Perfect Lake of the Ozarks Weekend Getaway Plan

If you’ve been craving a lake trip with jaw-dropping views, endless on-the-water fun, and plenty of good food to fuel your adventure, then it is time to add a Lake of the Ozarks getaway to your list.

This winding, snake-like lake stretches across central Missouri, carving through rugged bluffs and dotted with hidden coves and lively waterfront hangouts that make it one of the most unique freshwater destinations in the country.

We spent a long weekend here in May 2025 and quickly realized why it’s a favorite among boaters, RVers, and anyone looking to mix nature with a little bit of “lake life” energy. Whether you want to hike to castle ruins, hop aboard a boat tour that delivers you to swim-up bars, or just soak up the sunset with a cold drink in hand, this 3-day Lake of the Ozarks itinerary has you covered.

In this guide, we’re breaking down exactly how to plan the perfect weekend at the Lake of the Ozarks: where to stay (with RV-friendly options!), what to do each day, and a few local gems you’ll want to squeeze in before heading home.

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Why Lake of the Ozarks Makes the Perfect Weekend Getaway

Lake of the Ozarks isn’t just a lake, it’s an experience. With over 1,100 miles of shoreline, this meandering lake cuts through Missouri’s Ozark hills like a serpent, forming hundreds of hidden coves, scenic overlooks, and waterfront access points that make every visit feel like your own little adventure.

colorful paper map of the Lake of the Ozarks

legend of things to do and restaurants on the map of Lake of the Ozarks

The landscape is rugged and wild in the best way. You’ll find tall bluffs, craggy rock formations, and wooded trails that drop straight into crystal-clear water. It’s the kind of place where you can spend your morning hiking to castle ruins and your afternoon sipping drinks beside a swim-up bar all without ever needing to leave the lake.

There is a reason why Lake of the Ozarks draws RVers, boaters, couples, and weekend warriors year after year: the variety. Whether you’re here to fish, float, hike, or hit the lakefront party scene, there’s a spot (or five) for that.

Just one heads-up: if you’re visiting early in the season (like we did in mid-May), some things may not be open yet or they might be on their winter schedule still. Some seasonal attractions and restaurants kick off closer to Memorial Day, so it’s worth checking ahead if you have your heart set on something specific.

Where to Stay at Lake of the Ozarks (RV and Resort Options)

We stayed at Ozarks Landing RV Resort, and other than having to navigate some tight turns, we really enjoyed it! The sites are on the snug side, but the campground sits right on the Osage River and has a super convenient location for exploring the area. With full hookups, a peaceful atmosphere, and more of a cozy community vibe than a party scene, it was exactly what we were looking for.

view of Alliance Valor fifth wheel with a side patio overlooking the river

If you’re scouting for alternatives, here are a couple of other popular options:

Lake Breeze Resort – A great fit if you’ve got friends or family tagging along without an RV. They offer cabins and lakefront lodging, plus boat slips and a laid-back setting away from the main hustle.
Deer Valley RV Park – this campground is large, and while they may not be the nicest sites you’ve ever stayed in, they are right by Franky & Louie’s, one of the popular hangout spots on Lake of the Ozarks
Coconuts RV Resort – here is another campground located by a popular lakefront hangout. The advantage of this park is they have concrete pads and are BIG-RIG friendly! They have nightly rates as well as annual rate options.

Tips for choosing your stay:

If you plan to explore the Bagnell Dam Strip or join a boat tour, aim for a central location. Ozarks Landing RV Resort was great for this.
Larger RVs should double-check site length and park layout as not every campground is big-rig friendly.
Some campgrounds are social and lively, others are tucked-away and serene. Pick your preferred lake vibe.

Day 1 – Arrive, Settle In, and Explore the Bagnell Dam Strip

After getting your RV parked and leveled (or checking into your room if you’re not RVing this trip), it’s time to dive into the fun — and there’s no better place to start than the Bagnell Dam Strip.

If you drive over the dam, it is NARROW! We had to fold our mirrors in on the dually.

This nostalgic stretch of shops, arcades, bars, and lakeside energy feels like the unofficial heartbeat of Lake of the Ozarks. You’ll find souvenir stores, people-watching galore, and that unmistakable summer-in-the-Midwest buzz that makes this area so memorable.

Neon Taco

Start with a bite at Neon Taco which is located right by the dam and has its own dock if you’re arriving by boat. It’s loud, colorful, and unapologetically fun… think mechanical bull by the road, vibrant décor, and a party-forward atmosphere.

exterior view of Neon Taco from their private docks. The building is hot pink and turquoise and has beer signs as well as a bright sign that says Neon Taco.

They’ve got both indoor and outdoor seating, and the food is more than just an afterthought. Morgan had the Crunchy Wrap while Alan went for the Trashy Chicken Tacos and both of us were impressed.

crunchy wrap and fries on a tray with Neon Taco paper underneath

Bonus: we visited on Mother’s Day and they were offering women of legal age a free margarita. We will definitely eat here again.

Alley Cats Pizzeria

Just a short walk away (about 0.2 miles), you’ll find Alley Cats Pizzeria. While it doesn’t have a lake view like some of our other suggestions, it does have what might be the coldest beer on the strip. Their pretzel bites and pizza hit the spot. It is perfect for a low-key, satisfying stop if you’re not in the mood for the louder lakefront scene.

Visit the History Tree

History Tree which is a large log from an old redwood tree that is laying in a grassy field with mature trees in the background

Also nearby is the massive History Tree (located behind Dogpatch Arcade). It is an old redwood with a trunk nearly 9 feet in diameter. Experts believe the tree is over 1000 years old!

tall man standing in front of the history tree

To put things into perspective, Alan is 6’1″. When we say this thing is huge, we mean HUGE!

This is one of those quick detours that delivers major “whoa” factor, especially if you’re into local landmarks or just want a great photo opp.

Hot Summer Nights

If your visit falls on a 2025 Hot Summer Nights date (May 9, June 13, July 11, August 8, or September 5), plan to be on the strip by 5pm. This classic car cruise-in features live music, games, and some seriously cool rides . It is one of the best recurring events at the lake.

Pro Tip: arrive early to find parking!

Evening (Dinner Optional) Cruise

To wind down your first evening, consider booking the sunset dinner cruise through Cruise Lake of the Ozarks. Boarding at 5:30pm and returning around 7:30pm, this easy-going ride offers dinner on board and a scenic view of the lake without needing to captain anything yourself.

Day 2 – Ha Ha Tonka State Park Adventure + Water Fun

Start your second day with a visit to Ha Ha Tonka State Park. We think this is a must-see destination for anyone who loves dramatic scenery and a bit of history. It’s also dog-friendly, so Coco got to come along too!

This destination was approximately 20 minutes from where we stayed (Ozarks Landing RV Resort) but 100% worth the drive time.

We recommend beginning your morning with a few key highlights:

Ha Ha Tonka Castle Ruins on a hill with green grass in front and mature trees surrounding it

The Castle Ruins: Built in the early 1900s and later destroyed by fire, these ruins sit atop a bluff with incredible views of the lake. The short trail is mostly paved and the overlook is well worth the easy walk.

The Natural Bridge: A separate, quick 330-foot hike (each direction) takes you to a massive natural bridge/tunnel. It’s shady and quiet in the morning and only takes about 10–15 minutes roundtrip.

shady wooden boardwalk adjacent to a body of water with mature trees covering the boardwalk

natural bridge/tunnel formed out of rock surrounded by trees and rocks

end of the boardwalk that leads to a tight path through large boulders/rocks

If you’re up for more activity, consider tackling the Spring Trail Loop, a 1.5-mile moderately challenging hike that brings you to the turquoise-colored spring, wooden boardwalks, and quiet, shaded paths.

After hiking, we suggest a picnic lunch by the lake. Then you’ve got two great choices:

kayakers on Lake of the Ozarks inside of Ha Ha Tonka State Park

Rent a kayak or paddleboard from the park and explore the calm waters not far from the spring.
Or, if you’d rather cruise the lake in style, head back to the Bagnell Dam area to board the Lake Hopper Bar Excursion. This is a 6-hour shuttle cruise that leaves at 11am (boards at 10:30am) and makes stops at waterfront party hubs like Shady Gators and Coconuts. Be sure to book ahead as this one sells out fast.

Shady Gators / Lazy Gators pool with swim up bar — Lazy Gators / Shady Gators Pool before they opened

Lazy Gator pool bar sign with rules and 2025 Event Schedule

Pro Tip: even if you don’t take the boat cruise, you can drive to these popular hangouts. Lazy Gators even has cabanas you can rent (perfect for people like Morgan who burn easily).

Either way, Day 2 is about seeing the natural side of the lake and cooling off in the water before wrapping up with a relaxing evening back at camp or your resort.

Dinner Options: Head back to the Bagnell Dam Strip to try another restaurant or stay at your home base and enjoy something quiet.

Day 3 – Hidden Gems, Chill Vibes, and a Sunset Send-Off

After two full days of exploring, your final day is all about winding down but that doesn’t mean you have to stop adventuring. Today’s itinerary mixes laid-back moments with just enough activity to make it memorable.

Missouri’s Caves and Caverns

Start the day with something unique like a visit to Bridal Cave, one of the most scenic and story-rich caves in Missouri. The guided tour leads you through stunning formations, underground lakes, and towering cathedral-like chambers. If you’ve got time, it’s worth the short drive and gives you a break from the sun. This is also a solid indoor option if the weather’s iffy.

Pro Tip: you might want to bring a jacket. The temperature remains at 60 degrees year-round.

Go Fishing!

Prefer something slower-paced? Try your luck at fishing on the Osage River or directly on the Lake of the Ozarks.

man fishing in a blue pond with green grass on the banks and RVs in the background

Alan enjoyed fishing in a stocked pond at Ozarks Landing RV Resort as well as on the Osage River. He might not have caught anything *cough cough* but he had fun anyways!

Whether you’re casting from shore or just tossing in a line for fun, it’s a great way to slow down and connect with nature.

Lake of the Ozarks Helicopter Tour

For those who would rather see the lake from above, Lake Ozark Helicopters offers aerial tours that give you a bird’s-eye view of the winding shoreline.

The best part? They have different length flights that allow you to see different things. This also means there are some options that are significantly more affordable than others.

If you’re into big views and bucket list moments, this one hits.

End your trip with a sunset dinner at Dog Days Bar & Grill, a lakefront favorite with great food, a laid-back vibe, and the kind of view that makes you want to stay one more day. They offer indoor and outdoor seating, a swim-up pool bar, and even have their own dock… so whether you’re arriving by car or boat, you’re covered!

Final Tips for Your Lake of the Ozarks Getaway

Before you pack up and roll out, here are a few last things to know that can make your trip smoother, more fun, and a little less stressful:

Don’t be confused by the road signs. Missouri uses both single and double letters (like “F,” “HH,” or “KK”) for state and county roads. It might look strange if you’re not used to it, but it’s totally normal around here.
Pack for variety – You’ll want comfy clothes for hiking, swimwear for the lake, and a light jacket for those breezy evenings. Footwear: bring both trail shoes and flip-flops.
Bring bug spray and sunscreen – This is Missouri in the summer… enough said.
Snag a copy of the official Lake of the Ozarks Vacation & Service Guide – We found ours at a local restaurant, and the detachable lake map is incredibly useful. It marks restaurants, boat stops, attractions, and more. It is definitely worth keeping on hand.
Go bigger if you’re renting a boat – Small boats can be more dangerous because of the massive wakes during busy weekends. Either rent something larger or join a guided cruise or water taxi service.
Osage Beach is your hub for essentials – Whether you forgot groceries, need gas, or want to stock up before heading out, this is where you’ll find the most options.

Have fun! This is a destination for good times. If you don’t plan on bringing a positive attitude and a smile, this is probably not the destination for you.

Want to Switch It Up Something on The Itinerary?
Here Are Some Alternative Ideas

Looking to mix and match your weekend plans or extend your stay a few extra days? Here are some other awesome spots and activities to consider around the Lake of the Ozarks:

More to Explore

Lake of the Ozarks State Park – Great for hiking, biking, or spending time by the water. A quieter alternative to the more touristy areas. This is a FREE option.
Ozark Caverns (located inside Lake of the Ozarks State Park) – Smaller, guided lantern tours with a raw and more natural feel. Check the tour times in advance as they are only offered a few times a day. Unfortunately they were closed during our visit but we were told it is worth visiting.
Stark Caverns – Known for its well-lit passageways, ancient fossils, and unique underground lake.
Jacob’s Cave – Missouri’s largest walk-through cave, with reflective pools and colorful mineral formations. Depending on where you are staying, these option could be up to 1 hour away. You may want to check drive time before you add this activity to your itinerary.

Lively Restaurants

Franky & Louie’s Beachfront Bar & Grill – Located at Deer Valley RV Park, this lakeside hangout has a dock, sandy beach, roped-off swimming area, and a fun, casual vibe that’s perfect for groups or families.
Coconuts at the Lake – A high-energy spot with a pool, swim-up bars, a small waterpark, and a dock. Located next to Coconuts RV Resort, it’s great for party seekers who want the full lakefront experience. We did not eat here but heard great things about their food. It will be a “must do” thing on our next trip.
Backwater Jacks – A lively bar and grill featuring a dock, pool, and swim-up bars. Known for great food, strong drinks, and a festive, vacation-ready vibe.

Other Unique Experiences

Parasailing – Get a bird’s-eye view of the lake while catching some serious air. Great for thrill seekers and surprisingly peaceful once you’re up there.
Playin Hooky – this is an another water taxi/shuttle option on Lake of the Ozarks