20 Attractions to Explore Near Lake of the Ozarks State Park

Welcome to Party Cove, Camden County, Missouri - a notorious hangout spot on Lake of the Ozarks that draws thousands of visitors every summer. This water-based festival features a never-ending lineup of boats, bikinis, and booze, all converging in a single spot - the cove. While some may call it a wild party playground, others view it as a den of debauchery. But one thing’s for sure - Party Cove is not for the faint of heart.

Ozark Caverns, is a one-of-a-kind underground experience that will leave you in awe. As you descend into the caverns, the cool air will take your breath away, and the stunning formations will leave you speechless. From stalactites to stalagmites, every inch of the cave is brimming with natural wonders. And if you're lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the resident bat population! But let's be real, the best part of Ozark Caverns is the tour guide's corny jokes.

The Grand Glaize Bridge spans over the Lake of the Ozarks with a length of 3,800 feet and a width of 65 feet. Who knew a bridge could be so impressive? But don't let its size fool you, this structure has seen some crazy stuff. From fishing tournaments to wild boat parties, the Grand Glaize Bridge has seen it all. And let's be real, who wouldn't want to party on a bridge? It's like being on a boat, but without the risk of seasickness.

Bagnell Dam, located in Miller County, Missouri, is a magnificent feat of engineering that is definitely worth a visit. Built in 1931, it is 148 feet tall and stretches 2,543 feet across the Osage River. It provides hydroelectric power to the surrounding areas and also creates the stunning Lake of the Ozarks. Not only is it impressive to look at, but it's also a popular spot for boating and fishing enthusiasts.

Camdenton is a quaint little town that's worth a visit. Located in Camden County, this charming spot offers visitors a chance to unwind and enjoy some peace and quiet. Whether you prefer to take a stroll around the picturesque Lake of the Ozarks or explore the unique shops and restaurants downtown, Camdenton definitely has something for everyone. And let's not forget the friendly locals who always have a smile and a story to share.

The Hurricane Deck Bridge spans a distance of 5,224 feet over the magnificent Lake of the Ozarks. It offers unparalleled stunning views of the surrounding area and is considered one of the finest examples of architecture in the state. Plus, it has a pretty cool name. I mean, who wouldn't want to take a stroll on a bridge that sounds like it could withstand a hurricane? However, I must warn you, if you're afraid of heights, you might want to skip this attraction.

Miller County Museum is a hidden gem that will leave you pleasantly surprised. Despite its small size, this museum packs a punch with its extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits. From the historic photographs that capture the essence of Miller County to the antique farm equipment that fills the spacious gallery, you'll find yourself immersed in the rich history of the area. To top it off, the museum's staff is incredibly knowledgeable and passionate.

These picturesque ruins filled with architectural marvels tell of the life of early 20th century Missouri businessman Robert Snyder and his family. Despite the tragic destruction of the castle in a fire, the ruins still stand tall and proud, offering visitors a glimpse into a party filled history. Don't miss out on the breathtaking views of the surrounding Lake of the Ozarks and the natural bridge leading to the castle ruins. Trust me, this is a hidden gem that you won't regret visiting.

Ha Ha Tonka State Park in Camden County, Missouri is a true hidden gem. With its beautiful scenery, unique geological formations, and impressive castle ruins, it offers something for everyone. But what really sets it apart is its quirky name - who wouldn't want to say they visited Ha Ha Tonka? Trust me, this park is no joke. It's a wonderful place to explore, hike, and experience the natural beauty of the Midwest.

Lake of the Ozarks State park, is a nature lover's paradise! From hiking to fishing and camping to picnicking, this park offers something for everyone. The park covers over 17,000 acres and boasts the largest man-made lake in the state of Missouri. With its scenic beauty, it is hard not to be impressed with the stunning views of the lake. It is a great place to go fishing with family and friends, and the variety of fish available is sure to give you something to brag about!

The Niangua River is like a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Camden County, Missouri. Why do so few people know about this stunning river? It's hard to say, but those who do know will tell you that it's worth discovering. The river offers a wide array of activities, from fishing to kayaking to tubing. It's particularly popular in the summer months, when families flock to its cool waters to escape the sweltering heat. But even in the off-season, the Niangua is a beautiful sight to behold.

Gravois Arm is a scenic and popular recreational area located in the beautiful Morgan county of Missouri. The arm is a narrow, winding channel that branches off from the main body of the Lake of the Ozarks, stretching for approximately 35 miles. The area surrounding Gravois Arm is characterized by rugged hills, deep valleys, and lush forests, offering visitors a variety of outdoor activities and stunning vistas to enjoy.

This 1,100-acre natural haven has something for everyone, whether it's hiking, fishing, camping, or simply enjoying the great outdoors. And with its striking mix of towering hardwood forests, picturesque prairie landscapes, and tranquil streams, it's easy to see why this place is a haven for nature enthusiasts. The best part? Fiery Fork is still relatively undiscovered, meaning it's a great spot to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Nestled in the heart of Laclede County, Missouri, lies the gem that is Bennett Spring State Park. With over 3,000 acres of lush forests and sprawling grasslands, this park offers a much-needed respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. But don't let the serene surroundings fool you – Bennett Spring is also home to some of the best trout fishing in the state, attracting anglers from far and wide. And let's not forget about the abundant wildlife.

The Uranus Missouri Towne Center is a unique attraction in Pulaski County that boasts a wide range of entertainment options for visitors. This one-of-a-kind retail and entertainment complex is located in the town of St. Robert and is home to an array of shops, restaurants, and attractions that cater to the whole family.The center's shops offer a diverse selection of merchandise, including clothing, jewelry, souvenirs, and gifts.

The Devil's Elbow Bridge is an iconic landmark situated in Pulaski County, Missouri, that attracts visitors from far and wide. The bridge is a part of the legendary Route 66, which was once the main route linking the eastern and western parts of the United States. Built in 1923, the bridge spans across the Big Piney River and is famed for its stunning metal truss design and picturesque location.

Little Piney Creek is a tributary of the Meramec River and stretches for approximately 25 miles, providing visitors with ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as fishing, kayaking, and hiking.The valley of Little Piney Creek is as beautiful as it is tranquil, featuring towering cliffs alongside lush greenery. The creek is well-known for its excellent fishing. Visitors can expect to catch a variety of fish, including smallmouth and largemouth bass, bluegill, and crappie.

The Missouri State Museum is a hidden gem that every history buff should visit. Not only is it incredibly informative, but it's also surprisingly entertaining. The displays and exhibits are thoughtfully curated and cover a wide range of topics, from the early days of Missouri statehood to some of the more obscure facts about the state's role in the Civil War. And let's not forget about the staff! They are some of the friendliest and most knowledgeable people you'll encounter in any museum.

This magnificent building boasts a rich history and breathtaking architecture. From the gorgeous dome atop the building to the stunning rotunda, there is no shortage of awe-inspiring sights to see here. But let's be real - the best part about the Missouri State Capitol is the people watching. Whether it's politicians passionately debating or tourists snapping selfies, you never know what you're going to see. In my opinion, a visit to the Missouri State Capitol is a must.

The Lewis and Clark Monument in Cole County, Missouri is a sight to behold. Towering above visitors, it's a testament to the amazing journey that Meriwether Lewis and William Clark embarked upon over 200 years ago. Not only does it offer a great photo op, but it's also a fantastic way to learn about the history of the area. Plus, let's be real - who doesn't love a good monument? A giant sculpture of humans and animals frozen in time, it's like something out of a sci-fi movie.