8 Best Lakeside Towns in Missouri
Have you ever felt the urge to escape, maybe slip away to a nearby lake and let your worries dissolve like ripples on the water? Not everyone enjoys fishing or kayaking, but a lakeside view is something most of us can appreciate, and the eight best lakeside towns in Missouri have a way of giving a sense of peace that soothes the soul. The Show-Me State, Mother of the West, the Cave State — whatever you choose to call Missouri, this land has seen people come and go since 9000 BCE; back then, these humid plains saw more of the likes of Mississippian culture. Today, visitors gravitate to Lake of the Ozarks, explore the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, and experience live shows in Branson. You will not be disappointed in any of these gorgeous lakeside towns if you are looking for a bit of peace and culture.
Camdenton
Beautifully positioned south of the main mass of the Lake of the Ozarks, Camdenton is a prime location in many ways. The nearby Ha Ha Tonka State Park has some historical significance, with ruins of an early 1900s-era castle for you to explore. There are many sights to see, but coming to Camdenton means coming to the Ozarks Amphitheater. This live venue brings in regional and national acts and is a must-visit. The town also offers public access to Bridal Cave, a massive cave system near the lake with guided tours. The best part about Camdenton is the comfort it provides, simply by its size; smaller towns allow for a less crowded experience.
Osage Beach
A lot of people gather at the Osage Beach Outlet Marketplace, as this small town is quite the commercial hub. The best part about coming here, though, has to be the nearby trails. The Lake of the Ozarks State Park provides long walkways with gorgeous lake views. Speaking of which, the town also has a maritime history: public docks and boat rentals are readily available if you wish to explore the Lake of the Ozarks. The dining scene is not something to pass up either, not when there are several waterfront restaurants, like Redhead Lakeside Grill and Yacht Club, which serves fresh fish near Miller Hollow Cove.
Sunrise Beach
In the quiet heart of the Lake of the Ozarks, Sunrise Beach is where you will find the Hurricane Deck Bridge, a historical landmark built in 1936. The town is not tourist-heavy compared to its neighboring towns, and you can enjoy family activities like going to Captain Ron's Bar & Grill, which also hosts the annual Lake of the Ozarks Shootout. Many anglers come to Sunrise Beach for the crappie and bass fishing tournaments, but you can enjoy the famous lake just about anywhere, even if you are not headed directly to the boating and camping reservoir.
Warsaw
Warsaw is near Truman Lake, a great option for a tranquil stay. Instead of going directly to experience the unmatched boating opportunities, a bit of history might be beneficial. Named after the 33rd president of the United States, the Harry S. Truman Visitor Center helps educate travelers on dam construction and hydropower. Speaking of education, the Benton County Museum also gives a bit of history when it comes to the town’s early settlement days. Warsaw’s Main Street preserves its 19th-century brick storefronts and leads to Lay Park, a great place to unwind by the Osage River.
Kimberling City
Another great candidate for the best lakeside towns in Missouri, Kimberling City sits along Table Rock Lake, known for its crystal-clear waters. An engineering marvel is part of this region's charm: The nearby Table Rock Dam, completed in the 1950s to control flooding. You can make that 30-minute drive to see it or check out the marina services around West Fisher Creek. The Port of Kimberling Marina is where most visitors enjoy their stay. The town's proximity to Talking Rocks Cavern, many hiking trails, campgrounds like Port of Kimberling Campground, and the town of Branson makes it conveniently located near all the hotspots while retaining small-town peace.
Hermann
A town with a strong German heritage, and it is known for its wineries that were built by German settlers in the 19th century. Near the Missouri River, Hermann enjoys several smaller lake parks in the area with some beautiful 19th-century brick buildings still in use. After basking in the architecture, you can take a short drive to Rock Bridge Memorial State Park to see its natural rock formations; otherwise, the town has some excellent historical places like the Deutschheim State Historic Site. If you make your way south of town, you might also be inclined to unwind near See Tal Lake, although many visitors prefer to stay close to the Missouri River.
Clinton
A historic downtown has emerged in Clinton, with the town square featuring the Clinton Courthouse, proudly listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The town also enjoys close proximity to Katy Trail State Park, which passes near Clinton, making it a perfect hub for cyclists. It is also within easy reach of Truman Reservoir, perfect for fishing and water sports. The Henry County Museum tells the story of early settlers who arrived in the area during the town’s early days. In addition, tourists and locals alike enjoy places like Artesian Park, but most of all many people like fishing or boating south of town or hiking.
Eldon
Residents of Eldon enjoy peaceful access to the Lake of the Ozarks, just a short drive away, and this small town combines lake life with affordable housing, making it one of the best places to live, or simply visit. The town hosts the Eldon Turkey Festival each fall, something to liven up the local farming history. More about the town’s past can be learned at the Eldon Depot Museum with its collection of original railroad items. The Willmore Lodge houses quite a few exhibits and stores the town’s lake history. It is not a bad idea to pack up some gear and head to the lake or simply relax at one of the many recreational areas, like Rock Island Park.
Final Thoughts
Settlements, towns, and cities naturally gravitate towards bodies of water, not just because of the life they harbor, but also the peaceful life they promise. Missouri enjoys quite a bit of tranquility in its lakeside towns, and a little peace and quiet could do everyone some good. There is something about the sound of a flowing river, the ripples in a lake, coupled with the sight of greenery that puts one at ease, and everyone can relate to the restfulness such lakeside towns offer. Consider visiting each of the eight best lakeside towns in Missouri.
