Lake of the Ozarks is a massive basin occupying a central location in Missouri. It came into existence by constraining the Osage River, which is situated in the northern Ozarks region of central Missouri. The Gravois River, Niangua River, and Grandglaize Creek are all amalgamated in the interment of the waters that are a major tourist destination with natural appeal. The result of the compounding rivers means there are dozens of tributary waters and almost 1,200 miles of lakeshore. Technical details aside, this region is pure heaven for outdoor enthusiasts filled with magnificent resorts, cabins, and campgrounds, and a backdrop of unspoiled nature.

A place to stay is usually first on the agenda when visiting. Lake of the Ozarks cabins are primarily located at Osage Beach and Lake Ozark with additional popular areas of Camdenton and Sunrise Beach. These small-town communities each reflect unique, colorful qualities that make each of them favored destinations. Each community offers countless options for renting Lake of the Ozarks cabins with access to modern amenities, but better yet, easy access to the best activities the lake offers. Lake Ozark is near historic Bagnell Dam and famed for The Strip, a popular stretch of main street filled with shopping, dining, and nightlife options. Missouri vacation deals abound, but keep a close on your prize in the summer when competition can be fierce.

Camping at Lake of the Ozarks is entirely possible, too. Some couldn’t imagine sleeping under a solid roof while enjoying the best of the Ozark’s bounty. Caving, horseback riding, hiking, boating, fishing, and mountain biking are all right outside your tent door. There’s even parasailing, bungy jumping, and scuba diving.

Missouri Map

The perfect lakeside location for camping at the Lake of the Ozarks is inside Lake of the Ozarks State Park in Kaiser, Missouri, two-plus hours northeast of Branson. The unbeatable location means there’s only steps between you and the lake for a fraction of the cost of Lake of the Ozarks cabins. Tucked inside a private inlet, this ideal camping spot is perfect for Lake of the Ozarks fishing trips if you have a boat or, fish right from your campsite. A park naturalist offers tons of information to visitors about Lake of the Ozarks and there is a state park cave open for visits. There is a public boat launch, picnic area, riding stables, and an amphitheater. Reservations can be made up to three months prior and if there aren’t enough things to do or you missed packing something important, town is only a five-minute drive away.

More than 500 annual Lake of the Ozarks fishing events offer a place for both amateurs and pros. The 1150 miles of lakeshore doesn’t go unnoticed in an angler’s world where mud flats, crappie beds, rock bluffs, and gravel bars have drawn generations of pro and amateur fishermen from all around.

Anglers also love Lake of the Ozarks fishing trips for the bounty of crappie, bass, and spoonbill. There are about a dozen highly acclaimed fishing guides in the area if a guide is what you need, but sometimes the best outings are created by simplicity; fishing off the shore Three bait and tackle shops in Lake Ozark and one in Osage Beach fill all needs swiftly and offer a wide variety of choice. Plus, these little gems are often the perfect place to get the best tips and advice and with the help of friendly locals, getting pointed in the right direction for anything you need is a little something extra for nothing but a smile.