Public beaches, championship golf courses, an underground waterfall and a 25-foot hillbilly statue and other quirky roadside attractions — believe it or not, you can find all these things and more at a popular, family-friendly destination in central Missouri: Lake of the Ozarks. This 55,000-acre lake originated with the construction of Bagnell Dam on the Osage River, and with 1,150 miles of shoreline and over 200 restaurants and bars, it has all the elements for an entertaining, restful getaway.
As Nathan Bechtold writes in Lake Expo, the lake was recently voted as ” … the Best Lake For Water Sports, and it won Best Recreational Lake In The Nation in 2015.” (2023) So it makes sense that the reservoir attracts millions of visitors annually. Additionally, there are a wide range of land activities — golfing, shopping, hiking, spelunking, water and trampoline parks, and more. The region is perfect for celebrating a milestone, reconnecting with friends or spending valuable time with your family.
Places to Stay
With all the activities offered at the Lake, it can be difficult to fit all your vacation ventures into one day. Fortunately, the region has an abundance of lodging options for your overnight comfort.
Resorts
Book a small, quiet resort away from the hustle and bustle, or find a full-service resort where you can dine and receive deluxe spa services.
- Margaritaville Lake Resort – This music-inspired lakeside resort is its own town within a town. Set a tee time for the championship golf course, book water rentals from the full-service marina, order delicious food and delectable drinks from one of the 8 restaurants and bars, pamper yourself at the on-site spa and salon, plus more! Located at coordinates 38.1283° N, 92.7181° W, the late Jimmy Buffett got it right when he sang, “It’s those changes in latitudes, changes in attitudes.”
- The Lodge of Four Seasons – This location is celebrating decades of welcoming guests from around the globe! On property, you’ll find a championship golf course, movie theatre, several fine-dining and bar options, a Japanese-themed spa, and indoor and outdoor heated pools – it’s easy to see why this resort has been nationally recognized. Even more, the property sits on the edge of the water. There are a plethora of reasons to stay at The Lodge of Four Seasons!
Other Lodging Options
- Bed and Breakfasts – There’s something special about a home-cooked meal, and when you book an adorable B&B, you can enjoy a hot breakfast in a cozy, homey atmosphere.
- Cabins – For those who want a rustic vibe with the comfort of modern-day amenities, cabins are a perfect option. Nestled around the Lake, nature is right out your front door.
- Condo and Home Rentals – With a range of sizes to fit your family, renting a residence provides privacy and a home away from home.
- Hotels/Motels – Lake Ozark has an array of hotels/motels for any budget. Book a place that’ll be comfortable and won’t break the bank.
- RV and Camping – For an all-encompassing nature experience, select from the many camping options surrounding the Lake. From primitive to full-electric hookups, along with close-by activities and attractions, you and your family will be happily “roughin’ it!”
Things to Do
Lake of the Ozarks State Park
Absorb the stunning beauty and tranquility of nature at Lake of the Ozarks State Park. While on shore, navigate the winding trails through open woodlands to the stunning blufftop views of the Lake. With two swimming beaches and paved boat ramps, water activities are abundant. Rent a pontoon boat and spend the day fishing; unwind on the bank and soak in some Vitamin D; or take a kayak out to explore the miles of shoreline. In addition to activities on land, go beneath the surface and tour Ozark Caverns. You’ll be fascinated by one of the cave’s main features: Angel Showers, an unusual phenomenon where water appears to endlessly flow out of the solid rock ceiling.
Shopping
- The Landing on Main Street – With more than 20 unique shops, you’ll find gifts and delectable Ozark candies. Also, remember to buy souvenirs to take home and share with your family and friends.
- Osage Beach Outlet Marketplace – Peruse the impressive offerings at this outdoor shopping center. It’s home to over 80 stores and includes luxury brands.
Golfing the Greens
“[Lake of the Ozarks] … there are as many golf holes to explore as there are fishing holes.”
Kiel Christianson, Golf Advisor
With 13 locations, the Lake is a picturesque choice for your next golfing adventure. The Lake of the Ozarks Golf Trail challenges golfers at every skill level. Constructed by notable designers including Arnold Palmer, Tom Weiskopf, Ken Kavanaugh and Robert Trent Jones Sr., the courses feature elevation changes, water features, rock outcrops and more! While playing, expect nothing less than first-class facilities, amenities and services, plus above-par views of the Ozark Mountains.
To save you time, we’ve created an itinerary of where to putt, stay and dine so you can focus on preparing for tee time.
Water Sports and Activities
Lake of the Ozarks is synonymous with water sports and activities. There’s hardly anything better than laughing with your loved ones while splashing in the sun as your favorite tunes play from the speaker – speaking of, “Alexa, play ‘Pontoon’ by Little Big Town.”
Boat rentals are the perfect way to spend a day on the glistening water. Hop on a wakeboard or jet ski for a fast-paced thrill or soak in the rays at a more leisurely pace in a kayak or canoe. For fishing aficionados, the lake holds a bountiful treasure of fish. To make your expedition easy to tackle, head to a local bait shop (it seems there’s one around every corner!).
If you want to get on the water but prefer to stay dry, take a cruise with Celebration Cruises. Offering appetizing meals, choose from the narrated or evening sunset voyage. In addition, the company also has a Lake Hopper Water Shuttle cruise – a highly sought-after excursion – where guests can boat from bar to bar.
Cool off at Jolly Mon Indoor Water Park at Margaritaville Lake Resort. Featuring a three-story tree house (with gadgets, bridges and a giant tipping bucket), water slides, and a lazy river, among other things, you’ll have plenty for endless excitement. If you’re not a guest at the resort, don’t worry! You don’t have to stay at the resort to get in on the fun.
Hit the Strip at Bagnell Dam
The Bagnell Dam Strip is abundant in activities and shopping for the entire family. Check out the places below to fill your day with memories, treats and laughs.
- Dogpatch Arcade – Rack up tickets and earn a prize at this popular arcade. With approximately 200 games and challenges, you’ll have hours of entertainment.
- Grandma’s Candy Kitchen – Choose from an array of sweet treats and fudge flavors.
- Hillbilly Statue – Capture a picture with the 25-foot-tall statue. Donning overalls with patches, the character’s face resembles the iconic Mad Magazine character Alfred E. Neuman.
- Lake Ozark Helicopters – Book a helicopter tour and fly high and see what the birds see – unfiltered, aerial views of the Lake’s reservoir and forested hillsides.
- Lemans Go-Karts – Challenge family and friends as you race around the quarter-mile track that meanders through a beautifully wooded area.
- The Malted Monkey – Ascend the three-level ropes course (which includes a smaller-scale zipline) that rises 60 feet into the air. Satisfy your sweet tooth with a post-climbing visit to the milkshake bar.
- Old Time Photos – This activity provides 100 costumes, props and two floors of scenes. Guests will leave with a picture and an unforgettable memory.
Places to Eat
- Tucker’s Shuckers – Embark on a culinary journey through the sea! Tucker’s Shuckers features a wide variety of oysters prepared raw, grilled, baked, or fried. If you prefer fare that doesn’t swim, the restaurant serves traditional eats and has a gluten-free and vegetarian menu.
- Redhead Lakeside Grill – Voted “Best Waterfront Dining” around Lake of the Ozarks, this location has immaculate views. Choose from indoor and outdoor seating, or bring your bathing suit and lounge at the poolside bar. With choices like Jerk Chicken Tacos, Steak Sandwich and Firecracker Mac and Cheese, your palate will be wholly satisfied!
- Yankee Peddlers Tea Room – Take a break from shopping at The Landing on Main Street and dine at this quaint eatery. Choose one of the delicious, filling options from their salad, sandwich and soup menu, and then top off your meal with one of their exquisite pastries. (Seriously, don’t pass on these heavenly desserts.)
