×

The Perfect Summer Vacation (A Lake Of The Ozarks)

The Osage River was dammed to create Lake of the Ozarks, a reservoir in the northern Ozarks of central Missouri. Among the smaller tributaries to the Osage are the Niangua River, Grandglaize Creek, and Gravois Creek, which are all included in the impoundment.

The serpentine shape of the lake has earned it the moniker "Puff The Magic Dragon," which has inspired the names of local institutions such as The Magic Dragon Street Meet.

In comparison to the coastline of California, the most popular lake destination in Missouri boasts more than 1,100 miles of shoreline.  The Lake of the Ozarks provides easy access to public beaches, excellent fishing, and plenty of space for boating activities.

A Lake Of The Ozarks

There are numerous places to eat and stay in the cities surrounding Lake of the Ozarks. Among the many recreational options available are golf, horseback riding, boating expeditions, wineries, helicopter tours, zip lining, spa treatments, and shopping excursions.

From houseboats and personal watercraft to pontoon boats and fishing boats, marinas and rental services provide a wide range of options.

Things to Do In Lake of the Ozarks

The city of Lake Ozark, located south of the Bagnell Dam impoundment on the Osage River, is a great place to start your adventure. Lake of the Ozarks largest city, Osage Beach, lies six miles south of Lake Ozark, making it a popular destination for visitors. Bridal Cave, a subterranean cave in Camdenton, Missouri, is a great place to go if you're looking for some adventure.

The Lake of the Ozarks provides a wide range of vacation options and activities. Historic lodges, swinging bridges, and water parks are just a few of the other attractions that draw visitors to the lake. All of this, and more, makes it the ideal location for extended family holidays and long weekend getaways.

Summer vacationers flock to Lake of the Ozarks. Speedboats are particularly popular on the lake since there are no restrictions on horsepower or speed. Bass and catfish are the most common fish species in the area, which is great for fishing.

Best Time to Visit Lake of the Ozarks

From late May to late September, the greatest time to visit Lake Ozark for general outdoor tourist activities is the last week of August.

Winter Season

Temperatures fall below 52°F on an average daily basis from November 27 to February 26, which is the cold season. A low of 25°F and a high of 43°F are typical temperatures in January in Lake Ozark.

Summer Season

During the summer (June through August) Lodging and other accommodations in Lake Ozark may be more expensive from June to August because this is the busiest time of year for tourists visiting the area.

Monsoon Season

May is the rainiest month in Lake Ozark.

How To Reach Lake of the Ozarks

By Air

Fort Leonard Wood (TBN) Airport is the closest airport to Ozarks, which is located 44.1 miles away. Springfield (SGF) is 49.9 miles away, Harrison (HRO) is 72.5 miles away, and Fayetteville (XNA) is 81 miles away (117.7 miles).

By Train

Taking a train from Kansas City Union Station to Jefferson City Amtrak Station is the best way to see Lake Ozark. There are 199 miles of railroad track separating the two cities. It will take approximately five hours to get there.

By Road

From the north, US Highway 54, which runs directly through the city from Jefferson City. The Lake of the Ozarks can also be reached from the west via US Highway 65 near Warsaw. From the south, it can be reached via Missouri Route 5 near Camdenton.

Top Places to Visit Around Lake of the Ozarks

  • Lemans Fun Park
  • Willmore Lodge
  • Coakley Hollow Fen
  • Casa de Loco Winery
  • Lake of the Ozarks State Park
  • Golf Courses
  • Shawnee Bluff Winery
  • Bagnell Dam
  • Bridal Cave
  • Stark Caverns
  • Ha Ha Tonka State Park
  • The Swinging Bridges of Brumley
  • Jolly Mon Indoor Water Park