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Lake of the Ozarks State Park

The Lake of the Ozarks State Park is the largest State Park in Missouri. Located just south of Osage Beach, the State Park is 17,441 acres and filled with fun and interesting things to do. If you are looking for a pure outdoor paradise while on your vacation, Lake of the Ozarks State Park is one of the places you will want to visit.

The State Park offers 85 miles along the shore, which includes two public beaches. Along with the beaches there are two boat launching areas. Also in the Lake of the Ozarks State Park there is an airport with a large runway, terminal building, taxiway, and fuel area. If you are looking to enjoy some activities in the outdoors you can visit one of the hiking trails or you can check out the horseback riding stables. Additionally, children and young adults can enjoy activities sponsored by four youth camps in the park.

The Lake of the Ozarks aquatic trail is simply amazing. This trail can be found along the lake’s shore. Originally designed for boaters who have stops to make by the buoys, you can look at the 14 highlights along the shore by visiting the area firsthand or by looking through a guidebook, which will tell you right where these highlights are.

Along the Grand Glaize Arm of the Lake you will find numerous park facilities. Enjoy a picnic dinner at one of the sand beaches or in the picnic area. Of course, if you have a larger group you can rent one of the picnic shelters for a modest fee to ensure the shelter is free for your group. The boat ramps are available to either launch your boat or rent one to take a tour of the lake. Whether you plan to lounge on the lake or fish, you will definitely enjoy your time on lovely Lake Ozarks.

The open-air amphitheater is available from May until October. At the amphitheater you can watch movies and slides about the natural wonder of Missouri state parks, found in the Lake of the Ozarks and other areas of Missouri. During these months, you can also go on guided hikes or you can choose from a variety of programs available in the warmer months.

The Ozark Caverns are an excellent stop for visitors of Lake of the Ozarks who are looking to get out of the heat. Handheld lanterns are used to allow visitors to discover the underground world of the Ozark Cavern. The Ozark Cavern is home to Angel’s Shower, which is a waterfall that falls from the ceiling to a bowl-like, stone basin existing on the stone floor of the cavern. Animals, not normally seen in the light are also one of the popular viewing points of the caverns.

If you are planning to go into the caverns you might want to visit the Ozark Caverns Visitor Center. This will give you a chance to learn more about the cavern environment before you rush to experience what is down below. If you are near the Visitors Center there are numerous trails offering beautiful scenic points of interest and diverse natural visuals you won’t want to miss.

If you are visiting the lake area for the outdoors, which most people do, you will not want to miss Lake of the Ozarks State Park.