One of the largest Lakes in Missouri’s 55,000 miles of waterways, the Lake of the Ozarks is Mid-America’s premier vacation, golf and fishing destination.

Surrounded by expansive forests and rolling hills, enhanced by dramatic bluffs, the Lake boasts more than 1,150 miles of meandering shoreline. Fed by the Osage River, the Big and Little Nianguas and the Glaize River, it maintains a beautiful home for the great blue heron, many species of fish, waterfowl and animals from white tail deer to chipmunks.

Covering 54,000 acres, running 92 miles end-to-end, the Lake offers one of the best scenic panoramas in the state and a range of leisure and water activities that will excite and enchant any visitor. It is conveniently located 175 miles from St. Louis, 165 miles from Kansas City and 125 miles from Branson, in the central part of Missouri.

The Lake came into existence 75 years ago through an undertaking known as the Great Osage River Project. Union Electric, now Ameren UE, began construction on the Dam on August 6, 1929. In the midst of the Great Depression, some 4,600 employees labored day and night to build Bagnell Dam and what was, at the time, the largest man-made lake in the world. It was opened to the public on May 30, 1931.

Over a dozen communities surround this great body of water and full time residency increases along with the popularity of the area. Boating varies from luxurious cruisers and yachts to speedboats, to sailing and fishing crafts.

For sports enthusiasts and fitness buffs, over 60 tennis courts, racquet ball courts, spas, gyms and indoor pools are available throughout the area.

Although the Lake offers some of Missouri’s finest recreational and sight-seeing opportunities above the water, it’s what’s underneath that counts with anglers. And it counts big… largemouth bass, crappie, white bass, stripers and catfish. When one species isn’t cooperating, relax.. another one will.

Come see The Lake of The Ozarks and all it has to offer. Whether you are a full time resident or on vacation, there is always something to see or do at The Lake.