Lake of the Ozarks, MO

"Best recreational lake in the nation has a big heart"

Nominated by Rebecca Rupard

Things 1-4 and the Cat in the Hat dive into a good cause at the Polar Bear Plunge — good thing this feline’s not afraid of water. (Credit: Lake of the Ozarks CVB)

Central Missouri’s Lake of the Ozarks has been welcoming visitors since the lake’s creation in 1932. And, when we say “welcoming,” we mean it. The Lake is known for its generous hospitality, warmth, and friendliness. Five million visitors travel to the Lake of the Ozarks each year, generation after generation bringing their families to enjoy the myriad activities and events because they can’t get enough of the Lake and its friendly locals. Although we’re best known for our outstanding recreational activities and hospitality, we’re also a very kind and warmhearted community that takes pride in looking after each other and making our home, and the world, a better and brighter place. The Lake of the Ozarks hosts numerous events throughout the year to raise millions of dollars for a wide variety local charities and services, which is something we are extremely proud of.

Skippers strap on their lifejackets at the Lake of the Ozarks Shootout’s Wish Upon a Ride event. (Credit: Lake of the Ozarks CVB)

Stories About Lake of the Ozarks

There are countless stories of day-to-day kindness, warmth, and generosity at the Lake of the Ozarks. We’d like to focus on how our community extends its generosity to improve the lives of others that live in the area and around the state, emphasizing several organizations and Lake-wide events that strive to be a guiding light and give back to those in need: