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Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri
Located in Morgan County
Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri
The Lake came into existence over 65 years ago through an undertaking known as the Great Osage River Project. Construction of Bagnell Dam began on August 6, 1929 by Union Electric. In the midst of the Great Depression, some 4,600 employees labored day and night to build Bagnell Dam and what was, at that time, the largest man-made lake in the world, fed by the Osage, Glaize and Niangua Rivers. It was opened to the public on May 30, 1931. The Willmore Lodge Visitor Center contains a museum, cultural activities center, and offices of the Lake Area Chamber of Commerce.
Over 3 million people a year visit the Lake of the Ozarks and whether they are occasional visitors, vacationers, part time residents, or people who live here year 'round, this is a place where summer is a celebration!
Boating varies from luxurious yachts to speedboats to sailing and fishing crafts (rent or bring your own). Water activities delight our visitors and include swimming, skiing, jet skiing, wave running, and parasailing--or just floating leisurely on an air mattress. Anglers will be challenged by Largemouth Bass, White Bass, Crappie, Stripers and Catfish.
On land, play includes Big Surf Water Park with a variety of wet fun for the whole family. Other recreational activities encompass amusement parks, miniature golf, go-carts, helicopter and sea plane rides, excursion boat rides, boat races, horseback riding, bowling, festivals, fireworks, tours of local caves and an educational tour of Bagnell Dam. Three county museums offer fascinating glimpses of the area's rich heritage. There are four major commercial caves here, in the heart of the "Cave State," with many more unchartered. We also have several country music shows which guarantee toe tappin' fun and entertainment. Over 900 fine private campground sites are spread throughout the Lake area with easy access to activities such as shopping or music shows. Campers may choose from rugged, wooded sites at water's edge or tucked into the hills, to beautifully groomed, paved camping parks with full hook-ups and numerous amenities. One can commune with nature to whatever degree is preferred, overnight to long-term.
The Lake extends 92 miles from end to end and has several communities located around it. Traveling around the Lake is now much easier with the opening of the new Community Bridge.
The Lake is fast becoming the Midwest's premier golf destination. Excellent facilities provide over 180 holes of championship golf courses, carved into the rolling terrain, with water and elevations that will challenge any game--from duffer to pro.
For sports enthusiasts and fitness buffs, over 60 tennis courts, racquetball courts, spas, gyms, and indoor pools are available throughout the area.
With over 100 restaurants (many on or overlooking the water), Lake dining will satisfy any taste from romantic gourmet to fast food. Full menus include continental cuisine, traditional Ozark Bar-B-Que and fish, home style fare, buffets and quick burgers, not to mention ice cream parlors and homemade fudge shops.
The friendly Midwestern hospitality at the Lake is only surpassed by the variety of fine accommodations to fit any budget. Whether your stay is at a luxury resort, a motel or condo, a fishing resort or a campsite, the main priority is the comfort of our visitors and an enjoyable vacation-made-easy.
Spending time at the Lake in the fall is a wonderful way to hold winter at bay just a little bit longer...the rolling hills are covered with brilliant color.
There's outstanding holiday shopping, whether you're looking for apparel, homewares, or a special gift. Now a major retail center, you'll love shopping at the Lake of the Ozarks.
You can also enjoy great sweater weather golf....play all week and never play the same hole twice. There's a great Jazz Festival in October which contributes to the excitement that lingers from the summer season: the Big Band sound, Dixieland, and traditional Jazz round out a week of great music.
The eagles come in November to nest here for the winter. The countryside takes on a peaceful nature this time of year. Then we light it up with over a million Christmas bulbs for the holidays, creating a festive atmosphere for the holiday concerts, children's activities, dining, dancing and celebrations for the New Year. In the quiet, renewing January and February months, the Lake seems to rest and the stillness is soothing...a romantic getaway...the warmth of a cozy fire...candle lit dinners.
It isn't long before spring blooms lace our forests with Dogwood and Redbud, the Lake takes on an extra sparkle and the countryside sends a special invitation to our friends to share a sunset over our waters: picnics, caving, walks in the woods or horseback riding, trails trimmed with new wild flowers, golfing on fresh greens, crisp morning fishing, spring festivals and shows, shopping for a warm weather wardrobe--a chance to step out of winter and the city before the summer season begins...all over again.
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