by Robert Case

Created on: May 27, 2008   Last Updated: April 18, 2011

The Table Rock Lake area of southwestern Missouri and northwestern Arkansas truly is a four season locale. While most visitors to Branson and the lakes area stay less than a week, live here for a year and you may end up staying a lifetime.

The mean average annual temperature is 55.6 degrees. Daily temperatures normally span about 25 degrees between the high and low. July and August highs will average around 90 with lows averaging in the upper 60's. Mid-December to mid-February will average around 20 for the low and in the mid-40's for the high.

Precipitation is fairly steady all year around, with the annual average precipitation around 43 inches. The wettest month of the year is November with an average rainfall of 4.5 inches. The winters are generally mild with typical snow accumulations between 1 and 2 inches and the occasional ice storm. Snow and ice removal has improved and main roads are kept open.

A lush, green Spring begins in late March or early April. A majority of the Branson theaters open their season around this time. Summer extends from late June into September. The humidity is a bit high during this time, so air conditioning is a necessity. Autumn lasts from October through November and is truly the most beautiful time in the Ozarks, offering the possibility of vibrant colors in the fall foliage.

The biggest tourist time is September to December, with more than 50 shows to see in Branson and the Ozark Mountain Christmas shows beginning in early November. Summer is when families visit during summer vacation from school. Spring before school lets out is a great time to catch the attractions before the summer and fall crowds arrive.

Lake boating and fishing is actually nearly year around now, easily spanning April through November. However, many of Table Rock's lake resorts still consider June, July and August the peak season with higher rates. The resort towns of Branson and Eureka Springs, Arkansas really only consider mid-December to March as the off-season with reduced rates.

However, even the Ozark winter can be a special time, especially sitting in front of the fire in the lodge, shopping at the Branson Landing, and catching several of the few shows that are remaining open all year.

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