Table Rock Lake

Table Rock Lake is the natural counterpart to Branson's show-and-theme-park culture -- a 43,000-acre reservoir with 800 miles of shoreline, crystal-clear water, and Ozark Mountain scenery that provides families with days of outdoor recreation.

The water clarity is Table Rock's distinguishing feature. Fed by springs and managed for water quality, the lake has visibility that surprises visitors expecting a murky Midwest reservoir. Kids wearing goggles can see fish, rocks, and the sandy bottom in many areas. This clarity makes swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking more engaging than at typical lakes.

Table Rock State Park provides the most accessible family beach access. A sandy swimming beach with lifeguards (summer), restrooms, picnic shelters, and a marina sits at the base of the dam. Parking is $5. The state park also has hiking trails through Ozark forest, campsites, and the marina that rents kayaks, paddleboards, and canoes.

For a more expansive lake experience, pontoon boat rentals ($250-400/day from various marinas) let families cruise the extensive shoreline, finding hidden coves, quiet swimming spots, and cliff-jumping areas. The 800 miles of shoreline mean you can always find solitude, even on busy summer weekends.

Fishing is excellent. Table Rock is a nationally recognized bass fishing lake, with largemouth and smallmouth bass, crappie, catfish, and walleye. Kids fishing from the shore or a rented boat regularly catch fish, which keeps them engaged. Missouri non-resident fishing licenses ($10-15/day) are available at marinas and bait shops.

The lake is surrounded by Ozark Mountain forest, giving it a more natural feel than many reservoirs. The White River below the dam offers trout fishing (the cold water release from the dam creates ideal trout habitat). Top of the Rock, a development by Bass Pro Shops founder Johnny Morris, overlooks the lake and includes a nature trail, cave, and upscale restaurant with panoramic lake views.