The Most Snake Infested Lakes in Missouri

Missouri, known for its diverse flora and fauna, palpable in plenty of natural areas, is a wellspring of opportunity for outdoor enthusiasts. With sites like Rocky Falls, Montauk Springs, and Table Rock Lake, waterside areas beckon people from all over. That said, along with humans, animals, such as snakes, are also privy to these bodies of water. With over 45 species of snakes, out of which five are venomous, it is essential to know which lakes are home to snakes. Thus, this article delves into Missouri's most snake-infested lakes so you can be safe when swimming, boating, or even hiking along these scenic lakes.

Table Rock Lake

In southwestern Missouri and northwestern Arkansas, Table Rock Lake is one of the state’s most popular attractions. This reservoir was created in the 1950s by the Table Rock Dam and now boasts an impressive surface area of over 43,000 acres. To this end, it is a great place for boating, scuba diving, fishing, and swimming. Moreover, the coast is full of life, with sixteen public campgrounds and plenty of hiking areas that offer visitors a complete outdoor experience. Add on the crystal clear water and magnificent Ozark backdrop for an environment like no other.

Along with humans, Table Rock Lake’s scenic surroundings are also home to multiple species of snakes. Some of the most common are the ring-necked snake, western rat snake, pygmy rattlesnake, and common watersnake. The common watersnake is the most experienced in the water, as it has immense agility and maneuverability. This species features a brown or reddish coloration with dark crossbands that help it stand out. It is also quite large, with some specimens reaching lengths of up to 4 feet 5 inches (135 cm). Thankfully, the common watersnake is not venomous, so as long as you maintain some distance, there shouldn’t be any problems.

Smithville Lake

Smithville Lake is another one of Missouri’s reservoirs with immense opportunity. On the Platte River in Clay County, this lake was created in the late 1970s by the Smithville Dam. Today, it is a scenic lake with a surface area of over 7,000 acres and a quaint shoreline of 175 miles. It boasts a large swimming area ideal for the whole family as well as boat rentals for an exploration into the waters. Those who want to relax along the waters can sunbathe on one of the two beaches, Camp Branch Beach and Little Platte Beach, each offering a range of trails, marinas, and historical sites.

Smithville Lake is also one of Missouri’s most snake-infested bodies of water, with many non-venomous and venomous snakes. DeKay’s brown snake is the most common, with a brown to gray coat and a length of up to 19 inches (49 cm). While it is non-venomous, this snake can be violent if provoked, so giving it a wide berth is advisable. Other snakes found in the region include the common watersnake, garter snake, and the venomous eastern copperhead.

Lake Of The Ozarks

Lake of The Ozarks, also known as “the Missouri Dragon” for its unique serpentine shape, is another lake full of snakes in Missouri. Some of the most common species in and around this lake are the common water snake, western rat snake, speckled king snake, and DeKay’s brown snake. The western rat snake is one that you’ll likely see in the waters, as these snakes boast impressive skill in the water. In terms of appearance, the average adult has a length between 3 feet 6 inches and 6 feet (106.5 cm and 183 cm) with a glossy black or gray coloration. These snakes are also excellent climbers, so you should keep your eyes on both the water and trees when in this lake. Apart from these non-venomous species, the eastern copperhead is also an occasional sight, so it's best to avoid any and all snakes here.

Apart from the snakes, Lake of The Ozarks is a beautiful reservoir in Missouri’s Ozark Mountains. It boasts a surface area of 54,000 acres and a massive shoreline of 1,150 miles, bolstered by its unique shape. The lake is home to various recreational areas like the Lake of the Ozarks State Park and also hosts events such as powerboat races, a polar bear plunge, and more. So, as long as you avoid the snakes, it is a must-visit for outdoor lovers.

Harry S. Truman Reservoir

Named after the former president of Missouri, Harry S. Truman, the Truman Reservoir is the largest body of water on this list. With an area of 55,500 acres normally and 200,000 acres at flood stage, it is essential to manage floods in the region. The lake is also a vital point for power generation, wildlife management, and recreation. Those here for recreation can choose between nearby landmarks like the Truman Visitor Center and the Harry S. Truman State Park. The former boasts a 67-seat theatre with wildlife shows, while the latter offers 1,440 acres of boating, camping, swimming, hiking, and more.

While camping or swimming on the scenic coast of the Truman Reservoir, it is essential to be alert as this is one of Missouri’s snake-infested lakes. The most likely sight is the brownish silhouette of the common water snake, which can often be seen slithering along shallow areas. Similarly, the darker western rat snake is commonplace, with plenty of climbing trees along the shoreline. One lesser-known snake found here is the prairie kingsnake, a medium-sized snake known for its brown to grey coloration. This snake is mainly seen in coastal forests, hidden under logs or debris, and will make a “rattle” "-like sound when threatened. Thankfully, visitors can rest assured as all these species are non-venomous.

Snakes and Missouri’s Lakes: Be Aware, Not Alarmed

In Missouri's picturesque lakes, snakes are an ever-present part of the landscape, but with awareness, your outdoor experience can remain safe and enjoyable. Each lake has unique wildlife, from the common watersnake at Table Rock Lake to the western rat snake at Lake of the Ozarks and the prairie kingsnake at Truman Reservoir. By giving these snakes their space, you can enjoy Missouri's lakes' natural beauty and recreational opportunities. So, whether you're swimming, boating, or hiking, these scenic lakes are well worth the visit.