Known for its excellent recreation possibilities drawing visitors from miles around, Lake of the Ozarks was created by impounding the Osage River. In large part thanks to the Bagnell Dam, this area is now a hotspot for water enthusiasts. On your getaway to Lake of the Ozarks, add a stop at the Bagnell Dam to see where it all began.
Visiting the Bagnell Dam in Lakeside, MO
The Bagnell Dam Missouri was completed in 1931 and was named for the nearby town of Bagnell. While you won’t find a lot of information on the history of the dam if you visit, the structure is still impressive, standing at 45 meters tall and 775 meters long. Locals can often be spotted fishing from rocks surrounding the dam while birds soar overhead. A lookout point provides a nice view of the dam and water beyond.
Nearby the dam is an area known as the Bagnell Dam Strip. Here you’ll find options for dining, entertainment, and shopping. Pick up Lake of the Ozarks memorabilia in one of the many t-shirt shops, or keep the family entertained with a stop in the arcade. Grandma’s Candy Kitchen offers a tempting selection of fudge and saltwater taffy great for giving as gifts or enjoying later from the comfort of your Lake of the Ozarks vacation rental!
Where to Eat Near the Bagnell Dam, Missouri
The Bagnell Dam Strip is lined with a variety of restaurants and pubs, offering casual bites to eat and plenty of drinks. One of the more popular eateries along this strip is Tucker’s Shuckers Oyster & Tap, open daily from 11am-midnight. Tucker’s Shuckers offers both indoor and outdoor seating, with a pleasant dining area on the upper-level deck. This eatery is known for their oysters and beer on tap, although they also offer a diversified menu with burgers, sandwiches, salads, and steaks. Start your meal with an order of steak fondue, which consists of bite-sized pieces of steak and bread with queso for dipping. For mains, consider an order of their oysters on the half shell. The prime rib philly sandwich is also a favorite, washed down with one of their beers on tap. If there’s any room left for dessert, the fried turtle cheesecake is a real indulgence!
Vacation Accommodations in Lake of the Ozarks
Enjoy convenient access to Lake of the Ozarks sights such as the Bagnell Dam, as well as unbeatable access to the waterfront from our Lake of the Ozarks vacation rentals. Contact us to learn more!