Lake Ozark: Bagnell Dam, Willmore Lodge and The Strip

Lake Ozark offers several specific points of interest for your trip: the construction history of Bagnell Dam, views of the lake and river, the historic Bagnell Dam Strip, and golf and activities on the water. When looking for a hotel, it helps to first decide what you want to focus on: Would you like to explore the history of the dam, experience events on The Strip, or plan for golf and boat rentals? History and scenery offer a different focus from events, golf, or activities on the water.

Bagnell Dam and the History of the Area

Bagnell Dam is a concrete gravity dam. Its crest is 2,543 feet long, and its maximum height above the bedrock is 148 feet. These measurements describe two different aspects of the structure: the length of the crest and the height above the bedrock. Construction began on August 8, 1929, and was completed in April 1931. Willmore Lodge was built in 1930 as an administrative building for construction of the dam, while that work was still underway. After the dam was completed in 1931, businesses on its west side reopened; this area is now known as the City of Lake Ozark. The construction history and local history thus offer two different perspectives on the same development.

Views, Nature, and Willmore Lodge

The Bagnell Dam Overlook is a multi-use day-use area on a hill. From there, you can see Bagnell Dam, the lake, and the lower Osage River. A fish and bird observation area is located along a walkway to the main office of the Osage Energy Center on the downstream side of the dam. The two locations offer different points of focus: at the overlook, the dam, lake, and river are in view; at the observation area, the focus is on fish and birds.

Willmore Lodge serves as a visitor center for the Lake Area Chamber of Commerce. The lodge also houses the Bagnell Dam History Museum, which offers free admission. Since the visitor center’s hours may change, check them before your visit. A walking path at Willmore Lodge leads to lakeside gardens and a pavilion. This lets you combine a visit to the building with a short walk to these outdoor areas, without needing to plan for a specific walking time.

The Strip, Events, and Water

The historic Bagnell Dam Strip is also known locally as “The Strip.” It offers family-friendly attractions and a wide range of dining and entertainment options; individual businesses may change. Events also shape this area: Rally on the Strip is a four-day motorcycle event. The Lake of the Ozarks Christmas Parade has traveled along Bagnell Dam Boulevard for more than 40 years. The St. Patrick’s Parade is a recurring family event on the Bagnell Dam Strip. Dates and program details may change; check them before your trip. Road closures during Rally on the Strip may also vary.

For road directions: Business 54, also called Bagnell Dam Boulevard, provides access to Bagnell Dam, Horseshoe Bend Parkway, and Community Bridge. Visitors also have easy access to boat and personal watercraft rentals. Providers and availability may change. This gives you several different themes to consider when planning: events and dining on The Strip, paths and views around the lodge, and activities on the water.

Golf as a Separate Part of Your Trip

Golfers will find a clearly defined option at The Cove: the signature golf course designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr. is located at The Lodge of Four Seasons in Lake Ozark. It is an 18-hole, par-71 championship golf course. Its design, number of holes, and par provide specific details about the course without making any assumptions about its difficulty. Tee times for The Cove can be booked online or by phone. If golf is part of your travel plans, you can consider it alongside The Strip’s offerings, the history of the dam, and activities on the water.

Discover more destinations: Eldon.

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