by Samara Abrams

Created on: May 23, 2008   Last Updated: April 18, 2011

Lake of the Ozarks, centrally located between Kansas City, St. Louis and Branson, Missouri provides some of the state's best scenery along with a multitude of leisure activities that people of all ages can enjoy. Although quite touristy, there are a many options to keep you busy and energized once you are there. Here are a few things you may want to check out:

The Caves
The area that surrounds the Lake of the Ozarks is home to 300 natural caves. Some of these caves have been turned into show caves, such as Jacob's Cave and Bridal Cave, which allow you to "spelunk" your way (no special equipment needed!) through the underground beauty. What's really terrific is that no matter how hot it gets on the Lake, it's always cool in the caves! In addition, if you're looking to get married or renew your vows, you can reserve the Bridal Cave as a wedding chapel.

The Water Parks
Indoor water parks are spreading like wildfire across the country to provide family entertainment year-round. Lake of the Ozarks is no different with the Tan-Tar-A Resort opening Timber Falls Indoor Waterpark with four water slides, a lazy river, whirlpool and the famed 700-gallon water bucket that tips every couple minutes there really is something for the entire family to enjoy. You can also hang out at Big Surf Waterpark - drop down body flumes and other water rides, float away on the lazy river or ride the tides in the wave pool. Your little ones will also love Tropical Splash Island inside Big Surf home to a water playground fantasy.

The Golf (The real thing and mini!)
You will find everything from championship level to family friendly courses around Lake of the Ozarks most of which are open year round (weather permitting, of course). "Off season" at these courses usually means lower rates and better available tee times. With so many golf courses, those who want to play for an entire week can do so without ever playing the same hole twice!

As for the kids, they'll more likely appreciate the mini-golf options. Pirate's Cove and Sugar Creek are just a couple of the mini-golf choices that will provide fun for the entire family. While probably just suitable as an afternoon activity after some playtime on the Lake or following a leisurely dinner, mini-golf is always a great way to share family vacation time.

Indoor Fun
So, you're at the Lake to take in the great outdoors and what is that rain?! Don't despair, there are a few options to take the fun inside. You can check out Miner Mike's or the Orion Center for some wholesome family entertainment. It might end up costing you a pretty penny, but you'll certainly have found a way to keep the kids from getting stir crazy. What the heck, even if it's not raining, these places offer family fun that you just wouldn't partake in if you weren't on vacation!

Everyone who visits the Lake of the Ozarks seems to keep on going back to the region year after year. A few days spent exploring will show you why!

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