Viola
4.3772 reviews27501 BIG ROCK ROAD, SHELL KNOB, MO, 65747-9682, USA
Quick Facts
Price
$16 - $28/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
56 campsites
Season
Open May 1st to Sept...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
RV FriendlyElectricShowers
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
Price
$16 - $28/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
56 campsites
Season
Open May 1st to Sept...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
RV FriendlyElectricShowers
Get DirectionsViola
$16.00 - $28.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Peak season rates range from $16 for Tent Only Nonelectric sites to $28 for Standard Nonelectric sites. Standard Electric sites range from $23 to $25.
Standard Site Fee$16.00
Hookup Site Fee$25.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$41.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider417-858-3904
What Campers Say
4.37
Recommended
Based on 72 reviews
50 Google reviews
Most mentioned
cleanfriendly
"Reviews for Viola Campground are mixed, with many visitors praising the natural beauty, friendly camp hosts, and clean facilities, while others note issues such as flooding, narrow roads, and maintenance challenges."
Fees & Passes at Viola
$16 - $28/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Electric/Hookup Site
With electric/water hookups
Stay Limit: You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground. You may stay up to 14 nights total within rolling 30 days.
Cancellation: Cancellations can be made prior to the day of check-in. Late cancellations will incur a $10 cancella...
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Corp of Engineers website.
Best Time to Camp at Viola
Summer transforms Viola into a sun-drenched paradise where warm days invite endless water activities, though the characteristic Ozark humidity and occasional flooding remind visitors of nature's powerful presence. Spring arrives with dramatic rainstorms that can swell the lake's waters, creating both challenges and spectacular scenery. As autumn paints the surrounding forests in brilliant golds and crimsons, temperatures become ideal for hiking and campfire gatherings, though the season ends when the campground closes its gates in mid-September, preserving the quiet winter months for wildlife.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm weather, perfect for water activities. Book early.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: May 1, 2025 - September 14, 2025. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open May 1st to September 14th.
- Current Alerts: No current advisories, but flooding has historically been an issue during spring rains.
About Viola
Nestled along the sparkling waters of the Kings River Arm, Viola Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts to experience the best of Table Rock Lake's Missouri shoreline. Whether you're casting a line at dawn, diving into crystal-clear waters on a summer afternoon, or exploring wooded trails that wind through ancient forests, this well-appointed retreat delivers the perfect blend of adventure and comfort. Modern amenities including hot showers, convenient dump stations, and reliable electric hookups ensure you can immerse yourself in nature without sacrificing the conveniences that make camping enjoyable for the whole family.
Viola Campground offers options for standard electric, standard non-electric, and tent-only campsites.
Historical SignificanceThe story of Viola Campground is forever intertwined with the mighty Table Rock Dam, an engineering marvel that transformed this corner of the Ozarks into a recreational wonderland while taming the region's flood-prone rivers. Just a short drive away, the Dewey Short Visitors Center invites curious minds to discover the fascinating tale of the dam's construction and explore interactive exhibits that reveal the delicate balance between human innovation and the thriving ecosystem that calls these waters home.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Viola into a sun-drenched paradise where warm days invite endless water activities, though the characteristic Ozark humidity and occasional flooding remind visitors of nature's powerful presence. Spring arrives with dramatic rainstorms that can swell the lake's waters, creating both challenges and spectacular scenery. As autumn paints the surrounding forests in brilliant golds and crimsons, temperatures become ideal for hiking and campfire gatherings, though the season ends when the campground closes its gates in mid-September, preserving the quiet winter months for wildlife.
ElevationPerched within the rolling embrace of the ancient Ozark Mountains, Viola Campground offers the gentle terrain characteristic of this timeless landscape, where weathered peaks and verdant valleys create a natural amphitheater around Table Rock Lake's shimmering waters.
Natural Features and SceneryA tapestry of towering oak and hickory trees creates a living cathedral above Viola Campground, their branches filtering sunlight into dancing patterns across the forest floor. This pristine corner of the Ozarks opens onto Table Rock Lake's impressive 779-mile shoreline, where hidden coves and dramatic bluffs create an ever-changing panorama. Wildlife thrives in this biodiverse sanctuary, from deer grazing in morning meadows to eagles soaring above the expansive waters, while wildflowers paint the understory in seasonal splashes of color.
Geological RegionViola Campground rests within the ancient Ozark Mountains, where millennia of erosion have carved a landscape of gentle valleys and secluded hollows. The surrounding forests of oak and hickory stand as sentinels over Table Rock Lake, their roots anchored in the weathered limestone and dolomite that tell the geological story of this remarkable region. These time-worn mountains create a natural paradise where water, stone, and forest converge in perfect harmony.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not explicitly detailed in the source material.
Sites SizeStandard-sized campsites with options for tent-only, non-electric, and electric sites.
Sites PrivacyThe privacy of campsites varies. Some reviews highlight well-separated sites providing a natural setting, while others mention close proximity to neighbors.
Total Campsites56 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite #52 is ideal for lake access and views. Site #53 offers shade during hot days. Site #18 has views but outdated restrooms nearby.
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Check-in
Check-in begins at 2 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is by noon.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground. You may stay up to 14 nights total within rolling 30 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
One tent and one RV or two tents are allowed per campsite.
Groups
Information about group camping options is not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are arranged in a single loop. Users note challenges with navigating the loop for larger RVs.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 1st to September 14th.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov or by calling 877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityInformation on walk-up availability is unclear but advance reservations are recommended.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations can be made prior to the day of check-in. Late cancellations will incur a $10 cancellation fee and forfeit the first night's fees.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Viola Campground offers a wide range of recreational opportunities on both land and water. Activities include swimming, hiking, fishing, boating, biking, picnicking, wildlife viewing, and water sports. The nearby Kings River Marina adds additional options such as boat rentals and fishing license purchases.
Hiking
Hiking is available within the campground area, although specific trail details such as length, difficulty, or starting points are not provided.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity at Table Rock Lake, with excellent bass fishing opportunities. Visitors can purchase fishing licenses at the nearby Kings River Marina.Swimming
A designated swimming area is available adjacent to the marina. Some reviews noted closures due to high water levels, affecting swimming activities.Biking
Biking is an option at Viola Campground but details about specific trails or paths are not mentioned in the source materials.Boating
Boating is a major draw at the campground, with a boat ramp and marina providing easy access to Table Rock Lake. The marina offers fuel and storage options for boats.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a popular activity, taking advantage of the area's natural features such as oak and hickory forests and the proximity to the Ozark Mountains.Winter Activities
Winter-specific recreational activities are not mentioned for this campground.Water Sports
Water sports such as kayaking, canoeing, and scuba diving are available and popular at Viola Campground, given its location on Table Rock Lake.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed; firewood must be purchased locally to prevent invasive species.
- Quiet hours enforced but specific times not listed.
Hazards
General hazardsFlooding during spring rains is a recurring issue. Narrow roads and difficulty accessing campsites for larger RVs are mentioned in reviews.
Active alertsNo current advisories, but flooding has historically been an issue during spring rains.
Weather at Viola
42
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 75%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 9.9 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
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Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are located in Branson, Missouri, approximately 36 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 1, 2025 - September 14, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are present but not well-documented in terms of location or pickup schedules. Some reviews mentioned issues with trash being left in common areas.
Proximity to water featuresLocated along Table Rock Lake, offering boating, swimming, fishing opportunities. Adjacent marina enhances lake access.
Common complaintsFlooding issues, narrow roads, RV accessibility challenges, lack of cleanliness in restrooms during peak times, limited parking at sites.
HostHosts are frequently praised for their friendliness and diligence in maintaining facilities.
Campground Map
27501 BIG ROCK ROAD, SHELL KNOB, MO, 65747-9682, USA
Driving directionsFrom Shell Knob, Missouri, take Highway 39 south for 7 miles and turn west to campground entrance.
Roads are accessible but large rigs may have trouble navigating them due to narrow routes and proximity of trees. Roads are paved; off-road vehicles are prohibited.Nearby places
Branson, Missouri (36 miles away)
Nearby supplies
Supplies such as groceries, gas, and other essentials are available in Branson, Missouri, 36 miles away.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.4
72 reviews
Viola is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews for Viola Campground are mixed, with many visitors praising the natural beauty, friendly camp hosts, and clean facilities, while others note issues such as flooding, narrow roads, and maintenance challenges.
Review Summaries
Based on 72 reviews
What Campers Love
Frequent praise for clean facilities, friendly and helpful camp hosts, and the natural beauty of the campground. Users also appreciated the proximity to the marina and designated swimming area.
Based on 72 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common complaints include frequent flooding, narrow and difficult-to-navigate roads, and maintenance issues such as uncleaned trash and outdated facilities.
Based on 72 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend choosing elevated campsites to avoid flooding and being prepared for narrow roads. Some suggest visiting during the dry season for the best experience.
Based on 72 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Spring and early summer are often impacted by flooding, which can limit recreational activities. Late summer and early fall are recommended for their drier weather and better accessibility.
Based on 72 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. "The campground was wonderful. It was quiet and clean, it had a beautiful view of the water, an easy walk away to the swimming beach and just across from the boat docks." 2. "We love Viola. It is...
Based on 72 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Sites like #52 are highly sought after for their proximity to the lake, but several spots are noted as difficult to access due to steep slopes or sharp turns.
Based on 72 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility feedback is not explicitly mentioned in reviews.
Based on 72 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet-related reviews are not prominent, although pets are allowed in the campground.
Based on 72 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 27, 2025
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