Osage BeachUnited States of America

Water-based activities abound in the community of Osage Beach stretching along the shores of man-made Lake of the Ozarks. Join a tour on the lake or rent a boat to steer your own adventure.

Originally known as Zebra, Osage Beach was first established in 1886. When the Bagnell Dam was completed in 1931, creating the man-made Lake of the Ozarks, the local post office was rebuilt at a cliff overlooking the new lake and the name Osage Beach was adopted. With its position at the heart of Lake of the Ozarks, Osage Beach is a popular summer vacation spot. Join the summer population swell.

The biggest attraction in town is Lake of the Ozarks. Sign up for waterskiing or wakeboarding lessons, take a narrated boat cruise or rent a pontoon boat and explore independently.

The 92-acre (37-hectare) Osage Beach City Park backs onto the lakefront. Fish in the park’s stocked pond, let the kids enjoy the playground or kick a ball at the park’s soccer fields. This park is adjacent to the much larger Lake of the Ozarks State Park, which contains swimming beaches as well as hiking, biking, horseback riding and cycling trails. Look for the park’s landmark Swinging Bridge. Park nearby and walk across the wobbly structure.

During nice weather, venture to one of the area’s golf courses to hone your skills. Osage Beach has many courses to choose from, including Bear Creek Valley Golf Club, Osage National Golf Club and The Oaks Golf Club at Tan Tar A Resort.

On rainy days, take shelter at the indoor Timber Falls Water Park. Speed down the twin slides, float along the lazy river and relax in the hot tub. Osage Beach Premium Outlets featuring discounted merchandise is another good wet-weather activity.

Osage Beach straddles Camden and Miller counties in central Missouri. It is about a 45-minute drive from Jefferson City and Lebanon. Rent a car for the best way to get around.