Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri

Deep in the Ozarks, wild herds have thrived for nearly a century.

Land and water. Rivers and lakes. Mountains and valleys and wineries and barbecue. We partnered with the Missouri Division of Tourism for a road trip through the Ozarks, where history and adventure await around every bend.

This reservoir in central Missouri has a rep as a full-throttle boating vacation destination.

More than 5 million visitors come each year to play at the lake. Boat to dockside eateries, such as Shady Gators, or hop in the car to explore small towns like Osage Beach and Lake Ozark. See our top picks for what to do, where to eat and where to stay.