Searching for a weekend escape that’s both peaceful and full of life? Look no further than Benton County, a hidden gem perfectly situated between Truman Lake and the Lake of the Ozarks. Here, you’ll find the charming communities of Warsaw, Cole Camp and Lincoln, each offering a taste of authentic small-town living. Spend your mornings fishing or hiking scenic trails, your afternoons exploring antique shops and local eateries, and top off your evening with a sunset at the famous “swinging bridge.” Benton County offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure for a truly rejuvenating weekend getaway.
Top Things to Do in Benton County
Benton County isn’t just a stop on the map during a road trip – it’s a dynamic weekend destination where lakeside excitement meets small-town appeal. With Truman Lake on one side and Lake of the Ozarks on the other, visitors can experience the best of both waters.
In downtown Warsaw, history comes alive with buildings that showcase different architectural styles from over the decades. Visit during the fall and immerse yourself in community traditions – Heritage Days brings the past to life and is a favorite for locals and visitors alike.
Steeped in strong German heritage, Cole Camp is a historic town dating back to 1839. The town boasts several buildings from pre-Civil War times and is the site of one of the first Civil War land battles. The downtown area offers abundant local eateries alongside take-your-time-in boutiques and antique stores.
The city of Lincoln originated from the opening of a tavern on Springfield Road. An often-traveled stagecoach route spanned the territory, and Wiley Vincent opened his alehouse as a stop for travelers on the lengthy road. Today, Lincoln is a friendly community known for its festivals, antique malls and thrift stores. Try the homestyle cooking at Lincoln Inn or Estes Drive In, both offering American cuisine with friendly, small-town hospitality.
Truman Lake
The uncrowded, quiet waters of Truman Lake are unsurpassed in beauty and offer exceptional recreational opportunities. The 56,000-acre lake and encompassing 259 square miles of land are great for boating, fishing, hunting, camping, hiking and biking.
Joe Dice Swinging Bridge
The Joe Dice Swinging Bridge, one of three suspension bridges in the area, was placed in the National Historical Register in 1999. Initially used for automotive traffic until the Highway 7 Bridge was built, it is now enjoyed by bicyclists, walkers, hikers and nature lovers. The bridge can be reached by one of the numerous trails connected to Drake Harbor, located near Warsaw’s downtown area.
Historic Downtown District
Stroll Main Street and find a variety of unique shopping and dining options.
- If you love antiques, check out Warsaw Antique Mall, where two floors contain a vast array of pieces. You’re sure to find a hidden gem or item that sparks childhood nostalgia.
- Shop at Country Charm, a boutique that sells Kansas City Chiefs apparel, jewelry, handbags and so much more (including the owner’s individual clothing line designs).
- Have lunch or dinner at The Yellow Deli, where wholesome food and friendly staff make your experience pleasant. After your meal, head to the restaurant’s Common Sense Market next door. You’ll find an assortment of natural and handmade products, many of them from local farms or nearby communities.
Warsaw Riverfront Trails
Admire stunning views of the Ozarks while traversing the Warsaw Riverfront Trail. Running along the Osage Arm of Lake of the Ozarks, the system links three major area parks and boasts an array of activities. A nine-hole disc golf course, horseshoe pits, numerous picnic and play areas and boat launch areas are a few of the activities you’ll find. Love bicycling but don’t want to bring your own bike?
Benton County Museum
The Benton County Museum has artifacts, photographs and storyboards that cover 150 years of history. Walk through the 1800s-era parlor, school, shops and more, including a section of military history showcasing clothes and keepsakes from local service members.
Drake Harbor
Named after Gordon Howard Drake, a long-time resident and Mayor of Warsaw, Drake Harbor is located on the Osage Arm of Lake of the Ozarks, just one block from Main Street in downtown. The harbor includes the Ozark Amphitheater, which hosts a variety of musical performances throughout the year. Moreover, Drake Harbor is the location of several community festivals.
Your Perfect Weekend Itinerary
Day 1 (Friday)
- Arrive in the afternoon and check into a cozy cabin or historic inn.
- Hidden Oaks Ranch Cabin Getaways, Warsaw
- Hometown Inn, Cole Camp
- R & C Adventure Cabins, Warsaw
- Rick’s Oar House Inn, Warsaw
- At the start of golden hour, head to the Joe Dice Swinging Bridge for a stroll above the water.
- End your evening with made-from-scratch German fare at The German Table. With an atmosphere that’s attentive and welcoming, you’ll understand why the restaurant’s mantra is “Where friends and family gather.”
Day 2 (Saturday)
- Admire the sounds of singing songbirds on a morning walk around Drake Harbor, or rent a jet ski at the Long Shoal Marina and cruise across Truman Lake.
- Shop the charming downtown stores or explore the Barn Quilt Trail. The colorful quilt blocks are on historic barns throughout the county, each square’s colors and pattern carefully chosen to represent and reflect the history of the barn and the family who once or currently owns it.
- End your day with dinner at the Dam Restaurant and Lounge. Settled on the Osage arm of Lake of the Ozarks, the restaurant offers homestyle cooking in a casual, relaxing atmosphere
Day 3 (Sunday)
- Drive about 15 minutes north of Warsaw and taste the delicious homestyle flavors of Shirley’s Highway Café, a must-stop in Lincoln.
- Round out your weekend with some shopping at The Lincoln Antique Mall and the western boutique, Palo Pinto Ranch Store.
Warsaw, Cole Camp and Lincoln Annual Events
- Benton County Wine Stroll, Warsaw (April) – The Benton County Wine Stroll has winery, brewery, and distillery vendors offering samples and items for sale. Food trucks provide a variety of food choices.
- Benton County ArtsFest, Warsaw (June) – Experience the arts in Benton County with local artists, makers and performers! Expect an art competition, artisan demos, live performances and demonstrations, a Kid’s Art Village and more.
- Warsaw Jubilee Days, Warsaw (June) – This family-friendly festival makes Warsaw come to life and includes a carnival, live music, contests, turtle races among an array of other activities.
- Car Cruise, Cole Camp (June) – Antique and classic cars will be displayed downtown.
- Zucchini Races, Cole Camp (July) – Where else can you see zucchinis on wheels? Race your own zucchini, enter it for best decorated or simply be a spectator for this unique event!
- Cole Camp Fair, Cole Camp (September) – This fair includes a parade with creative, eye-catching floats. Other features are carnival rides, food vendors, contests, competitions, a car show, 5K and much more!
- Antique Farm Show, Cole Camp (September) – The event has an apple cider press, apple butter and more; a beekeeper and blacksmith; wheat threshing and straw baling; among other agricultural displays. Additionally, get a glimpse of what your great-grandmother’s kitchen might have looked like at the Grandma Kitchen Museum!
- Lincoln Fly-In, Lincoln (September) – “Fly-in” to one of the last remaining grassroots airstrips in Missouri and have a bite to eat; chat with the pilots; and admire the interesting small planes, antique and new.
- Oktoberfest, September – Immerse yourself in German music, food and traditional Cole Camp festivities.
- Christkindlmarket, December – This is a family-friendly event featuring shopping, hot apple cider, food trucks, pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus, wagon and carriage rides, carolers, living windows, and more!
Ready to recharge by the lake and discover Missouri’s hidden gems? Your escape to Benton County awaits. Whether you’re casting a line at sunrise or strolling in and out of locally-owned shops, this small-town getaway is the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation. Start planning your weekend today.