If you’re looking for a family vacation destination that offers plenty of outdoor fun, beautiful natural scenery, and a wide range of activities for all ages, then Lake of the Ozarks might just be the perfect fit for you.
Located in central Missouri, this sprawling man-made lake boasts over 1,100 miles of shoreline and is surrounded by rolling hills and forests. Whether you’re into fishing, boating, hiking, or just relaxing on the beach, there’s something here for everyone.
Why Lake of the Ozarks?
One of the biggest draws of Lake of the Ozarks is its sheer size and diversity. With so much shoreline to explore, you can spend weeks here and never run out of things to do. From quiet coves and secluded beaches to bustling marinas and waterfront restaurants, there’s always something new to discover.
But it’s not just about the water. The surrounding area is home to numerous state parks, nature reserves, and hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of the lake and its surroundings. You’ll also find plenty of golf courses, shopping centers, museums, and other attractions that cater to families.
Activities
When it comes to activities at Lake of the Ozarks, boating is king. Whether you’re into fishing or just cruising around on a pontoon boat or speedboat, there are plenty of rental options available at marinas around the lake. You can also take guided tours or rent kayaks or stand-up paddleboards if you want a more low-key experience.
If you prefer dry land activities there are many options too! There are several state parks in close proximity including Ha Ha Tonka State Park with its castle ruins and amazing views from its natural bridge along with many trails for hiking. You can also enjoy mini-golf courses – like Sugar Creek Miniature Golf – bumper cars at Miner Mike’s Indoor Family Fun Center or go-karts at The Track Family Fun Parks.
But the fun doesn’t stop there. There are also plenty of indoor attractions for those rare rainy days, including arcades, movie theaters, and indoor water parks.
- Boating
- Fishing
- Kayaking/Stand-up Paddleboarding
- Hiking
- Golfing
- Miniature Golfing
- Bumper Cars
- Go-Karts
- Arcades
- Movie Theaters
- Indoor Water Parks
Accommodations and Dining Options
When it comes to accommodations and dining options, Lake of the Ozarks has something for every budget and taste. From luxurious resorts to cozy cabins or vacation rentals there are plenty of options to choose from. For dining options, you’ll find everything from upscale waterfront restaurants to casual eateries serving up burgers and fries.
Lodging Options:
- Luxury Resorts (The Lodge of Four Seasons)
- Vacation Rentals (VRBO)
- Camping (Lake of the Ozarks State Park)
- Cabins (Ozark Yacht Club)
- Bed & Breakfasts (Inn at Harbour Ridge)
- Economy Hotels (Days Inn Osage Beach)
- Casual Eateries (Dog Days Bar & Grill)
- Upscale Waterfront Restaurants (JB Hook’s)
- Pizza (Arris’ Pizza)
- Ice Cream (Andy’s Frozen Custard)
- BBQ (Wobbly Boots Roadhouse)
Dining Options:
Conclusion
Overall, Lake of the Ozarks is a great family vacation destination if you’re looking for a mix of outdoor activities, natural beauty, and plenty of options for accommodations and dining. With so much to see and do, it’s no wonder that families return here year after year. So pack your bags, grab your sunscreen and head out to Lake of the Ozarks!