LAKE HISTORY
The Osage River and the spectacular scenery surrounding it gained one of the world's largest man-made lakes, The Lake of the Ozarks, with the construction of Bagnell Dam. Known as the Great Osage River Project, construction of the dam began on August 6, 1929 and was completed two years later with the impounding of the river on February 2, 1931. Ever since The Lake of the Ozarks was opened to the public on May 30, 1931, thousands of travelers have enjoyed the natural beauty and recreation available at The Lake every year.
Nestled in the foothills of the Ozark Mountains, one finds lush forests, rolling hills and dramatic vistas from the bluffs surrounding The Lake. Just a few of the wildlife species natural to the area for centuries include whitetail deer, waterfowl of all sorts, and the Great Blue Heron. Year after year, each season brings it own special beauty to The Lake region. Winter brings expansive views of snow covered hills, giving way to the delicate flower tracings of dogwood and redbud trees in spring. Summer in full leaf brings a constantly changing panorama of misty hills at dawn to deep forests of green at midday, and beautiful sunsets reflecting off The Lake in the evening with a serenade of owls beginning their day. Autumn's colors promises to keep one spellbound as the hills unveil their annual fall drama.
The Lake of the Ozarks and surrounding area of 58,000 acres consistently provides its visitors and residents with unforgettable scenery and a variety of leisure and recreational activities for all ages to enjoy.
Back to the top
TRANSPORTATION
The Lake of the Ozarks is centrally located in Missouri and easy to reach with a within a two and a half-hour drive from either St. Louis or Kansas City. Commercial air travel can get as close as Columbia and then the drive is reduced to approximately one and half-hours. Lee C. Fine Memorial Airport can be found just south of Osage Beach and has a 6,500 by 100-ft. runway, plus terminal building, parallel taxiway, fuel and tie down service.
Approaching by car from the north on the Highway 54, one arrives first at the Bagnell Dam area. The first mile west of the dam is known as "The Strip" and is home to a variety of restaurants, hotels, motels, amusements, arcades and shops such as boutiques, souvenir and crafts. Next, one arrives at the intersection of Business Highway 54 and Route HH where one finds Horseshoe Bend, the Village of Four Seasons, fine accommodations, restaurants, and golf courses. A little further down the road is The Lake of the Ozarks Community Bridge, a toll bridge spanning the main channel of the lake.
Back to the top
HEALTH
The Lake of the Ozarks offers excellent health facilities. Lake of the Ozarks General Hospital is a 99-bed not-for-profit institution licensed by the Missouri Division of Health. The Joint Commission on Accreditation of Health Organizations accredits it. A hospital staff of over 130 physicians representing numerous health care specialties includes active, associate, courtesy and consulting medical staff. The medical services include a newly expanded Emergency Department open 24 hours a day with helicopter service, Level Two Trauma Unit, a state-of-the-art ICU, Obstetrics Department, Orthopedic Department, in-patient and out-patient surgery, and comprehensive diagnostic services. This facility also provides on-going therapy and rehabilitation.
The new 14-bed Skilled Nursing-Care Unit provides post-hospital care and a full range of rehabilitative services for patients who are not yet able to care for themselves at home. The focus is to help patients regain their strength so that they can return to their own homes quickly and self-sufficiently.
The Lake of the Ozarks General Hospital also includes a new Outpatient Services Center that is the location for all outpatient and rehabilitative activity. A full service pharmacy, dietary counseling, and patient and community education are just some of the additional features the hospital offers.
In addition to the Lake of the Ozarks General Hospital there are 25 clinics in the community, 4 skilled nursing facilities, 2 intermediate care facilities, 1 residential care facility, 3 assisted living facilities, one of which has private care, and 7 home health services.
Back to the top
EDUCATION
Public Education
The School of the Osage District R-II is classified AAA, the highest academic rating awarded by the State Board of Education. The professional staff in the district totals 112, which over fifty percent holding a Master's degree and above.
The district is divided into a preschool program, elementary (K-3), upper elementary (4-6), junior high (7-8), and high school (9-12). As of 1998, the student/teacher ratio was 18 to 1. The athletic programs involve over 300 students in grades 7-12 and instrumental music instruction begins in the sixth grade.
Vocational-technical instruction is provided in electronics, auto mechanics, auto body, machine shop, carpentry, business practice, drafting, health occupations, welding, data processing, marketing, horticulture and food services. Over 250 computers are available with all students having access to basic computer literacy skills beginning with Kindergarten.
Student performance on normal and criterion referenced tests is consistently above the national ACT and PSAT tests (college preparatory tests) and the MMAT (state averages). The average ACT score is 21.3 with 59-73% of high school students continuing their education after graduation.
The Camdenton School District R-III is classified AAA, the highest rating possible. The district is also fully accredited by the North Central Association K-12. Camdenton was the first district in Missouri to be fully accredited by the North Central Association. Statistics from the 1997-1998 school year indicate that 116 of the 271 teachers have a Master's Degree or above. Athletic programs range from Little League to Middle School and High School activities. Instrumental music instruction begins in the seventh grade.
The district has a vocational school for area students. Computers are integral with the curriculum with computer assisted instruction beginning in Kindergarten.
Vocational-Technical Schools
As of 1998, the community surrounding the Lake of the Ozarks has five vocational-technical schools: Lake Area Vocational-Technical School, Tri-County Vocational Technical School, Lake University of Cosmetology, Miller's Institute of Beauty, and the Phil Gardner School of Real Estate (in Jefferson City).
Private Schools
Lakeview Christian Academy is a private school that offers basic education through the Accelerated Christian Education curriculum from Kindergarten through 12 grade. Students receive individual attention and non-denominational, Judeo-Christian values.
Camden Christian School provides education from Kindergarten through grade 12 with the ABEKA Curriculum. Qualified teachers are employed and follow the school's motto: "A quality education with a Christian perspective." A Ministry of Bible Baptist Church.
Back to the top
RECREATION
Boating and Water Sports
The most prominent recreational activities at the Lake of the Ozarks are, undoubtedly, boating and water sports. Marinas and boat ramps exist at virtually any section of the shoreline. Private individuals operate some while others are associated with certain resorts, condo rentals, lodges and cabins. Whether you own your own boat or would like to rent one, access to boating will be easy. The difficult part may come when you have to make a choice of the many different kinds of boats to rent! Sailboats, pontoon boats, bassboats, motorboats, cruisers, and speedboats are some of the possibilities. The water sport you want to enjoy may help in making the choice as with water skiing. Then again, you may simply want to sit back and let someone else do the driving with a scenic cruise on an excursion yacht. Other water sports include swimming, scuba diving, parasailing, and a list that goes on and on.
The Lake area also boasts numerous small rivers that provide excellent canoeing and kayaking possibilities. Again, you can bring your own or rent one from the many rental companies along the river that provide drop-off and pick-up services.
Fishing and Hunting
The Lake of the Ozarks is well known for its excellent fishing. Largemouth Bass, Crappie, White Bass, Striper and Catfish take center stage for most Lake anglers. Through excellent management, regulation and stocking efforts of the Missouri Department of Conservation, Lake of the Ozarks has provided a number of state record catches over the past ten years including a 20.5 lb. hybrid bass, a 34 lb. drum, a 36 lb. buffalo, a 42 lb. muskie, a 91 lb. blue catfish and a 134 lb. 12 oz. paddlefish. Whether you are a serious pro fisherman or out with the family for a day of relaxation and fun, the Lake of the Ozarks has what you want for a great fishing vacation.
Throughout the year, hunters can pursue deer turkey, squirrel, rabbit, dove, duck, geese and quail in the forests, fields, farmlands, and on the waters at The Lake. Most hunting in the Lake region is done on private land with permission of the landowner. There are also some hunting preserves and some landowners offer land-lease packages for hunting. Information regarding fishing and hunting licenses, seasons, limits and Hunter Training in the state of Missouri is available with the Lake Area Missouri Department of Conservation.
Golfing
The golfing enthusiast needs look no further than The Lake for a golf course to meet his or her specifications. Dozens of beautifully landscaped and masterfully designed golf courses abound. Some of the courses are open to the public and some are set aside for hotel guests only. Spring and fall discounts are available as well as package deals at resorts that specify lodging, rounds of golf, green fees and other details for one price.
Shopping
Shopping possibilities are simply endless at the Lake of the Ozarks. Malls, clothing stores offering business, evening and casual wear, specialty stores, home and décor, craft shops, art galleries, music stores, antique shops, flea markets, emporiums, and bazaars make this area a year-round mecca for shoppers. The largest top brand outlet mall in the state is located in the township of Osage Beach. All of this adds up to The Lake having anything that you could possibly need or want and being the perfect destination for the casual browser and those who love to shop 'till they drop.
Restaurants
More than 100 restaurants at The Lake tempt you with menus that range from simple to the most exquisite gourmet meal, many locate on or over-looking the water. Whether your style is casual or black-tie or anything in between, The Lake will have what you want. Full menus include continental cuisine, traditional Ozark Bar-B-Que and fish, homestyle cooking, buffets and "fast food". And let's not forget the ice cream parlors and homemade fudge shops!
Back to the top
STATE PARKS & ATTRACTIONS
Ha Ha Tonka State Park
The origins of this state park begin 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 "Karst" 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 $30 fee to guarantee its use.
To escape the summer's heat, many vacationers visit Ozark Caverns. 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 Caves
In addition to the Ozark Caverns, the Lake Area has two other caves that have been made easy to view with paved walkways, bridges, handrails and lights. Bridal Cave, the oldest cave in the lake area, can be found just north of Camdenton, off Hwy. 5 on Lake Road 5-88. It can also be reached by water at the 10-mile marker on the Big Niangua Arm of the Lake. Jacob's Cave, the largest cave in the Lake area is just north of Gravois Mills, off Route TT. This is the only cave that is completely accessible for persons with disabilities.
The Lake area contains over 300 registered and mapped wild caves. Wild caves differ from ones that have been "tamed" such as Jacob's Cave (above). These caves have no tour guides but spelunkers can experience first-hand the excitement of discovery. Temperatures in these caves vary between 50 and 60 degrees F. year-round.
Lake Area Museums
The Camden County Museum is located in Linn Creek and 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. Other rooms include antique household furnishings, tools, and banking equipment.
Open May through October, Monday through Friday, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
The Miller County Museum is found in Tuscumbia and occupies the old Anchor Mill building. The folk life museum provides an authentic view into the past central Missouri society, its Indian heritage, crafts, early home accessories, schools, churches and agriculture.
Open Mid-May through Mid-September, Mon., Wed., and Fri., 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
The Morgan County Museum is housed in the Martin Hotel in Versailles. The hotel itself is over 100 years old. Twenty-eight rooms of the hotel depict different themes relating to past Missouri life. The lobby of the hotel still displays the eight-day Seth Thomas wall clock and the keyboard with keys behind the original hotel desk.
Open June through August, Tuesday through Friday, 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. and by appointment.
Lake Area Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center
Willmore Lodge
Just northeast of Bagnell Dam on Business Hwy. 54, Willmore Lodge continues to provide an administrative and entertainment (albeit informational) center in its new role as the Lake Area Chamber of Commerce. Originally it provided that same kind of service for the Bagnell Dam construction project, being built by the Union Electric Company in 1930. It is registered in the National Register of Historic Places.
Open to the public all year.
Group Tours
Information about group tours is available by calling 1-800-FUN LAKE (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 waterparks, old time photoshops, the "Strip" just north of Bagnell 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 BluesFest is held in August and The Lake of the Ozarks Jazz Society events occur month January through November. The Dixieland Jazz Festival 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.
Back to the top
DIRECTORY OF UTILITIES
All area codes 573 unless otherwise noted.
ELECTRIC
- Union Electric 800-552-7583
Upper Power Plant
Lakeside, Missouri 65049
TELEPHONE COMPANIES
- Southwestern Bell 800-203-7070
220 E. 5th St.
Sedalia, Missouri 65301
- AT&T 800-222-0300
- Sprint 800-877-7746
- LDDS 800-951-LDDS
209 E. Green Meadows Rd.
Columbia, Missouri 65203
Water
- Miller County Public Water 573-365-4482
P.O.Box 851
Lake Ozark, Missouri 65049
- Ozarks Shores Water Co. 573-365-6792
802 Bittersweet Rd.
Lake Ozark, Missouri 65049
Sewer
- Wastewater Treatment Plant 573-365-5378
Woodriver Rd.
Lake Ozark, Missouri 65049
Trash Disposal
- Modern Sanitation 573-348-5012
Hwy 54 E.
Osage Beach, Missouri 65065
- Waste Management of the Ozarks 800-35t-rash
P.O.Box 1416
Lebanon,Missouri 65536
Back to the top
DIRECTORY OF PUBLIC SERVICES
All area codes 573 unless otherwise noted.
|
Police |
|
Camdenton |
911 or 346-2243 |
|
Osage Beach |
911 or 348-5515 |
|
Lake Ozark |
911 or 365-5371 |
|
Eldon |
911 or 392-5611 |
|
Kaiser |
369-2341 |
|
Linn Creek |
346-6200 |
|
Sheriff |
|
Camden County |
(emergency) 346-2243
(non-emergency) 346-4440 |
|
Miller County |
369-2341 |
|
Morgan County |
378-5481 |
|
Fire Departments |
|
Camdenton |
911 |
|
Osage Beach |
911 or 348-5222 |
|
Lake Ozark |
911 |
|
Eldon |
911 |
|
Village of Four Seasons |
911 |
|
Burn Permit |
|
Osage Beach |
348-1221 |
|
Lake Ozark |
365-3380 |
|
Ambulance |
|
Osage Beach |
911 or 348-5000 |
|
Lake Ozark |
911 |
|
Camdenton |
911 or 346-5682 |
|
Water Patrol |
|
Missouri State Water Patrol |
1-573-751-3333 |
|
Highway Patrol Troop F |
|
Missouri State Highway Patrol |
1-573-751-3313
1-800-525-5555 |
Back to the top
NOTE: All text copyright © 2001-2003 to Gaslight Properties GMAC
Sources:
- Lake Life 2002. Vacation Guide and Service Directory published by the Lake of the Ozarks Convention and Visitor Bureau.
- Compiled information from the Lake Area Chamber of Commerce. 1998.
