10 Things to Do at Lake of the Ozarks for Families

Nicknamed “The Magic Dragon” because of its unique snake-like shape, Lake of the Ozarks is a perfect destination for families looking to enjoy a variety of fun and engaging activities. 

Boasting a 1,150-mile shoreline and multiple arms, you’ll find plenty of fun things to do at Lake of the Ozarks for families. From hiking its scenic surroundings to go-carting, mini-golfing, and exploring other kid-friendly attractions, there’s something for everyone.

Whether you’re seeking adventure or beachfront relaxation in the heart of Missouri, the Lake of the Ozarks offers a delightful mix of adventures. Get ready to spend a couple of days exploring the lake while staying at one of the Ozarks vacation homes to create a memorable family vacation.

Let’s dive in!

1. Visit Lake of the Ozarks State Park

Lake of the Ozark State Park is an excellent place for families to go hiking, swimming, biking, and boating, to mention a few. Its expansive size also makes it a favorite among regular campers and those looking for a peaceful family picnic along its lengthy shoreline. 

Lake of the Ozarks is also one of the best kayaking and fishing spots in the USA, so don’t miss out on those kid-friendly activities. The state park’s numerous trails provide a fantastic opportunity for kids to explore and discover nature. 

Sandy beaches along the lakeshore are ideal for building sandcastles and enjoying a refreshing dip. If your kids are budding history buffs, take a historic site tour through Civil War battlefields and Harry S. Truman and Mark Twain’s birthplace.

2. Explore Bridal Cave

Looking for an eerie family activity? Look no further than Bridal Cave. You can discover the wonders of the cave through guided tours that take you through stunning rock formations and underground lakes. There are family-friendly tours suitable for all ages. These are engaging and educational, highlighting the cave’s spooky formations.

Kids will be fascinated by the stalactites and stalagmites, while the history and legends of the cave add an educational twist to the adventure. The cave maintains a comfortable temperature year-round, making it a great activity regardless of the weather. 

3. Splash Around at Big Surf Waterpark

For a day of splashing fun and thrilling rides, visit Big Surf Waterpark. There’s something for children of all ages here, from wave pools and water slides to a lazy river for a leisurely float. 

Tropical Splash Island is a special area suitable for children five years old and under, ensuring everyone can enjoy the water safely. This area features waters ranging from six to 18 inches, a water teeter-totter, squirting animals, and mini-slides to splash and play. 

For dry activities, you can enjoy a game of volleyball, basketball, and ping-pong. There’s also a children’s playground and a sandbox for younger kids.

4. Go Hiking at Ha Ha Tonka State Park

Home to the ruins of a 20th-century castle, sinkholes, caves, and a massive natural bridge, Ha Ha Tonka State Park offers a unique backdrop for family photos and exploration. The park features many hiking trails traversing through scenic overlooks and natural springs.

Kids will love the adventure of exploring the Ha Ha Tonka castle ruins and the beautiful landscapes that surround them. The series of hiking trails and boardwalks make it easier for you to explore the park’s various terrains, from lush woodlands to rocky open valleys.

There are 20 picnic areas scattered across the state park, so you can enjoy a lovely lunch after hiking and exploring to your heart’s content. 

5. Grab Lunch at Malted Monkey and Dessert at Grandma’s Candy Kitchen

Take a break from exploring the Lake of the Ozarks and sit down for a delicious meal at Malted Monkey, where the family-friendly menu offers something for all taste buds. The restaurant offers ropes courses available for people over 40 feet tall and under 300 pounds.

Their menu features American cuisine, such as smash burgers, chicken sandwiches, and handcrafted shakes that will leave you wanting more. After lunch, head to Grandma’s Candy Kitchen for a tasty dessert. Choose from an array of confectionaries like fudge and taffy. 

6. Go Mini-Golfing at Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf

Engage in a friendly mini-golfing competition at Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf. Featuring pirate-themed holes set amidst waterfalls, streams, and lush landscaping, Pirate’s Cove is a fantastic place to enjoy the outdoors and engage in some physical activity.

Nestled in the heart of Osage Beach, this mini-golf course offers a fun and interactive way for the whole family to spend time together, and the creative course design captivates kids. Choose between the 36-hole adventure and an all-day pass, depending on how long you’d like to be there. Children four years old and under can play for free, accompanied by a paying adult.

7. Attend a Kid-Friendly Show at Main Street Music Hall

Enjoy an evening of fun at the Main Street Music Hall, which offers family-friendly shows ranging from musical performances to comedy acts. Proudly the entertainment hub of the Lake of the Ozarks for decades, the hall boasts a remarkable 1,000-seat Victorian theater.

You can opt for the famous “The Best of Main Street Opry,” a variety show incorporating some of the Ozarks’ best country music. The talented performers and lively atmosphere make for a great night out that kids and adults alike will enjoy.

8. Explore the Underground at Stark Caverns

Explore the fascinating world of Stark Caverns, where guided tours take you through impressive underground passages filled with unique formations. Choose between family-friendly daily tours, Black Light tours, and even Escape Rooms.

The one-hour daily tours take you through a series of incredible geological formations, Moonshiner’s Dam, the Wishing Well, and Stark Cavern’s very own Grand Canyon. Your kids will love the opportunity to learn about the history of the caverns as well as their geology, from stalagmites and stalactites to fluorescent minerals, during the tour.

9. Go Riding at Lemans Go-Karts

Offering Nascar-designed single-seater go-karts and double-seaters to accommodate an adult and small child, Lemans Go-Karts is a great place to zoom about. The facility features a quarter-mile oval track traveling through towering lush trees and wooded areas.

Lemans also offers a Junior Race Track perfectly designed for small children, allowing them to operate their own gas-powered go-kart on a separate track. This is a wonderful place to let your kids burn off some energy and enjoy a variety of fun activities.

Note: You must be eight years old and four feet six inches tall to drive a single-seater kart. For double-seater karts, be at least 12 years old, and the passenger no younger than two years old and four feet six inches tall.

10. Enjoy Indoor Fun at Jolly Mon Indoor Water Park

Situated within the Margaritaville Lake Resort, Jolly Mon Indoor Water Park is perfect for year-round water fun. The indoor park features water slides, a lazy river, an activity pool with water basketball and other games, a snack bar, and a whirlpool for ultimate family relaxation.

Jolly Mon Indoor Water Park is an ideal spot for a rainy day in Lake of the Ozarks or when you just need a break from the sun. You don’t need to be a guest at Margaritaville Lake Resort to spatter around Jolly Mon, as the water park is open to the public.

Note: Children two years and under can enter Jolly Mon Indoor Water Park for free. 

Conclusion

Lake of the Ozarks is an exceptional destination for a kid-friendly vacation thanks to its wide range of diverse activities and attractions. From thrilling water parks and adventurous hikes to educational cave tours and daring go-karting, there’s something for every family member.

Next Read: Fascinated by Missouri’s caves, visit Fantastic Caverns for more exploration.