Enjoying boating at Lake of the Ozarks landscape in a speeding boat.

Boating at Lake of the Ozarks: This Missouri Lake is Popular!

The Lake of the Ozarks is located on the northern side of the Ozark Mountains in the Central Missouri area. The Lake of Ozark was formed by the damming of the Osage River back in 1931. In the past 90 years, this beautiful Lake has become one of the top vacation destinations in Missouri. Since the Lake has a long shoreline of 1,150 miles approximately, it is one of the main features for those visiting Missouri. The Lake of Ozarks provides access to some of the best beaches, great fishing, and lots of water activities. There is no shortage of ways you can enjoy your day boating at Lake of the Ozarks.

Boating in Missouri

Boating on the many lakes in Missouri is a favorite pastime for tens of thousands of Midwesterners. But among them all, the Lake of the Ozarks is known as a boater’s paradise. Whether you are a skier, fisherman, or want to enjoy a meal at one of the lakeside restaurants or marinas, this is the best place for anyone to own a boat. 

Most of the people who own a house at this magnificent Missouri Lake have their own dock. And many more have access to one of the many community docks to house their boats. For most LOTO boaters, they feel that having jet ski lifts or boat lifts at Lake of the Ozarks is an important way to protect their watercraft against the often-large waves here.

For tourists, there are hundreds of boat rentals around the Lake at very reasonable prices. You can find many bass boats, small wave runners, racing craft, pontoons, speed boats, and more along the wide channel. People love to take advantage of the coves for a relaxing swim, to enjoy the view, or indulge in the many water activities on the Lake.

Amenities & Events

Aerial photo of Ha Ha Tonka State Park Castle Ruins at the Lake of the Ozarks, MO.
Boats on Lake of the Ozarks frequent the cove overlooked by Ha Ha Tonka Castle remains near Camdenton, MO.

The Lake of the Ozarks is a great place to explore. You can rent a pontoon boat for a day to explore the Lake on your own, try out the many water sports, or splash around by the pool bar at one of the many pool parties held at the resorts. There are also many Ozarks Wineries you can opt for or check out Bridal Cave. Or, if you prefer a more relaxing vacation, you can check out the many spas in this beautiful location.

There are also a number of boating events held at the Lake of the Ozark throughout the summer and spring months. At the top of the list, the August Shootout is the largest powerboat race in the US. If you are in the area in May, you can also catch the annual Invitational Powerboat Race, one of the biggest race events in the whole of the Midwest.

Interesting Facts about Lake of the Ozarks

  • When the Lake was first made, it was the largest man-made Lake in the world.
  • The construction of the Bagnell Dam was completed in 1931, and it was officially called the Lake of the Ozarks.
  • More than 20,000 people worked on finishing building the Bagnell Dam within two years.
  • The Lake of the Ozarks is 130 feet deep.
  • Out of all the people who own more than one home in the Midwest, about 40% of them own a home at the Lake of the Ozarks.
  • There are about 70,000 docks on the Lake.
  • There are around 900 campgrounds around the Lake.

It’s no wonder that boating at Lake of the Ozarks is one of the most popular choices among all the lakes in Missouri! We hope you’ll come and enjoy this special getaway location. And while you’re here, if you’re in the market for a boat lift, stop in and see us at LOTO Lift!

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