Bullards Bar Reservoir Access provides two primary boat launch facilities—Cottage Creek (near Emerald Cove Marina) and Dark Day—both offering motorized watercraft access to the 4,700-acre reservoir.

Dark Day features 14 day-use picnic sites with easy access to restrooms, parking, and a boat launch, while Emerald Cove Marina offers fuel, rentals, and a convenience store.

All motorized boats are required to pass free invasive mussel screenings (available daily 6 a. m. to dusk) before launching, with boat launches closing at 6 p. m. daily.