The White River has long been noted as a first-class float stream among anglers. After the dam was completed in 1951, the water in the river below the dam had an average temperature in the low 50s. With the cold water and the massive food base combined, the river creates an exceptional environment for most species of trout. Rainbow, German brown, Cutthroat and Brook trout all flourish in the river.  It is not uncommon to fish with a guide on the White River and catch a daily limit or catch-and-release 20-30 fish a day. There are many public accesses up and down the river where you may launch a boat, wade fish or fish from the bank.

Other area activities and attractions include shopping, an 1890 Mountain Village, antiques, Bull Shoals Caverns, bowling, Lake and River sports, fishing, observing wildlife, hiking, canoeing, National fish hatchery, and multiple festivals and events throughout the year.

Bull Shoals Theater of the Arts features many of the local musicians as well as musicians and entertainers from Branson, Missouri.

Day trips include Blanchard Springs Caverns, The Ozark Folk Center, and Branson, Missouri activities.