lake of the ozarks Archives

Best Lake Vacation Destinations for Partygoers

Posted on July 28, 2023July 26, 2023 Noah Ryan

people in floats on the water — Courtesy of Eagle Mountain Lake

These four lakes in the United States are America’s favorite party places:

Lakes are enjoyed for their natural beauty and recreational opportunities, but lakes can also be a hotbed for festivity and revelry. From California to Alabama, every state has its own party lake with unique events, cultures, and atmospheres. Prepare to embark on a journey filled with music, dancing, laughter, and the exhilarating spirit of celebration that can only be found at the shores of these remarkable party lakes.

Lake of the Ozarks

people, boats, water, and floats — Courtesy of Boat Planet

Nestled in the corner of the Gravois Arm of the lake, Party Cove, officially named Anderson Hollow, is known for its wild boat parties and festive atmosphere — what the New York Times called a “permanent floating bacchanal.” People anchor their boats together, creating a floating party with music and dancing, and the area can see thousands of vessels on weekends in the summer. It’s a unique experience that has become an iconic part of the Lake of the Ozarks party scene.

The main party area off the water is at the Bagnell Dam Strip, a lively neighborhood packed with bars, restaurants, and clubs. This strip offers a variety of entertainment options, from live music and DJs to karaoke and dancing. It’s a popular gathering place for locals and tourists alike.

Lake Travis

two tiered boat with slide — Courtesy of Lake Travis

With several coves and islands, Lake Travis, outside Austin, Texas, is considered the original party lake by many Americans. To get to Devil’s Cove, visitors will have to pass through Marshall’s Point, but the echoes of a musical flotilla welcome partygoers deeper down the inlet. Here you’ll find a large tie-up with pontoon boats, slides, floats, and booming speakers. Starnes Island, also known as Monkey Island or Snake Island, is another popular spot on the lake where boaters drop anchor on the shore to enjoy activities in the water, on the boat, and the island.

Like a mirage, Sometimes Island is an islet that comes and goes. The Colorado River ran through a flood-prone basin that threatened the local population, so the Lower Colorado River Authority constructed Mansfield Dam to prevent flash floods and provide drinking water. When water levels are low enough, you can still spy the peak of this hill lost to time.

Contributing to its partying history, Aquapalooza was first hosted on Lake Travis in 2006. The inaugural Aquapalooza event at Lake Travis was a success, attracting a crowd of boaters and music lovers. Over the years, Aquapalooza has grown in scale, featuring larger stages, renowned musical acts, and a broad range of activities. It has become one of the premier on-water concert events in the United States, drawing thousands of attendees.

Lake Tahoe

Split between coastal California and the deserts of Nevada, Lake Tahoe is an oasis for locals and visitors. The foremost party lake of America’s West boasts endless opportunities and is only a short drive from Carson City, Reno, and Sacramento. While the mountains have breathtaking daytime hiking trails, the casinos and clubs at their base invite midnight escapades.

Casinos in Crystal Bay, like the Tahoe Biltmore, are a community staple. Visitors can try their luck at slot machines, video poker, and table games like blackjack, roulette, and craps. Tahoe Biltmore hosts a range of entertainment and events throughout the year. From live music performances and comedy shows to themed parties and special events, something is always happening to keep guests entertained.

Tahoe City, on the northwest side of the lake, has several venues that provide live music and a lively atmosphere, while breweries such as Tahoe Mountain Brewing Company and Alibi Ale Works serve up delicious craft beers. Nightclubs and late-night venues may be less prominent in Tahoe City, but occasional DJ nights or live music events at places like Lakeside Pizza & Sports Bar or Hacienda Del Lago offer opportunities to dance and party.

Lake Martin

people and boats in front of a cliff — Courtesy of Opelika Auburn News

As Alabama’s third-largest lake, Lake Martin is the state’s premier party lake. Chimney Rock is a popular diving and party destination, often confused for Acapulco Rock and vice versa. During summer, boaters tie up and form a platform around “The Rock” to play music, dance, and watch divers. Sail around Lake Martin to see its storied islands for a reprieve from the party scene.

From concerts to casinos and clubs, America’s lakes provide a perfect place for your party escapes. But if your ideal afterparty is somewhere to relax, check out these seven peaceful lake locales.

Top 5 Most-Searched Lakes

Posted on August 5, 2022September 1, 2022 Camille Smith

Sometimes, vacationing in a lake area can be a good indicator of whether or not you want to invest in property. When you’re looking to buy a lake home, it can be tough to determine what features are most important to you. How do you know where to begin? According to Yahoo, when booking a vacation, these are the five lakes most frequently searched lakes.

Lake Tahoe

Location: This freshwater lake stretches across Nevada and California. It’s the largest alpine (highly elevated) lake in North America and the second deepest in the country, after Crater Lake, Oregon.

What makes it popular: The lake’s large size, high altitude, and beautiful scenery make it a perfect destination for outdoor recreation. In the winter, the neighboring ski resorts thrive. On the Nevada side, casino resorts are popular as well. Lake Tahoe is known for summertime water sports, beach activities, and motorcycling. The crystal clear waters and surrounding mountain ranges make it so picturesque. Its beauty has captured the attention of movie producers for several films like The Godfather Part II and A Place in the Sun.

Lake Champlain

Location: This natural freshwater lake stretches as far as Quebec, Canada. In the U.S., Lake Champlain borders both Vermont and New York. The Vermont side has several natural features, such as the Green Mountains, while the New York side is almost entirely situated in the Adirondack mountains.

What makes it popular: Lake Champlain originally became a popular vacation destination after World War II with the expansion of railroad transportation. Today, its history is still alive in charming neighboring towns such as Essex, Ticonderoga, and Crown Point. On the lake itself, fishing is a huge selling point. Lake Champlain is one of the best bass fishing lakes in the U.S. You can also hike one of the famous Champlain Area Trails (CAT) and check out natural wonders like the Ausable Chasm. While you’re there, look for Champ, the famous monster that supposedly lurks in its waters.

Big Bear Lake

Location: Big Bear Lake is a California San Bernardino Mountains reservoir. Due to the surrounding mountains, the lake is entirely snow-fed, and its waters are not replenished in any other way.

What makes it popular: Although swimming is discouraged in this lake due to the cold water and submerged obstacles near the shore, the lake is popular for other reasons. Most prominently, it’s known for fishing. In Big Bear Lake’s chilly waters, anglers can catch trout, bluegill, crappie, catfish, and largemouth bass. The area is also known for recreational mountain activities such as snowboarding, skiing, mountain biking, and hiking. The lake is also near the town of Big Bear. Big Bear Village has more than 120 local vendors in its cozy town.

Lake Havasu

Photo courtesy of The American Southwest

Location: This large Colorado River reservoir has a California side and an Arizona side, the former in San Bernardino County and the latter in La Paz County. Before the construction of the Parker Dam, the land belonged to the Mojave Native American tribe. The lake’s name, “Havasu,” means “blue” in their language.

What makes it popular: Lake Havasu has plenty of fishing opportunities, and the surrounding community frequently hosts fishing tournaments. Like Lake Champlain, Lake Havasu is one of the best bass fishing lakes. Due to the freshwater that streams from the rocky mountains, Havasu has ideal fishing conditions all year round. One fun fact about this lake is that the London Bridge, which once spanned across the Thames River in England, was transported to the Lake Havasu area in the 1960s.

Lake of the Ozarks

Location: Lake of the Ozarks is a reservoir in central Missouri with 1,150 miles of shoreline – longer than the coastline of California. Its winding shape resembles a serpent, earning its nickname “Puff the Magic Dragon.”

What makes it popular: In general, Lake of the Ozarks is known as a hotspot for fun activities in a centrally located region of the state. There’s no shortage of things to do, from golf to wineries to ziplining. However, a huge draw of Lake of the Ozarks is the proximity of Lake of the Ozarks State Park, the largest state park in Missouri. This park is home to Anderson Hollow Cove, also known as “Party Cove,” which the New York Times called “the oldest established permanent floating bacchanal in the country.” As a bonus, if you like crime dramas, you can also check out Netflix’s show Ozark, which takes place in the area.

We hope these provide a helpful starting place for your search. And who knows – one of these most visited lakes could be the perfect setting for your dream lake home!

Lucky Lake Living: St. Patrick’s Day Events In Our Lake Areas

Posted on March 11, 2020March 5, 2020 Camille Smith

For lake homeowners, day-to-day life is already overflowing with greenery from the amazing views of nature that surround us. However, there’s a day once a year where things at the lake are especially green. That’s right — we’re talking about St. Patrick’s Day. A religious and cultural celebration honoring St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, this holiday is recognized throughout the U.S. For some, it’s a peaceful time of introspection, honoring Lent, and attending religious services. For others, it’s a day to wear as much green as possible, find the nearest parade, and hit the Irish pubs. Whatever your intention on this holiday, these St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in our lake areas are certainly worth checking out.

Sham ‘Rock the Block’ — Lake George, NY

Man in keg tossing contest — Photo courtesy of The Sun.

In upstate New York, just a few hours north of the city, the community at Lake George will be celebrating St. Patrick’s Day with a two-day event centered around Duffy’s Tavern called Sham ‘Rock’ the Block. Duffy’s, a traditional Irish pub, is a beloved landmark of the area for both residents and visitors. At this festival, you can expect to enjoy traditional Irish music, amazing food (think corned beef and Reuben sandwiches), and arts and crafts activities that will be fun for the family. On Saturday, March 14th, from the upper deck of the tavern, you can get views of both the St. Patrick’s Day parade and the amazing Lake George in the background.

Live Music Weekend — Deep Creek, MD

Live music bag pipes — Photo courtesy of Deep Creek Blog.

In the Deep Creek Lake area, there’s no shortage of activities going on over St. Patrick’s Day weekend. A major highlight of the festivities is the number of live music shows that you can discover in the area. If you head over to the Honi-Honi Bar on Saturday March 14th, you can join the St Patrick’s Day Party featuring cover tunes from the band Time Flies. While you’re out on the town, find out who’s playing at other bars and breweries in the area. Also on March 14th, E May is playing at Moonshadow at 8pm, and Ronnie Boroughs is performing at the Black Bear Tavern at 6pm. No matter where you end up, don’t miss an opportunity to see live music in Deep Creek.

St. Pat’s Booze Cruise — Lake Michigan, IL

If your vision of St. Patrick’s Day involves lots of dancing, drinking, and proximity to a major city, Chicago’s Booze Cruise is the event for you. If you book a ticket for this two hour cruise, on March 14th, you’ll find yourself aboard a luxury yacht on the great Lake Michigan. Whether you’ll opt to stay on the interior deck or check out the open-aired top deck of the boat, you’ll be able to enjoy amazing lakeside views while dancing to the DJ’s party playlist on one of the dance floors.

Parade and Shamrock Festival — Smith Mountain Lake, VA

st patrick's day parade handing out candy — Photo courtesy of Virginia’s Blue Ridge.

Smith Mountain Lake is a popular vacation spot for Virginians and out-of-state visitors alike. Resting in a valley near the Blue Ridge Mountains in the Roanoke region, this lake is primarily known for water sports and fishing (especially for striped bass). As if Smith Mountain Lake doesn’t have enough going on, the region is abuzz over St. Patrick’s Day weekend. They host the Freedom First St Patrick’s Day Parade on March 14th at 11:00am, at which the Budweiser Clydesdales are scheduled to make an appearance. Throughout the day from 10:00am-5:00pm, you can check out the exciting music festival called the Shamrock Festival featuring bands such as Jive Mother Mary and Strung Like a Horse.

St. Patrick’s Day Parade — Lake of the Ozarks, MO

st patrick's day parade hanging out beads — Photo courtesy of Lake News Online.

If you find yourself in the Lake of the Ozarks region in Central Missouri, you won’t want to miss the 30th Annual St Patrick’s Day Parade on March 14th at 1:00pm. Sponsored by the Bagnell Dam Strip Association, this historic area of the region is where the parade takes place. Between marching bands and decorative floats, you can check out the local restaurants and stop in for corned beef sandwiches.

No matter which event you attend, whether it’s one of these five or in your nearby lake area, be sure to wear your green this St. Patrick’s Day and celebrate!

Freezin’ for a Reason: Upcoming Polar Plunges in Our Lake Areas

Posted on February 4, 2020January 27, 2020 Camille Smith

participants running into San Pedro beach on new year's day

At this time of year, you may look out the window of your lake house and see a freezing body of water, perhaps partially covered in ice, and can imagine that jumping in would be downright unpleasant. Even standing outside in the cold is hardly bearable, much less being submerged in frigid lake water. However, thousands of people do this every year. Whether it’s raising money for a cause or just for the thrill of it, groups of people come together and jump into a cold body of water, such as a lake or beach, during January, February, and March. Appropriately, it’s called a Polar Plunge (could also be referred to as Polar Bear Plunge or Polar Bear Swim).

The History

massive crowd at Annual polar bear swim in Vancouver, Canada — *Annual Polar Bear Swim in Vancouver. Photo courtesy of Red Leaf.*

Although it may seem odd, these events aren’t new. In fact, people have been participating in Polar Plunges for over 100 years (a plunge in Boston in 1904 was the first one recorded) and they’re practiced around the world. In Canada, the UK, and the Netherlands, Polar Plunges are typically held to celebrate the new year. In South Korea, there’s an annual polar swimming contest that takes place on Haeundae Beach. There’s even a Polar Plunge in Antarctica, which is a rite of passage for scientists conducting research on this southernmost continent. Regardless of where you are, there’s certain to be a nearby Plunge to satisfy your search for an adrenaline rush. Here in the U.S., you can attend a polar plunge in 2020 at many of our lakes.

Polar Plunges in the U.S.

Participants take to the icy waters at Canandaigua Lake, NY — *Polar Plunge participants take to the icy waters at Canandaigua Lake, NY. Photo courtesy of Daily Messenger.*

Across the country, Polar Plunges primarily work to raise money for the Special Olympics, a global organization that provides athletic opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities. Chances are, you’ll find a Plunge this season that benefits the Special Olympics in your specific state. In New York, you’ll find Polar Plunges on Cayuga Lake on March 21st and Canandaigua Lake on March 28th, both raising money for the Special Olympics of New York. In Missouri, check out the Polar Plunge at Lake of the Ozarks on February 29th, or if you’re in Texas, there’s an event at Lake Gladewater on February 8th, both benefiting the Special Olympics of their respective states. Of course, there’s a Plunge on the great Lake Michigan in Chicago. If you attend this particular plunge on March 1st, you might even run in to Lady Gaga or Vince Vaughn who have attended in the past.

Besides the Special Olympics, there are several Polar Plunges that benefit other charities as well. For example, a Polar Plunge at Lake Anna State Park in Virginia raises money for the EOD (Explosive Ordnance Disposal) Warrior Foundation that provides financial support for both retired and active-duty EOD war veterans. We encourage you to take a look at upcoming Polar Plunges in your own communities — you never know who you might meet or what great local causes you’ll be able to support.

Why Take the Plunge?

Man raising rock on symbols in air running into lake with large crowd behind him — *Polar bear plunge participants splash their way into the new year on Sanders Beach in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. Photo courtesy of The Spokesman-Review.*

For those of us who steer on the side of caution, Polar Plunges might seem too intense, unpleasant, or even unsafe. While there’s certainly a debate over whether jumping into icy water is dangerous, most every organized Polar Plunge has a trained safety team on staff to make sure that conditions are appropriate. As long as your heart is healthy, a few seconds in the water would only give you a good shock — enough to leave you with a jolt of energy as you run back to your awaiting warm towel. At the end of the day, it’s about doing something different with a group of people to celebrate a new year or a good cause. That sense of community and spontaneity is what lake living is all about.

Interested in the lakes mentioned in this article? Learn more here: Cayuga Lake, Canandaigua Lake, Lake of the Ozarks, Lake Gladewater, Lake Michigan, and Lake Anna.

Fourth of July Festivals for Your Family

Posted on June 26, 2019June 27, 2019 Staff

Flashy fireworks, hot dogs, boat parades and live music — the makings of the best Fourth of July festival around.

father and son on dock holding American flag

As far west as Idaho or in the most north-eastern corner of the U.S. in Maine, you’re sure to find an Independence Day celebration worth shouting about.

But in case you don’t know where to start your search, we recommend you look to your lakes for family-friendly July Fourth festivities you won’t forget.

Coeur d’Alene Lake, Idaho

Spanning 33,000 acres in Idaho’s Spokane County, Coeur d’Alene Lake is no stranger to fantastic Fourth of July fun, and neither is its nearby namesake city.

Each year, the Coeur d’Alene Chamber of Commerce kicks off the festivities at 10 a.m. with the Coeur d’Alene Fourth of July Parade.

After its conclusion at 1 p.m., nearly 40,000 parade participants and spectators take to the city park to enjoy a variety of food vendors, craft booths and live music.

Others enjoy hiking and biking through Coeur d’Alene National Forest, participating in 5Ks and Fun-Runs, and cruising along the lake’s 135 miles of shoreline.

Lake lovers also take the opportunity to fish Lake Coeur d’Alene’s healthy populations of sport fish, including salmon, bass, trout and crappie.

As the sun sets, the Coeur d’Alene Resort offers an exclusive “Steak and Sparklers” dinner and private concert on the property’s front lawn where attendees can get a front-row seat to the evening’s grand finale.

Finally, the day’s events culminate at dusk as the Chamber of Commerce commences with its 22-minute, spectacular fireworks display over the water.

Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri

Larger-than-life lakes often usher in larger-than-life celebrations. Missouri’s Lake of the Ozarks is no exception.

Across its 54,000 acres, Fourth of July festivities range from pirate-themed-fireworks cruises, live concerts from Missouri’s favorite cover band “Contagious” and trips to the Dickerson Park Zoo for their annual “Red, White and Zoo: Military Appreciation Day.”

On the water, Tan-Tar-A Resort, a Margaritaville property, invites guests to take a ride on their Tropic Islands Cruises yacht for July 4th fireworks over the main channel at dusk.

Captain Ron’s Bar and Grill also offers a fantastic fireworks show for guests to enjoy while they groove to live music, dine, drink and play beach volleyball.

Of course, the Lake of the Ozarks sees plenty of boating and fishing on the Fourth of July, too. And with average temperatures of 84 degrees Fahrenheit, swimming is another fun way to spend Independence Day.

Other popular Fourth of July activities include camping, biking, and horseback riding in Lake of the Ozarks State Park and exploring nearby Bridal Cave.

Lake Barkley, Kentucky

Featuring 1,000 miles of shoreline in five counties across two states, Lake Barkley is another July 4th force to be reckoned with.

In addition to entertaining hundreds of people on its 58,000 acres, Lake Barkley also hosts a number of fireworks displays including the Lake Barkley State Resort Park show.

Held on the beach, this fireworks extravaganza is free to the public and features vendors selling a variety of foods and glow in the dark memorabilia.

Also hosted during the first weekend of July is the Cadiz “Cruise Cruz-In!,” a vintage car show and community event that takes place in historic downtown Cadiz on Main Street.

Celebrate the Fourth of July weekend with free cornhole, live music, door prizes and BBQ. Satisfy your need for speed with cars, trucks, and motorcycles from “the good ‘ole days.”

And don’t forget to pack your fishing poles and gear for some of the best crappie and bass fishing in the state!

Moosehead Lake, Maine

Located in southeastern Maine, Moosehead Lake is the largest lake in the state at nearly 75,000 acres in Piscataquis and Somerset counties.

A hot spot for eco-tourists, die-hard sportsmen and urbanites seeking haven from the hustle and bustle of the big city, the lake is also popular among America’s most patriotic.

boy and girl feet hanging of the end of boat with American flag

Start your celebrating with the Town of Greenville and Destination Moosehead Lake by taking part in their annual Fourth of July spectacular! This all-day event is free to the public and includes a parade, craft fairs and the biggest fireworks show in Piscataquis County.

For a more personalized celebration, spend the day whitewater rafting on one of Moosehead Lake’s nearby rivers; fishing for salmon, brook trout, and lake trout; or enjoying a scenic 40-minute flight over the lake’s majestic waters.

Finally, top off the day’s events with an evening cruise on the Katahdin, a 1914 steamboat that tours Moosehead Lake’s southern end.

From its decks, Katahdin riders experience the lake’s best views of Fourth of July fireworks over the water and an assortment of beverages, sandwiches, and snacks.

And the best part? The fun doesn’t stop after the fireworks have faded and the smoke has all cleared. In fact, these lakes continue to offer countless opportunities for making family memories year-round.

For more ideas on family-friendly activities at the lake, be sure to read our article “Weekend Fun: Charity Poker Runs Across the U.S.”!