Looking for lakeside relaxation, outdoor adventure, and small-town charm? Head to Camdenton, Missouri! Located in the heart of the Lake of the Ozarks region, Camdenton offers boating, hiking, caves, and local wineries—perfect for family trips, romantic getaways, or fishing weekends.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Camdenton is in the late spring through early fall (May–October). Warm weather is ideal for lake activities, hiking, and attending festivals. Fall offers crisp air and beautiful Ozark foliage, while winters are quiet and cozy for cabin getaways.
How to Get There
- By Car: Camdenton is accessible via U.S. Route 54, about 1.5 hours from Springfield and 2.5 hours from St. Louis or Kansas City.
- By Plane: The closest airports are Springfield-Branson National Airport (SGF) and Columbia Regional Airport (COU), each about 1.5 hours away by car.
- By Boat: Camdenton sits on the Big Niangua Arm of Lake of the Ozarks, with many water-accessible resorts and docks.
Where to Stay
- Old Kinderhook Resort – Upscale resort with golf, a spa, dining, and year-round outdoor activities.
- The Lodge at Lake of the Ozarks – Lakeside lodging with access to boating, fishing, and scenic views.
- Sleep Inn & Suites – Comfortable and convenient hotel near downtown Camdenton and Ha Ha Tonka State Park.
Top Attractions
- Camdenton City Park – Great for family outings, with playgrounds, walking paths, and shaded picnic areas.
- Ozark Amphitheater – Catch national music acts and live performances at this open-air venue just minutes from town.
Attractions for Couples
⮕ Hike Ruins and Scenic Trails at Ha Ha Tonka State Park
The 3700 acre Ha Ha Tonka State Park is situated on the Lake of Ozarks. The main attraction is the ruin of an early 20th construction that was designed to look like a European castle. The businessman who conceived the plan named it after the bubbling water of the natural spring. The building has a sad history, ending in a fire in 1942. Fifteen kilometers of trails have been laid out on the land so visitors can see the sinkholes, caves, bluffs and natural bridges in the park. Boating, swimming and fishing are popular lakeside activities. A visitor center and outdoor interpretation area provide information on the various attractions and activities.
1491 Missouri D, Camdenton, MO
⮕ Venture Underground to Explore the Mysteries of Bridal Cave
A story of a wedding in the early 1800s, as told by the Osage Native Americans that lived in the area, is the origin of the cave's name. Fittingly, the Bridal Cave can be hired for weddings in the modern era and more than 3000 couples across the globe have done so. The area has been protected since 1948 but visitors are welcome. There are frequent guided tours through caves where many rock formations and the Mystery Lake can be seen. Outside of the cave, there are viewing decks, an observation tower, trails and picnic spots. Gems can be 'mined' in the souvenir shop.
526 Bridal Cave Rd, Camdenton, MO 65020, Phone: 573-346-2676
⮕ Tee Off in Style at Lake Valley Golf and Country Club
The Lake Valley Golf and Country Club was commissioned in 1967 but torrential rain and the rocky terrain delayed construction and necessitated a change in design. Instead of being a par 70 course, it became a par 72. The early years were difficult financially but a volunteer spirit, donations and dues paid in advance helped the fledgling club to survive. Today there is a clubhouse, pro shop, restaurant, locker rooms, ablution facilities and a swimming pool. The golf course and the banquet hall in the clubhouse can be hired for group functions. Regular events ranging from Independence Day celebrations to trivia evenings are held at the club.
367 C.C. Blair Drive, Camdenton, MO 65020, Phone: 573-346-7218
Where to Eat
⮕ Grab a Slice of Local Favorite at Pepperoni Bill's Pizzeria
Growing up in the Lake of Ozarks was sometimes lonely for Bill. Neighbors were far away so he spent time with his mother and grandmother in the kitchen and developed a love of cooking all the old family Italian dishes. He grew up to establish his own restaurant near where he grew up. It is small but expanding due to increased popularity. Pizzas are most popular at Pepperoni Bill's Pizzeria, from the 10” Billy the Kid to the 16” Jumbo. There are also gluten-free options, including a cauliflower crust. Raviolis, insalatas and calzones are also crowd pleasers.
On the Square - 35 Camden Court SW, Camdenton, Phone: 573-873-2365
⮕ If You’re Hungry for Hearty Comfort Food, Then Head to RJ's
Randy Jung has been in the restaurant business for more than 40 years and attracts clients from 40 miles away. His family-friendly RJ's diner serves breakfasts and lunches. The food is home-cooked using fresh, local ingredients and the portions are huge. Specials change almost daily but some favorites remain, such as a short stack of pancakes, crispy French toast and Friday's fisherman's platter. There are a range of pies to choose from for dessert. RJs caters for special events and large groups.
275 W. Hwy 54, Camdenton, MO 65020, Phone: 573-346-6133
Local Events
- Camdenton Air Show (Fall) – Thrilling aerial performances, static displays, and family fun at the Camdenton Memorial Airport.
- Lake of the Ozarks Shootout (August) – High-speed powerboat races and lake events drawing visitors from across the country.
- Christmas on the Square (December) – Holiday celebration with a lighted parade, music, and Santa in downtown Camdenton.
Day Trips Within 30 Minutes of Camdenton, Missouri
- Osage Beach (20–25 min) – Shop at the outlet mall, enjoy waterfront dining, or explore the Osage Beach Parkway.
- Eldon (30 min) – Discover this quiet town with local eateries, antique stores, and seasonal fairs.
- Lake of the Ozarks State Park (25 min) – Missouri’s largest state park, offering hiking, swimming, and camping on the lake.
- Linn Creek (15 min) – Visit the lake’s quieter side for fishing, marinas, and relaxed lakeside vibes.
- Seven Springs Winery (20 min) – Sip local wines and enjoy sweeping Ozark views from a scenic hillside tasting room.
FAQ
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How did Camdenton, Missouri come into existence?
- Camdenton was established in the 1930s after the Osage River was dammed and the Lake of the Ozarks was formed.
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How large is the Lake of the Ozarks?
- The lake stretches for 92 miles and was created by the construction of the Bagnell Dam.
- At the time of its completion, it was the largest man-made lake in the USA and one of the largest in the world.
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How did the creation of the lake impact the area?
- The lake brought hydroelectricity to the region, significantly improving infrastructure and development.
- Shortly after, tourists began arriving, transforming the area into a popular vacation destination.
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How many homes are on the Lake of the Ozarks?
- There are approximately 70,000 homes on the lake.
- Most of these homes are vacation properties.
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Who owns the shoreline of the Lake of the Ozarks?
- Most of the lake’s 1,150 km shoreline is privately owned.
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How popular is the Lake of the Ozarks as a tourist destination?
- The area attracts approximately 3 million visitors each year.
Plan Your Trip
Table of Contents:
- 1. Hike Ruins and Scenic Trails at Ha Ha Tonka State Park
- 2. Venture Underground to Explore the Mysteries of Bridal Cave
- 3. Tee Off in Style at Lake Valley Golf and Country Club
- 4. Grab a Slice of Local Favorite at Pepperoni Bill's Pizzeria
- 5. If You’re Hungry for Hearty Comfort Food, Then Head to RJ's