Lake Ozark combines the engineering history of Bagnell Dam with the historic Bagnell Dam Strip, Willmore Lodge and opportunities for golf and boat rentals. The sites and activities offer different highlights, from construction history and scenic views to events and recreation on the water. This helps you decide what you want to shape your stay, then look for a hotel in Lake Ozark.
Bagnell Dam: Structure and Viewpoints
Bagnell Dam is a concrete gravity structure. Its crest is 2,543 feet long, and its maximum height above the bedrock is 148 feet. On the downstream side, a fish and bird observation area is located along a walkway to the main office of the Osage Energy Center.
The Bagnell Dam Overlook offers a different perspective: This multi-use day-use area sits on a hill and provides views of the dam, the lake and the lower Osage River. The observation area and overlook therefore offer different vantage points on the dam and its surroundings.
Willmore Lodge and the City's History
Construction of the dam began on August 8, 1929, and was completed in April 1931. Willmore Lodge was built in 1930 as an administrative building for the dam project. Today, the Lake Area Chamber of Commerce uses the building as a visitor center; its visiting hours may change, so check them before your visit. The lodge also houses the Bagnell Dam History Museum.
A walking path at Willmore Lodge leads to lakeside gardens and a pavilion. The city's development is also connected to the construction of the dam: after it was completed in 1931, businesses on the west side of the dam reopened. This area is now known as the City of Lake Ozark.
The Strip and Recurring Events
The historic Bagnell Dam Strip, known locally as “The Strip,” offers family-friendly attractions as well as a wide range of dining and entertainment options. Events add to these offerings at various times throughout the year: Rally on the Strip is a four-day motorcycle event on the Strip. For more than 40 years, the Lake of the Ozarks Christmas Parade has traveled along Bagnell Dam Boulevard. The St. Patrick’s Parade is also held there as a recurring family event.
If an event is important to your travel plans, check its dates against your travel dates before booking. For Rally on the Strip, it is also a good idea to check current road closure notices. The events offer different reasons to visit, but their specific dates and programs may change.
Boat Rentals, Road Orientation and Golf
Visitors to Lake Ozark have easy access to boat and personal watercraft rentals. Individual providers and availability may change, so check what's on offer for the days you want. For road orientation: Business 54, also known as Bagnell Dam Boulevard, provides access to Bagnell Dam, Horseshoe Bend Parkway and the Community Bridge.
Golf is another option: The Cove is the signature golf course designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr. at The Lodge of Four Seasons in Lake Ozark. The course has 18 holes, is par 71 and has championship status. Tee times can be booked online or by phone.
When looking for a hotel in Lake Ozark, you can use your travel dates and planned activities as a guide. Especially if a parade or rally date is a deciding factor, it's worth checking the event dates against your planned stay before booking.
Discover more destinations: Eldon.
For the broader travel overview: Miller County.
