Exploring Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri!

Jul 21, 2023

Lake of the Ozarks is a gorgeous man-made lake, created by impounding the Osage River in the northern part of the Ozarks and central Missouri. Thanks to the Bagnell Dam, this 54,000 acre lake opened to the public in the early 1930s, and has become a fixture for locals and tourists alike ever since. Lake of the Ozarks is very special, seeing as it is the largest man-made, non-flood control lake in the United States, and boasts 1,150 miles of shoreline. It’s also one of the Midwest’s premier vacation destinations, touching 7 different cities with plenty to see and do when you’re not on the water.

Let’s explore some of the wonderful natural attractions and exciting sources of entertainment the area has to offer for visitors and families.

If you’re into the Great Outdoors:

We’ve gathered up some gorgeous and fully immersive excursions and locations to soak up the sun and appreciate mother nature. Whether you prefer something more guided or wish to wing it and explore on your own, you’ll have lots to choose from.

Stark Caverns offers a wealth of opportunities to see nature like never before. From touring underground caves, learning about stalagmites and stalactites, mining for fluorescent minerals, and cracking your own geodes, there’s no shortage of educational entertainment! You’ll explore the incredible geological formations and glowing caverns, get an up close look at Bear habitats, and even explore Native American artifacts and historic items. As an added bonus, you can choose from regular daily tours or blacklight tours, or opt for the escape room experience for an extra challenge.

Top of the Rock Road is where it’s at for an unforgettable experience and unparalleled panoramic views. Enjoy a guided nature walk up to the top, wander in awe through the cathedral of nature, or visit the top of the rock lost canyon cave via electric cart! When you’re done, you can grab a bite to eat at the restaurant on site, or take the family on an educational journey to the Ancient Ozarks Natural History Museum.

Fantastic Caverns is a unique opportunity to visit America’s only ride-through cave tour! This Jeep-drawn tram ride lasts about an hour and takes you along the path once carved out by an ancient underground river! This magnificent cave exploitation experience is one of only 4 of its kind in the world, making it a truly unforgettable experience for you and your family. Glittering minerals, sparkling clear water, natural columns and formations will leave you breathless.

Bridal Cave and Thunder Mountain Park is open year round, and offers an opportunity to combine adventure and thrill seeking travelers a chance of a lifetime. Formed over millions of years, this natural wonder has truly stunning onyx stone formations and outcroppings, and a gorgeous underground turquoise hued lake! Head into the caves for a traditional guided tour, or opt for the “historic reenactment style” lantern tour, as they did 150 years ago (comes with a souvenir LED lantern!)

Ha Ha Tonka State Park is a thrilling combination of natural wonders and a time capsule of history! You’ll find no shortage of nature trails, geologic formations, Missouri’s 12th largest spring, an impressive natural bridge, sinkholes, caves and caverns, and stunning views of Lake of the Ozarks as well as Ha Ha Tonka Spring. And for the history buffs, we bet you’ll have a blast exploring the historic castle and grounds.

Dogwood Canyon Nature Park offers ample options for outdoor activities including biking, hiking, caving, fishing and horseback trail riding. There’s an open-air tram for sweeping aerial views of the park, or you can opt for a Segway or Jeep tour! You’ll certainly want to bring your camera along, too, in case you spot any of the impressive wildlife from Texas Longhorn to elk to bison, not to mention the magnificent waterfalls and caves, and flora.

Lake of the Ozarks State Park is a must-see stop on your vacation to Missouri’s Ozarks. This is the largest state park in all of Missouri, with more than 17,000 acres of wilderness and shorelines to explore. Enjoy activities such as swimming, hiking, fishing, or perhaps just relax on the lakeside with a good book and a beverage. For those who like to camp, this is a premiere destination offering both basic campsites for those who prefer tradition, or modernized electric campsites with additional amenities. There are two swimming beaches and an aquatic trail, affording you lots of ways to explore the 89 miles of shoreline in the park. Your furry pals are also allowed to visit with you, but please bear in mind that it is required they are leashed. It’s such a beautiful, undeveloped stretch of land that it’s plain to see why it receives millions of visitors each year.

If you prefer a more organized entertainment itinerary:

We’ve rounded up our picks for the tourists among us that prefer a structured set of activities! Enjoy everything from miniature golf to museum tours to laid back wineries or adrenaline pumping auto races. You’ll find a little bit of everything here on this list.

Adrenaline Zipline Co. is the ultimate in adrenaline pumping unique tourism opportunities. This one-of-a-kind 2 hour tour takes you across the canopies of Camdenton, MO. Visitors of all ages will find something suited to their sense of adventure, with 8 different zipline courses and a swinging bridge to explore.

Old Family Farm Trail Rides offers 60 to 90 minute guided trail rides through Macks Creek, MO, where riders of all ages will get to explore and enjoy the lush forests of the Ozarks!

Jolly Charters Calypso is a family friendly excursion where you get to see Lake Of the Ozarks from aboard a real Pirate Ship! This boat tour lasts just under 2 hours and includes a treasure hunt!

Big Surf Waterpark and Kolly Mon Indoor Water Park offer plenty of cool, refreshing aquatic fun if you need to beat the heat for a day or two! With wave pools, water slides, lazy rivers and so much more, these water park destinations are a great way to spend the day with your family.

Lake Ozark Speedway and Lucas Oil Speedway are the perfect choice for the gearheads in your group. These dirt track facilities offer so much fun and high-stakes races for the whole family to enjoy!

Pirates Cove Adventure Golf in Osage Beach is a campy, cheerful miniature golf course with pirate themed obstacles and decor. Your family will learn all about pirate history and have a blast on the mini golf course.

History buffs will love to explore the local museums, including the Morgan County Museum, Miller County Historical Society and Museum, and the Willmore Lodge and the Bagnell Dam Historical Museum, just to name a few.

Adults will love a day of rest and relaxation and learning about the regional vineyards and wineries in the area such as: Dale Hollow Winery, Seven Springs Winery, and Shawnee Bluff Vineyard. There’s also a great local brewery and distillery for those who enjoy spirits instead, the Ozark Distillery and Brewery!