CARING COMES NATURALLY - SUE ROSEN Broker/Owner

Lake Area

FUN AT THE LAKE

CAMDENTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

SEE LAKE AREA RECREATION

Looking for something fun to do while at the lake?

Set your sights on these recreational opportunities: bicycling, bird watching, horseback riding, fishing, golf, hiking, museums, skiing and boating, swimming, spelunking, sightseeing, camping and live entertainment - all that and much more is available in the towns and rural areas surrounding Lake of the Ozarks.

 Ha Ha Tonka State Park

The origins of this state park began with a prominent businessman in Kansas City, Robert McClure Snyder, around the turn of the century. He learned of the beauty of what is now The Lake of the Ozarks region and after journeying to see it, decided to purchase land and build a private home reminiscent of European-style castles. He went to great lengths to bring in European experts in stone masonry and construction techniques, and began construction in 1905. Sadly, his dream of Ha Ha Tonka did not materialize for him. He was killed in an automobile accident in 1906. His sons began completion of the project in 1922. After years of adversity, Ha Ha Tonka was leased as a hotel. Then in 1942, a fire started from one the many fireplaces and the entire structure was destroyed. The remains we see today are the stone outside walls that stand alone on the cliff.

The State of Missouri purchased this land in 1978 and opened it to the public. It comprises about 3,500 acres on the Niangua Arm of the Lake of the Ozarks about 5 miles south of Camdenton. The topography of the area is consistent with the Ozarks in general and is an excellent example of "Karsts" with caves, sink holes, underground streams and natural bridges. One of the state's largest springs is located here. Ha Ha Tonka is an excellent day trip and has places to spread out a picnic lunch.

It is not hard to understand why Robert Snyder would want to enjoy living in this place. The beauty that he saw in Ha Ha Tonka is still here for all to see.

Lake of the Ozarks State Park

This state park is Missouri's largest and affords its visitors with 90 miles of shoreline along the Grand Glaize Arm of the lake.  It also has two public beaches, boat rentals, boat launching areas, hiking trails, horseback riding stables and four organized youth camps.  Picnic areas are available and one can reserve a picnic shelter for large groups for a fee to guarantee its use. To escape the summer's heat, many vacationers visit Ozark Caverns where they maintain a constant temperature of 56 degrees F.  Guided tours will lead one to discover a whole new world of underground beauty. 

Lake Area Museums

The Camden County Museum is located in Linn Creek and is housed in what was once the Linn Creek School.  As one goes through the old school, each classroom depicts a specific theme such as archives to weaving where woven rugs can still be purchased.  Rooms include antique household furnishings, tools and equipment.

Group Tours

Information about group tours is available by calling 1-800-FUNLAKE (386-5253).  They can provide assistance in arranging a tour of Missouri and The Lake of the Ozarks.

Family Attractions

The lake area has mini-golf courses, go-kart tracks, amusement centers and water parks, old time photo shops, the "Strip" just north of Bagnall Dam, arcades, movies, concerts, plays, annual events, festivals and fireworks.  Some of the best musicians and comedians in the state stay right in the lake region.  An annual Blues Fest is held in August and the Lake of the Ozarks Jazz Society events occur from January through November.  The Dixieland Jazz Fesitval in October is one of the area's favorites.  The Lake of the Ozarks Chamber of Commerce will always have a current list of upcoming attractions.