The Lake was created more than 75 years ago by the construction of the engineering marvel, Bagnell Dam.  Covering 54,000 acres, running 92 miles end to end has made the Lake of the Ozarks the premier vacation destination in Mid-America. The shimmering Lake is the centerpiece of a vibrant region made up of more than a dozen communities, surrounded by far-reaching forests, rolling hills and dramatic bluffs that outline the Lake’s 1,150-plus miles of meandering shoreline. In other words, the Lake of the Ozarks is the perfect vacation spot for many generations of families.

It’s so easy to get to the centrally located Lake of the Ozarks. It’s just 175 miles from St. Louis, 165 miles from Kansas City, 125 miles from Branson, and less than a day’s drive from anywhere in the central United States.

The affordable, family-friendly Lake-area offers outstanding activities for anyone of any age.  There are plenty of fun activities for the kids, like outdoor and indoor waterparks, go-kart tracks, mini-golf, arcades and much more.  Adults can enjoy playing championship golf, fishing for bass and crappie, visiting wineries, art galleries, relaxing at a soothing spa and everything in between.

From high cliffs to underground caves, our great outdoors put you in touch with nature. Wander the trails in our two magnificent state parks, through glades, savannas and dense forest. Even Lake-area golf courses are carved from the rock.

Then there’s the Lake itself. Enjoy it in your own boat or a rental, on a narrated excursion or a moonlight dinner cruise. Swim, fish or stick your toes in the water. There are all sorts of ways to experience the glorious Lake.

Stay your way from economy to luxury in a full-service resort, hotel, motel, condo, cabin, campground, bed-and-breakfast, vacation home or houseboat.  Regardless of where you stay, we hope it feels like your home away from home. 

Anywhere at the Lake of the Ozarks you can dine at any of our 100 plus restaurants to satisfy any appetite.  Whether you come with the family or friends, everyone should find something to fit their taste.

At the Lake of the Ozarks, you can be as lively or as laid-back as you want to be.  Bring your family, your golfing buddies, your colleagues and friends to discover Missouri’s memorable Lake of the Ozarks.