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Craving a lake day close to home? Missouri’s lakes serve up everything from boating and fishing to swimming and lakeside camping under big, beautiful skies.

Highlights:

  • Boating and party coves at Lake of the Ozarks
  • Trout fishing and scenic shores at Table Rock Lake
  • Kayaking and hiking at Stockton Lake
  • Swimming and family picnics at Mark Twain Lake
  • Camping and wildlife watching at Pomme de Terre Lake

1. Blue Springs Lake - 30 minutes from downtown Kansas City

Rating: ★★★★★

Blue Springs Lake - 30 minutes from downtown Kansas City

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Location: Jackson County, Missouri — within Fleming Park near Kansas City

Recommended For: Families, boaters, anglers, and water sports lovers

What I Love: “A vibrant lake retreat just outside Kansas City, perfect for thrilling water play and family cookouts.”

  • Escape the city bustle at Blue Springs Lake, a 720-acre reservoir in Fleming Park, just minutes from Kansas City.
  • Make a splash with jet skiing, tubing, canoeing, sailing, and swimming from multiple landings and picnic shelters along the lake’s wooded shores.
  • Catch dinner—fish for hybrid striped bass, largemouth bass, catfish, bluegill, and carp, then prep your catch at the convenient fish cleaning station.
  • Rent a boat and hit the water with family or friends—rental options and ample boat ramps make it easy to get out and play.
  • Unwind on land with scenic picnic areas, grilling sites, and nearby nature trails across Fleming Park’s 7,800 acres.

Cost: Entry is free, but some facilities like boat rentals may charge a fee.

Best time to visit: Late spring through early fall for ideal water sports and fishing conditions.

Local tips: Arrive early on weekends for boat launch access; shaded picnic shelters go fast during peak times.

Distance: 30 minutes from downtown Kansas City

How to Get to Blue Springs Lake: Take I-470 to Bowlin Road in Lee’s Summit; follow signs to Fleming Park and Blue Springs Lake.

Address: 1500 NE Bowlin Rd, Lee's Summit, MO 64064

2. Bull Shoals Lake - 2.5 hours from Little Rock

Bull Shoals Lake - 2.5 hours from Little Rock

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Location: Northern Arkansas and Southern Missouri — deep in the Ozark Mountains

Recommended For: Anglers, scuba divers, families, and nature lovers seeking a quiet lakeside retreat

What I Love: “A massive crystal-clear lake with rugged shoreline, perfect for fishing, diving, and peaceful escapes.”

  • Unplug and unwind at Bull Shoals Lake, a sprawling 45,000-acre reservoir known for its clear waters and scenic Ozark surroundings.
  • Fish all year—the lake never freezes, allowing for year-round fishing and even spear fishing. Catch trout, crappie, largemouth and smallmouth bass, and catfish.
  • Explore underwater—its exceptional water clarity makes the lake one of the top scuba diving destinations in the Midwest.
  • Swim and sunbathe during the warmer months (May–September) when the mountain-fed water is swimmable, though it stays refreshingly cold.
  • Discover the dam—visit the historic Bull Shoals Dam, completed in 1951, which helped tame the White River and brought hydroelectric power to the region.

Cost: Public access is free; boat rentals and tours may vary by vendor.

Best time to visit: Spring through early fall for warm-weather recreation; fishing and diving are popular year-round.

Local tips: Try scuba diving at designated coves for maximum visibility, and explore quiet inlets via kayak for wildlife sightings.

Distance: About 2 hours from Springfield, MO or 2.5 hours from Little Rock, AR

How to Get to Bull Shoals Lake: Take U.S. Hwy 65 to AR-14 E (if coming from Springfield) or follow AR-5 N to the Bull Shoals-White River State Park area.

Address (General Access Point): Bull Shoals Lake, Ozark Border Region, AR/MO

Romantic Lakes

3. Clearwater Lake - 2.5 hours south of St. Louis

Clearwater Lake - 2.5 hours south of St. Louis

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Location: Southeastern Missouri, near the City of Piedmont, in the heart of the Ozark Mountains

Recommended For: Swimmers, boaters, anglers, and families seeking a peaceful lake getaway

What I Love: “A serene Ozark retreat with excellent water recreation and no lakeside development—just nature and fun.”

  • Escape to nature at Clearwater Lake, a scenic 1,600-acre reservoir created in 1948 by damming the Black River.
  • Play all day—the lake is a hotspot for swimming, boating, canoeing, fishing, and even water-skiing.
  • Enjoy crowd-free shores—the fluctuating water levels (June–September) mean there are no vacation rentals on the lakeshore, preserving its natural vibe.
  • Camp and relax at three nearby parks with easy access to the lake, making it a local favorite weekend spot.
  • Discover Piedmont, a nearby small town offering supplies, local eateries, and a welcoming community for travelers.

Cost: Day-use areas are free; camping and boat rentals vary by location.

Best time to visit: Late spring through early fall, when water levels stabilize and temperatures are ideal for outdoor recreation.

Local tips: Bring your own gear or rent from local vendors—parks nearby offer campsites, ramps, and picnic shelters for a full lakeside experience.

Distance: About 2.5 hours south of St. Louis via US-67 and MO-34

How to Get to Clearwater Lake: From St. Louis, head south on US-67, then take MO-34 west toward Piedmont. Follow signs to Clearwater Dam and recreation areas.

Address (General Access Point): Clearwater Lake, Piedmont, MO 63957

4. Council Bluff Lake - 90 minutes south of St. Louis

Council Bluff Lake - 90 minutes south of St. Louis

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Location: Southern Missouri, at the eastern edge of the 1.5-million-acre Mark Twain National Forest

Recommended For: Hikers, bikers, campers, swimmers, anglers, and outdoor enthusiasts

What I Love: “A forest-wrapped mountain lake with trails, beaches, and unbeatable serenity in every season.”

  • Reconnect with nature at Council Bluff Lake, a 440-acre reservoir nestled in a remote stretch of southern Missouri wilderness.
  • Hit the trails—a 13-mile loop around the lake welcomes hikers and mountain bikers through shaded forested paths with lake views.
  • Swim and relax at Chapel Hill Beach, a family-friendly sandy swimming area open from May to September.
  • Camp under the stars—choose from several campgrounds with options for tent camping or RV hookups.
  • Fish in peace—cast a line for redear sunfish, bluegill, largemouth bass, crappie, and channel catfish in the clear mountain-fed waters.
  • Launch your boat from the northern or southern ramps and explore the lake’s calm surface by kayak, canoe, or small motorboat.

Cost: Day-use and beach fees may apply; camping and launch access vary by site.

Best time to visit: Late spring through early fall for swimming, camping, and full trail access.

Local tips: Bring bug spray in summer, and check trail maps at ranger stations—some paths are multi-use for bikers and hikers alike.

Distance: About 90 minutes south of St. Louis via I-55 and MO-21

How to Get to Council Bluff Lake: Take I-55 south to MO-21 S, continue past Potosi, then follow signs to Council Bluff Recreation Area.

Address (General Access Point): Council Bluff Lake, Mineral Point, MO 63630
Phone: 573-766-5765

5. Fellows Lake - 10 miles north of downtown Springfield

Fellows Lake - 10 miles north of downtown Springfield

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Location: Just north of Springfield, Missouri, in the Ozarks region

Recommended For: Anglers, families, hikers, boaters, and outdoor enthusiasts

What I Love: “A peaceful city reservoir with muskie fishing, kite-flying, and shady picnic spots just minutes from downtown.”

  • Visit Fellows Lake, an 860-acre reservoir formed in 1955 by damming the Little Sac River—today it supplies water to Springfield.
  • Cast your line in one of Missouri’s premier muskellunge fisheries. Other common catches include largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, walleye, muskie, and white bass.
  • Launch from two boat docks or the full-service marina, with storage and rental options available.
  • Relax by the water—this close-to-town lake is a favorite for family barbecues, picnics, hiking, and boating.
  • Fly a kite in the grassy northern park, where breezy conditions and wide-open fields invite simple joys.

Cost: Free public access, though launch and dock fees may apply for boaters.

Best time to visit: Spring through early fall, especially for muskie season and ideal weather for kiting and hiking.

Local tips: Kite enthusiasts should visit on windier days—early spring and late fall offer the best lift.

Distance: About 10 miles north of downtown Springfield, Missouri

How to Get to Fellows Lake: From Springfield, head north on MO-13, then east on E Farm Road 66 to reach the lake’s entrance and marina area.

Address: E Farm Road 66, Springfield, MO 65803
Phone: 417-833-2058

Lakes for Families

6. Harry S. Truman Lake

Harry S. Truman Lake

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Location: Just 1.5 miles from Warsaw in west-central Missouri

Recommended For: Anglers, paddlers, birdwatchers, and families looking for peaceful lake escapes

What I Love: “Missouri’s largest lake delivers tranquil coves, record-setting catfish, and over 950 miles of shoreline to explore.”

  • Experience Truman Lake, a 55,406-acre reservoir created by the Kaysinger Bluff Dam in 1977.
  • Paddle through quiet coves and tributaries, ideal for kayaking and canoeing away from busy boat traffic.
  • Fish Missouri’s biggest lake, known for crappie, largemouth bass, blue catfish, and flathead catfish.
  • Stroll 958 miles of shoreline or set up a remote basecamp for wildlife viewing in protected natural areas.
  • Understand its power—this massive reservoir generates hydroelectric energy and plays a key role in flood control.
  • Trace its outlet along the Osage River, which connects directly to the famed Lake of the Ozarks.

Cost: Free public access; fees may apply at designated boat ramps or campgrounds

Best time to visit: Spring and fall for fishing; summer for paddling and lakefront camping

Local tips: Launch early for calm waters in secluded coves; ask locals about catfish hotspots

Distance: About 95 miles southeast of Kansas City

How to Get to Truman Lake: From Kansas City, take US-50 east to MO-7 south, then continue to Warsaw. Follow signs to boat launches and day-use areas.

Address: Warsaw, MO 65355

7. Lake Jacomo

Lake Jacomo

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Location: Inside Fleming Park, about 15 miles southeast of Kansas City, Missouri

Recommended For: Sailors, kayakers, canoeists, and peaceful weekend anglers

What I Love: “Sailboat-friendly waters, tranquil coves, and a 10-horsepower limit that guarantees quiet escapes.”

  • Glide across Lake Jacomo, a 1,000-acre recreational lake built nearly 50 years ago with sailing at its heart.
  • Explore peaceful inlets by kayak or canoe, with lush woodlands lining narrow coves and arms.
  • Enjoy calm sailing waters—a 10-horsepower motor limit keeps the lake quiet and perfect for unhurried boating.
  • Dock with ease at Sail Boat Cove or the South Boat Dock, which hosts up to 300 boats.
  • Rent boats or refuel at the full-service marina, which offers gas, food, rentals, and weekday fishing access.
  • Fish for variety—target largemouth bass, hybrid striped bass, walleye, crappie, bluegill, catfish, and even carp.

Cost: Free access; fees may apply for boat rentals, mooring, or fishing permits

Best time to visit: Spring through fall for sailing, paddling, and quiet fishing mornings

Local tips: Head to Sail Boat Cove early on weekends to claim mooring space; weekdays offer the calmest waters

Distance: Approximately 15 miles southeast of downtown Kansas City

How to Get to Lake Jacomo: From Kansas City, take I-470 to Woods Chapel Road, then follow signs into Fleming Park. Public parking and docks are clearly marked.

Address: Lake Jacomo, Fleming Park, Missouri

Lakes For Photographers

8. Lake of the Ozarks

Lake of the Ozarks

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Location: Central Missouri, approximately 180 miles from St. Louis and 170 miles from Kansas City

Recommended For: Boaters, anglers, campers, and outdoor lovers seeking a massive lake retreat

What I Love: “Miles of winding shoreline, legendary bass fishing, and two beautiful sandy beaches within a sprawling state park.”

  • Discover Lake of the Ozarks, a 55,000-acre manmade lake with over 1,150 miles of shoreline and a total length of 92 miles.
  • Learn its history—formed in 1929 after the Bagnell Dam was built on the Osage River, it was once the largest artificial lake in the world.
  • Enjoy waterfront access—the majority of the shoreline is privately owned, but Lake of the Ozarks State Park provides public amenities and scenic lakeshore hikes.
  • Hike over 8 miles of trails through rocky ridges, brooks, and scenic bluffs amid native Missouri flora.
  • Fish for bass and more in this stocked lake, which hosts annual fishing tournaments for anglers of all levels.
  • Camp your way—choose between primitive tent spots or more upscale campground options within the state park.
  • Swim anywhere in the lake or head to two sandy beaches ideal for families and sunbathing.

Cost: Free access to many areas; camping, boating, or park permits may have fees

Best time to visit: May through October for the warmest weather, water activities, and events

Local tips: Book campsites early in peak season; explore coves by boat or kayak for solitude even on busy weekends

Distance: 3 hours from both St. Louis and Kansas City by car

How to Get to Lake of the Ozarks: From either city, follow major highways (I-70, US-54) to Osage Beach or other nearby lake towns; parking is available throughout the park and lakeshore marinas.

Address: Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri

9. Lake Taneycomo - Less than 10 minutes from downtown Branson by car

Lake Taneycomo - Less than 10 minutes from downtown Branson by car

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Location: Taney County, Missouri – part of the scenic Branson Tri-Lakes region

Recommended For: Anglers, fly fishers, kayakers, and nature hikers looking for a unique Ozark lake experience

What I Love: “Cold, clear, fast water teeming with trout, and trails that wind through forested banks.”

  • Fish at Lake Taneycomo, renowned for offering some of the best trout fishing in the country.
  • Experience history at Missouri’s first hydroelectric lake, created in 1913 by the Powersite Dam on the White River.
  • Learn how Table Rock Dam transformed the lake in 1958 into a deep, cold, fast-moving river-like body ideal for cold-water fish.
  • Enjoy Empire Park, a favorite spot just above the dam for recreation and lake access.
  • Try fly fishing in challenging but rewarding waters—but use caution when water is released from the upstream dam.
  • Rent a kayak or fishing boat and glide past lush Ozark forested banks.

Cost: Access is generally free; equipment rentals, fishing licenses, and guided tours may require fees

Best time to visit: March to November for prime fishing and outdoor conditions

Local tips: Water can rise quickly when the dam opens—always check the generation schedule before wading or fishing

Distance: Less than 10 minutes from downtown Branson by car

How to Get to Lake Taneycomo: From Branson, head east to Lakeshore Drive or the Branson Landing area for prime lake access and boat rentals; parking is widely available.

Address: Taney County, Missouri

10. Longview Lake - 20 minutes from downtown Kansas City

Longview Lake - 20 minutes from downtown Kansas City

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Location: Northwest Missouri – within the 4,852-acre Longview Lake Park, just minutes from Kansas City

Recommended For: Families, boaters, water-sport lovers, and Kansas City locals seeking quick lake escapes

What I Love: “A full-service marina, sandy beach, and every lake activity you can think of—just minutes from the city.”

  • Relax or play on this 930-acre lake nestled in Longview Lake Park, a regional outdoor hub.
  • Enjoy a wide variety of water sports like swimming, boating, water-skiing, tubing, jet-skiing, pontooning, and sailing.
  • Sunbathe or splash at the lake’s sandy swimming beach.
  • Fish year-round in waters designed for wildlife conservation as part of the Little Blue River Project.
  • Walk or bike on scenic trails with several miles of paved walking paths and 6 miles of bicycle trails.
  • Note water activity restrictions: Windsurfing is allowed only Monday–Thursday; stand-up paddleboards are not permitted.

Cost: Day-use fees may apply for beach access, boat rentals, or parking

Best time to visit: May through September for water sports and full marina services

Local tips: Arrive early on weekends to snag beach space; check the marina for windsurfing hours

Distance: About 20 minutes from downtown Kansas City by car

How to Get to Longview Lake: Take I-470 to Raytown Road or View High Drive, following signs to Longview Lake Park; parking is available at beach and marina access points.

Address: Longview Lake, Missouri

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