The Lake of the Ozarks provides an astounding variety of things to do, both on and off the water, all over the Lake area, and whether you live here year round, visit part of the year, or make the Lake a regular vacation destination, the possibilities for adventure are almost never ending, even if your best adventure is your favorite chair, and a Spectacular view.
Before the Bagnell Dam was built, and Lake of the Ozarks was created, this area of central Missouri has always been a natural attraction, with exuberant woodlands and bountiful lakes, streams, and creeks. This environment is still part of the Lake today, in the stunning volume of terrain protected in the state parks around the Lake, and caves to explore, as well as the myriad of golf courses, wineries, and views that flourish in almost any location. Robert Snyder, an affluent businessman from Kansas city, visited this area often around the turn of the century, and in 1904 purchased 2700 acres in the southern region, including Ha Ha Tonka Lake, with the intention of building a vacation home, the remains of which can still be seen in Ha Ha Tonka State park. After his death, his sons completed the structure, and added cabins and a dining hall, creating the first resort in the area, known as "Lakeside", which granted easy access to boating and fishing, and became a popular destination for city residents.
The creation of the Bagnell Dam brought electricity and roads to the area, and the Lake steadily became a hub of leisure and entertainment activities, increased by the addition of homes and businesses that cater to the growing interest that continues to this day. Whether your looking for water based activities on the Lake, or land based activities in the surrounding areas, the evolution of the Lake of the Ozarks grants a wide range of possibilities to satisfy any impulse or aspirations.
