The Lake of Ozark is a world-class destination that offers natural beauty and recreational opportunities that most tourists seek. It provides many things for entertainment and relaxation.
Lake of the Ozarks is a man-made, non-flood-control lake in Missouri known for its sprawling shorelines and recreation.
While many visitors visit well-known spots, the Lake of the Ozarks Beach is also home to several hidden beaches among its nearly 20 islands and quiet coves. These secluded shores offer a peaceful escape, where you can enjoy nature’s beauty away from the crowds.
From family-friendly picnic areas to private, more exclusive spots, these hidden gems on Lake Ozarks provide a unique experience for those looking to explore the quieter side of the Lake.
To appreciate this place even more, let’s look at some of the best hidden beaches at the Lake of the Ozarks!
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Linn Creek Cove is one of the hidden treasures of Lake of the Ozarks. This cove is located near the charming lake town of Linn Creek and combines natural beauty with small-town charm.
Named after the native trees grace the area, Linn Creek preserves a unique historical legacy beneath the Lake’s tranquil waters.
Once a central hub for transporting goods and people across southwestern Missouri, Linn Creek was considered the head of navigation on the Osage River before the Lake’s formation.
Linn Creek Cove has a wide mouth and extends deep inland, creating a mix of secluded areas and open water. With its expansive area and calm waters, residents and visitors enjoy boating, fishing, swimming, and a peaceful retreat.
The cove provides water activities and access to numerous vacation rentals, resorts, and private homes. Homes for sale and rent offer a mix of cozy cabins and luxurious lakeside homes with lakefront views and boat docks.
Linn Creek Cove provides easy access to hiking trails, golf courses, and parks. The nearby Lake of the Ozarks or Linn Creek KOA Holiday offers picnicking opportunities amidst scenic trails and springs.
Golfers may also enjoy a round at The Golf Club at Deer Chase, known for its rolling hills and water hazards.
Of course, your vacation won’t be completed by just enjoying the activities Linn Creek Cove offers, and you must also indulge in Linn Creek delicacies! Several restaurants near Linn Creek Cove offer delicious menu options from steaks, seafood, pasta, sandwiches, and refreshing drinks.
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Tucked away in the charming Ha Ha Tonka State Park, this hidden beach is a true Missouri treasure. It provides a peaceful spot for swimming, fishing, and relaxation.
It’s the perfect place to escape the crowded areas of Lake of the Ozarks. Upon arrival, visitors are encouraged to stop first at the visitor center first to pick up a map and learn more about the park’s rich history and geological significance.
For those who love exploring, more than 15 miles of trails wind through Ha Ha Tonka State Park, leading visitors to various geological features, the castle ruins, and the beach.
A series of boardwalks and well-maintained trails make it easy to navigate the diverse terrain, from woodlands and rocky glades to the lakefront. Kayak and boat rentals are available for those wanting to explore around the Lake, while anglers can try their luck fishing in the waters.
After enjoying the Ha Ha Tonka State Park Beach, you can rest on its special-use camping area, making it an excellent spot for an overnight adventure.
3. Party Cove
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Party Cove is in Anderson Hollow Cove within Lake of the Ozarks State Park. It is accessible by passing under the Grand Glaize Bridge at the 19-mile marker of the main channel, where U.S. Highway 54 crosses the Lake in Osage Beach.
For those who are seeking a fun experience on the water, Party Cove is a perfect place, iconic for its lively summer atmosphere! Over 3,000 boats come together every summer for the world’s largest floating party, offering a wild experience filled with music, laughter, and plenty of people enjoying the day.
However, Party Cove isn’t always about the excitement and noise. During the off-season, it transforms into a quiet retreat. As temperatures cool and crowds lessen, visitors can enjoy the peaceful side of the Lake.
During Party Cove’s quiet and peaceful season, everyone enjoys renting a boat to explore the Lake’s calm waters, enjoy a spa treatment, and simply relax on the water. In addition, fall foliage creates a stunning backdrop during fall, with hillsides and rock bluffs providing a scenic view.
You’ll appreciate the arm east of Party Cove near Osage Beach if you prefer natural shorelines over-developed areas. It is untouched and offers gorgeous views showcasing the area’s natural beauty. It is a perfect destination for those seeking peace amidst stunning surroundings.
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Sunrise Beach in Camden, Missouri, is one of the treasured gems of Lake of the Ozarks. Known for its peaceful atmosphere and breathtaking lake views, Sunrise Beach makes itself a prime spot for those looking to enjoy a serene lakeside retreat today.
The area boasts numerous marinas and opportunities for boating, fishing, and other lake-related activities.
Sunrise Beach offers various real estate options for those interested in lakefront living, from cozy cabins to luxurious waterfront estates. Homes here cater to different budgets and preferences, all while providing easy access to the Lake and its many recreational activities.
Additionally, the area is conveniently located near dining, shopping, and entertainment, making it a desirable destination for those seeking the best of Missouri’s quiet lakefront lifestyle.
5. McCubbins Point Beach
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McCubbins Point Beach is a serene hidden treasure in Linn Creek’s heart. It is perfect for those seeking a peaceful escape.
Surrounded by the astounding scenic beauty of the Lake of the Ozarks Beach and lush landscapes, McCubbins Point Beach provides a tranquil environment where visitors can unwind from the city’s busy life, connect with nature, and rejuvenate their spirits.
Visiting McCubbins Point Beach allows you to lounge on the shore or explore the nearby trails. The Lake’s calm and tranquil waters make it ideal for swimming, while the quiet environment ensures a serene experience away from the busier areas of Lake Ozark.
For boating enthusiasts, McCubbins Point Beach offers convenient access with its boat ramps. While some nearby ramps, such as Grand Glaize Beach and Public Beach #1, require a small fee, McCubbins Point can quickly launch their boats and explore the Lake for free. Once on the water, you can enjoy fishing, cruising, or soaking in the Lake.
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Gravois Mills Access is a hidden gem on the Gravois Arm of Lake of the Ozarks. This conservation area is perfect for those who want to enjoy the outdoors in a peaceful, no-wake zone away from the crowded areas of Lake of the Ozarks. This hidden beach is ideal for kayaking, fishing, and paddleboarding.
Visitors can take advantage of walking trails, picnic tables, and a boat access point that offers numerous recreational possibilities.
Gravois Mills Access is open daily from 4:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. In some areas, Specific activities such as fishing, hunting, camping, and boat launching are permitted 24 hours a day. However, parking or storing watercraft and commercial vehicles in Gravois Mills is prohibited during closed hours.
It is off Highway 5 at the north end of Gravois Mills; visitors can follow a brown Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) sign leading east to the access area. A narrow strip of land on both sides of the road marks the start of this site before reaching the parking lot.
From the water, Gravois Mills Access is situated at the 10.1-mile marker of the Gravois Arm of Lake of the Ozarks. Although a relatively small area, it offers plenty of fun opportunities to explore and enjoy the natural surroundings year-round.
7. Twin Islands Beach
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Twin Islands Beach is another of Missouri’s hidden gems in the heart of the Lake of the Ozarks. This secluded beach area offers a quiet spot surrounded by nature’s beauty.
The island features lush greenery and clear waters, giving it a small paradise vibe tucked away from the busier parts of the Lake.
Although Twin Islands’ beauty may look tantalizing, you would need permission to enjoy the beach and surrounding areas, as they are privately owned.
Despite its private status, Twin Islands Beach remains a sought-after location for those looking for a serene lakefront experience and paradisiacal Lake living. It embodies the charm and allure of Missouri’s less-explored destinations.
Furthermore, the private ownership adds an air of exclusivity, making it a hidden treasure for those who know about it.
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The Glaize Arm Beaches, located along the Glaize Arm of Lake of the Ozarks, one of the Lake’s least developed portions, is perfect for those seeking a more natural and tranquil lake experience.
The Glaize Arm is famous for being the home of the “Infamous Party Cove.” Despite this, much of the shoreline remains undeveloped and is part of the state park, making it ideal for peaceful water skiing, tubing, camping, and other outdoor activities.
The park features three boat launch ramps with public access, making it easy for visitors to explore the area by water.
Two notable public beaches in Glaize Arm are Public Beach 1 Lake of the Ozarks, located at the end of Highway 134, and Public Beach 2 Lake Of The Ozarks, also known as Grand Glaize Beach, which is located 1.5 miles south of the Grand Glaize Bridge on Highway 54 in Osage Beach.
Boaters can easily dock and enjoy a meal or drink!
9. Lakeview Beach (Osage Beach)
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Lakeview Beach (Osage Beach) offers a peaceful and serene retreat on the beautiful Lake of the Ozarks. It provides a unique experience for visitors seeking a quiet lakeside getaway with all the comforts of home, with its charming cabins and condos.
The beach offers world-class activities that should not be missed. Water-based activities abound in the Osage Beach community, where you can enjoy everything from fishing and boating to swimming and jet skiing.
The nearby Osage Beach City Park covers 92 acres, allowing visitors to fish in the park’s stocked pond, let children enjoy the playground, or use the soccer fields. Adjacent to this park is the much larger Lake of the Ozarks State Park, which features swimming beaches, hiking and biking trails, and even horseback riding.
The iconic Swinging Bridge is also close to explore. For shopping enthusiasts, unique boutiques and shops offer one-of-a-kind finds, and the Osage Beach Premium Outlets provide discounted merchandise.
10. Millstone Marina Beach
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Millstone Marina Beach is a hidden gem on the shores of Lake of the Ozarks, creating a space for relaxation, adventure, and luxury.
As part of the historic Millstone Marina, this beach provides visitors with an exclusive lakeside experience that combines the charm of a secluded beach with top-notch amenities.
The marina has been a beloved destination for decades, previously known as “Morrison’s Mooring.” After disrepair, it was brought back to life by its most recent owners, the Howells, who transformed it into a popular spot accessible by water and land. Today, Millstone Marina is the only RV resort with direct waterfront sites.
Adding a large RV park with spacious sites with full hookups, multiple swimming pools, private bathhouses, laundry facilities, a fitness center, dog parks, and more has made Millstone a top extended-stay campground on the Lake. It’s genuinely a lakeside retreat with all the comforts of home!
Boating enthusiasts will appreciate the new wet slips for boats and the convenience of a fully stocked Yacht Stop, a full-service fuel dock, a boutique, and multiple dining options.
Millstone Marina Beach is also a haven for anglers, with Lake of the Ozarks home to various fish species, including bass, crappie, and catfish.
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Conclusion
The hidden beaches of Lake of the Ozarks provide a quiet and relaxing retreat where you can enjoy nature and indulge in adventures. Whether looking for a peaceful place to unwind or enjoy water activities, these Lake of Ozarks beaches offer something for everyone.
From the peaceful Linn Creek Cove to the lively Party Cove, each hidden beach has its unique charm, making Lake of the Ozarks a genuinely remarkable destination for excitement and tranquility.
Start planning your visit today and experience the hidden gems of Lake of the Ozarks for yourself! If you need assistance or have questions, please call us at 573-746-0133 or message us via ryan@ryansells.com. We will be glad to help you with your inquiries!
Frequently Asked Questions
Are these beaches accessible year-round?
Yes, most of the Lake of the Ozarks beaches are accessible year-round. However, it is best to visit during warmer months when the weather is more favorable for swimming and outdoor activities.
Do these beaches have amenities?
Some beaches offer picnic areas, restrooms, boat ramps, and RV parks. However, not all hidden beaches of Lake of Ozarks have amenities, so it’s a good idea to plan and bring any necessary supplies, such as food, water, and sunscreen.
What wildlife might I encounter at these beaches?
You might encounter various wildlife, such as birds, toads, deer, chipmunks, bears, coyotes, and more.
You may spot turtles, fish, and occasionally skinks near the water. It is recommended that you observe them from a distance and avoid feeding them when visiting.
Can I camp at these hidden beaches?
Absolutely! Some beaches are located within state parks or areas that allow camping, such as Ha Ha Tonka State Park. Be sure to check specific rules for each beach, as camping may not be permitted at all hidden beaches.
Designated campgrounds or RV Parks often provide a more suitable option for overnight stays.
Are these beaches family-friendly?
Many beaches are family-friendly and offer safe, calm waters and plenty of space for children to play.
Locations like Linn Creek Cove and Lakeview Beach are great options for families looking for a relaxing day. However, it is still important to always supervise children, especially around water, and choose beaches with appropriate facilities for your needs.
