An aerial view of a castle on top of a cliff overlooking a lake surrounded by trees.

Free Activities at Lake of the Ozarks: Vacations Your Wallet Will Love

Who is this article for?

Anyone going on vacation near the Lake of the Ozarks looking for budget-friendly activities.


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Everyone needs a good vacation once in a while. A chance to escape and reconnect with yourself and your loved ones. The only issue? Cost. Vacations can be expensive, and if you’re stressed about the cost, you might not even enjoy your time away. Luckily for you, we’ve found the perfect place to vacation while staying on a budget: Lake of the Ozarks. 


Plus, if you’re staying at Bear Bottom Resort during your time here, we’ve got a plethora of cost-friendly activities you can do, ranging from waterslides to live music events. Let’s explore some of the best free things to do in the Lake of the Ozarks.

A large body of water surrounded by trees on a sunny day.

Outdoor Retreats That Don’t Cost A Dime

Got a craving for the outdoors? Here are some of the best, and most importantly free, activities you can choose from:


1. Explore Lake of the Ozarks State Park

As Missouri’s largest state park, this place is loaded with trails, picnic areas, overlooks, and even a couple of free public swimming beaches. Hitting the trails on foot, or by mountain bike, are big draws, especially on the Trail of Four Winds, a fun loop that offers great views of the nearby lake. You also can fish in the area for free, as long as you have a Missouri fishing license. 


2. Hike through Ha Ha Tonka State Park

This is easily one of the most unique things you’ll ever see. Ha Ha Tonka contains ruins of a stone mansion built in the early 1900s that you can explore. That’s not all, as it is rumored there may be a ghost or two lurking around during your visit. The trail leading up to the ruins is full of surprises, including natural bridges and bluffs with incredible views. It’s a great opportunity for a quick photo op, so make sure you bring your camera!


3. Visit the Bagnell Dam Strip

The Bagnell Dam Strip is a fantastic place to walk around and see what life at the Lake of the Ozarks is all about. You don’t have to buy anything to enjoy the lively atmosphere either. Especially during the summer, there’s plenty of events going on to keep you entertained, along with a scenic overlook that shows off the stunning dam and the lake.


4. Enjoying the Beach

There are several free public beaches throughout the area. Stop on by with your group and enjoy a nice dip in the water. Pack your cooler, apply some sunscreen, and make a full day out of a beach trip—all without even pulling out your wallet.

Family Fun for Everyone

Bringing the little ones only adds to the value of a vacation. Let’s explore some family-friendly activities:



  • Willmore Lodge & Museum: Explore this historic lodge turned museum and learn more about the story of the lake and the Bagnell Dam. 
  • Seasonal Events and Festivals: Depending on when you decide to come visit us, you might be able to catch one of the several free festivals or car shows that pop up. The Magic Dragon Street Meet Nationals is a car show that draws in hundreds of classic cars. Other activities include Hot Summer Nights, an event filled with live music, and a variety of activities for kids.
  • Picnics and Playgrounds: Most of the parks around the lake offer free playgrounds, picnic spots, and open fields to let the kids run wild. Pack your lunch and make an afternoon out of simple fun that burns off energy, not cash.
A large stone building with a blue sky in the background

When You Need a Break from the Sun

Missouri can get humid, especially around the lakes. It might be nice to head indoors for a little while to cool off, especially when considering these free activities:



  • Camden County Museum: Situated in a former schoolhouse in Linn Creek, this museum showcases the history of those before us. From Civil War memorabilia to vintage tools, there’s a little bit of everything within these walls.
  • Miller County Museum: Another solid option for the curious mind would be Miller County Museum, where you’ll find displays of agriculture and early medicine. Plus, they’ve got a dedicated genealogy center for you to explore.

Stay Close to the Action: Bear Bottom Resort

One of the best ways to enjoy all the free things in the area is to stay somewhere that keeps you right in the thick of it. Bear Bottom Resort is located right on the water in Sunrise Beach. We offer cozy accommodations at a reasonable price, helping you to stick to your budget goals. Whether you’re looking to pull in your RV, or enjoy one of our rooms, rest easy knowing we’ve got you covered with lakefront access, on-site dining, giant waterslides, and everything you need for a laid-back stay at Bear Bottom Resort.


Did we mention that we have boat slips? Bring your boat and hit the lake, saving you time and money by avoiding boat rental fees. Leave your stress at the door, and come make Bear Bottom Resort your next affordable vacation destination.