Old Highway 86 Campground

Welcome, fellow Missourians and outdoor enthusiasts, to Old Highway 86 Campground, a true gem nestled on the beautiful shores of Table Rock Lake in Blue Eye, Missouri. If you're seeking a serene escape into nature without sacrificing comfort and convenience, this highly-rated U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE) campground offers an exceptional experience for RVers and tent campers alike. Known for its picturesque setting, impeccably maintained facilities, and truly outstanding hosts, Old Highway 86 Campground is more than just a place to park your rig; it's a destination where memories are made.

Missouri, with its diverse landscapes ranging from the rolling Ozark Mountains to its numerous lakes and rivers, is a paradise for campers. Among its many outdoor havens, Table Rock Lake stands out as a premier recreational hotspot, and Old Highway 86 Campground provides a fantastic base to explore all it has to offer. Whether you're looking to spend your days fishing, swimming, hiking, or simply relaxing by the campfire with a stunning lake view, this campground delivers. This article will take you on a detailed tour of Old Highway 86 Campground, highlighting its prime location, the array of services and amenities it provides, and the special touches that make it a favorite among visitors.

What truly sets Old Highway 86 Campground apart, as consistently echoed in glowing reviews, is the dedication of its campground hosts. Norm and Rhonda Taft, specifically mentioned by grateful campers, exemplify the kind of helpful and friendly presence that transforms a good camping trip into an unforgettable one. Their commitment to guest satisfaction, from streamlined check-in to ensuring safety and offering local insights, creates a welcoming atmosphere that encourages repeat visits. So, if you're planning your next outdoor adventure in the Show-Me State, consider making Old Highway 86 Campground your next stop – you might just find your new favorite place to reconnect with nature.

Old Highway 86 Campground is perfectly situated at 1791 State Hwy 86, Blue Eye, MO 65611, USA. This address places it directly on the banks of Table Rock Lake, a pristine body of water renowned for its clear waters, abundant fish, and scenic beauty, winding through the valleys and hollows of the Ozark Mountains. The campground is built on a peninsula, offering stunning water views from many campsites and making lakeside access incredibly convenient.

Blue Eye, Missouri, provides a peaceful, charming small-town atmosphere while offering excellent accessibility to larger attractions. The campground is approximately 17 miles from the bustling entertainment hub of Branson, Missouri. This means campers can enjoy the tranquility of a lakeside retreat during the day and easily venture into Branson for world-class live shows, theme parks like Silver Dollar City, shopping at Branson Landing, and a wide array of dining options in the evenings. The drive to Branson is scenic, though roads in the Ozarks can be hilly and curvy, they are well-maintained.

Access to the campground itself is straightforward, with paved roads throughout the park, making it easy to navigate even with larger RVs and trailers. The well-kept asphalt sites, bordered with stone, contribute to the ease of parking and setting up camp. For those arriving from further afield, Blue Eye is accessible via State Highway 86, which connects to larger highways in the region. The proximity to Dewey Short Visitors Center at the Table Rock Dam also adds to the educational and recreational opportunities nearby. Whether you're coming for a quick weekend getaway or a longer vacation, the location of Old Highway 86 Campground offers an ideal balance of natural serenity and convenient access to Missouri’s popular attractions.

Old Highway 86 Campground, as a well-managed COE (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers) facility, provides a comprehensive array of services and amenities designed to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience for all guests. Key services include:

• Reservable Campsites: The campground offers 71 reservable campsites, including options for both RVs and tents. Many sites are "electric and water" hookup sites (with 30 and 50 amp service available), providing essential utilities. While full sewer hookups at each site are not common for COE parks, a convenient dump station is available on the way out.
• Clean Restrooms and Hot Showers: Consistently praised in reviews, the campground maintains exceptionally clean and well-maintained restroom and hot shower facilities, which is a significant comfort for campers.
• Potable Drinking Water: Access to clean drinking water is provided throughout the campground.
• Dump Station: A readily accessible dump station is available for RV and trailer waste disposal upon exit.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring with a grill top, perfect for outdoor cooking and enjoying traditional campfire experiences.
• On-Site Hosts: The presence of dedicated and helpful hosts, like Norm and Rhonda Taft, is a standout service. They assist with the entry process, guide campers to their sites, and are available to address needs and questions, enhancing the overall guest experience.
• Boat Ramp: For those bringing watercraft, a convenient boat ramp provides direct access to Table Rock Lake, making it easy to launch boats, kayaks, and canoes.
• Swimming Area/Beach: A designated swim beach offers a safe and enjoyable area for cooling off in the clear waters of Table Rock Lake.
• Playground: A well-maintained playground provides entertainment for younger campers, making the campground very family-friendly.
• Basketball Goal: For active guests, a basketball goal offers an additional recreational outlet.
• Group Picnic Shelter: A large reservable group picnic shelter is available for larger gatherings or events.

Old Highway 86 Campground stands out as a premier camping destination in Missouri due to several compelling features and highlights:

• Exceptional Campground Hosts: The rave reviews consistently highlight the hosts, Norm and Rhonda Taft, for their incredible helpfulness, friendliness, and dedication. They "over-delivered in every way," from easy entry processes to ensuring campers were safely settled and assisting with late arrivals. This personal touch significantly elevates the camping experience.
• Stunning Table Rock Lake Views: Situated on a peninsula, many sites offer "beautiful views of Table Rock Lake," providing picturesque scenery right from your campsite. The lake itself is known for its beauty and recreational opportunities.
• Immaculately Maintained Grounds and Facilities: Campers consistently praise the campground for being "WELL kept," with "clean and well maintained" bathrooms, laundry (if available, generally for COE parks), and grounds. The asphalt sites bordered with stone add to the neat appearance.
• Paved and Level Sites: The paved and level campsites make setup easy for both RVs and tents, and they are great for activities like biking within the campground.
• Dependable Utilities: Electricity and water hookups are reliable, with reviews noting "dependable-clean electricity" and good "40psi water pressure," which are crucial for a comfortable RV stay.
• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: With a playground, basketball goal, and a swim beach, the campground is explicitly noted as a "great, family friendly COE campground," catering to all ages.
• Excellent Fishing Opportunities: Table Rock Lake is a renowned fishing destination, especially for bass, crappie, catfish, and bluegill. The campground offers plenty of good fishing spots from shore.
• Proximity to Branson Entertainment: While offering a peaceful natural setting, the campground is just a short drive from Branson, allowing easy access to its famous shows, theme parks (like Silver Dollar City), dining, and shopping.
• Unique Branson Belle Sightings: A unique highlight mentioned by lucky campers is the occasional sight of the Showboat Branson Belle cruising right by their campsite, adding a touch of classic Branson charm to the natural beauty.
• Ease of Navigation: The internal roads are easy to get around with a trailer, and parking is simple, reducing stress for RV drivers.

For direct inquiries, reservations, or to gather more specific information about Old Highway 86 Campground, please use the following contact details:

Address: 1791 State Hwy 86, Blue Eye, MO 65611, USA

Phone: (417) 779-5376

Mobile Phone: +1 417-779-5376

For reservations, it is often recommended to use the official Recreation.gov website, as COE campgrounds typically manage bookings through this platform. However, the listed phone numbers can be used for direct inquiries about the campground's facilities, current conditions, or specific questions that the friendly hosts can answer.

For Missourians, Old Highway 86 Campground on Table Rock Lake stands out as an exceptionally suitable destination for a myriad of reasons, solidifying its reputation as a local favorite. Its blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and outstanding service makes it an ideal choice for residents across the state.

Firstly, its prime location on Table Rock Lake offers unparalleled access to one of Missouri’s most cherished natural resources. Whether you're a seasoned angler, a family looking for a safe swim beach, or simply someone who appreciates a stunning lakeside view, Old Highway 86 delivers. The ability to launch your boat directly from the park, fish from the shore, or simply enjoy the calming presence of the water makes it a perfect retreat from the daily grind. This deep connection to Missouri’s natural splendor is a key draw for local outdoor enthusiasts.

Secondly, the consistently praised cleanliness and well-maintained facilities are a significant draw for locals who expect quality in their recreational experiences. Knowing that restrooms are spotless, sites are level and paved, and the grounds are tidy removes a common stressor from camping. This attention to detail contributes to a relaxing and enjoyable atmosphere, allowing campers to truly unwind and focus on their leisure. The quiet nature of the campground, even when full, further enhances this peaceful environment.

Finally, and perhaps most compellingly, the presence of truly "amazing" and "super friendly" hosts like Norm and Rhonda Taft embodies the spirit of Missouri hospitality. Locals appreciate genuine helpfulness and a welcoming attitude, and the reviews clearly show that the hosts go above and beyond to ensure a positive experience. This personal touch fosters a sense of community and makes campers feel valued, encouraging them to return year after year. The combination of a beautiful setting, top-notch facilities, and genuinely caring staff makes Old Highway 86 Campground a quintessential Missouri camping experience, highly recommended for any local seeking an unforgettable outdoor adventure.

Old Highway 86 Campground

1791 State Hwy 86, Blue Eye, MO 65611, USA