A drift car racing on a track, kicking up a large cloud of smoke with motion blur.

Start Your Engines: Ozarks International Raceway

Gentlemen, start your engines! If you’re a fan of high-octane excitement, watching as cars rush past you, Ozarks International Raceway (OIR) is the place to be. Right in the heart of Missouri, this spectacle is a must-see for all speed demons alike. Let’s take an inside look at one of the best things to do in the Lakes of the Ozarks region.

A pack of race cars navigates a corner on an asphalt track with a grass verge.

Built for Speed

Opening its doors in 2022, OIR has a fresh take on racecar track design, all built with precision, skill, and guts in mind. The main course runs about 3.97-miles, with 19 turns and an elevation change of over 1,200 feet per lap! Not only is it thrilling, but it tests drivers in a way few other tracks can. Two other configurations include an outside track and inside course, 2.5 miles and 1.4 miles respectively. Whether you’re driving wheel-to-wheel in a race series, or watching from the sidelines, there’s something for everyone.

What sets OIR apart isn’t just the pavement—it’s the purpose behind it. Created from the mind of racer J.R. Pesek, the course was designed with the goal of creating a premier destination for competitive motorsports. This racer-first mindset is seen in the details, whether through the professional setup or the state-of-the-art control tower. 


Their 58-bay garage—converted from old turkey barns—provides plenty of space for your hot rod. You also can ride in the passenger seat of one of their Ford Mustang GT4’s, going 0-60 in 4.2 seconds! Whether you’re a seasoned racer or are looking for a thrilling ride, the setup here supports a smooth, efficient, and enjoyable experience.

Designed With Racers in Mind

Spectators in a grandstand watching a blurry race car speed by on a track.

Racing and Events

With an ever growing calendar of events, OIR draws racers and fans from all over the country. The National Auto Sport Association (NASA) MidAmerica region features OIR, hosting multi-day events. From competitive racing to high-performance driving schools and track day access, Ozarks International Raceway has it all.


In addition to their traditional road races, OIR has become a popular destination for drifting, time attack series, and driving clubs. Precision DRIFT, their branded drifting event, pushes both drivers and their cars to the limit with some serious sideways action. It’s common to see a mixed range of everything in these drifting events, from top-dollar GTs to home-built drift missiles. There’s something for every car enthusiast, whether you’re looking to race or just have a great motorsports weekend.

So, what truly sets OIR apart from other raceways? Location. Being in the Lake of the Ozarks region adds some serious value, especially for those visiting from out of town. Beyond the course, the area is full of lakeside attractions, wineries, local eateries, and a cozy lodging option at Bear Bottom Resort. Our property turns any quick event into a full blown weekend getaway with our comfortable accommodations, modern amenities, and, of course, waterslides! 


Whether you’re renting a boat and exploring the open waters, hiking nearby trails, or enjoying waterfront restaurants, there’s always things to do in the Lakes of the Ozarks. It’s not just a place to race—it’s a place for adventure.

Lake of the Ozarks

Four people look upward while walking through a racing-themed building with display cars and banners.

A sense of community and culture is truly what makes OIR special. As more racers, clubs and events add to the track’s rotation, a new sense of identity builds around the venue. It’s quickly becoming the main meeting point for all Midwest motorsports, and is a place where people not only compete, but also connect. 


The team at Ozarks International Raceway is working hard to continue developing the facility, all with racer’s feedback in mind. This ensures a track designed by the experts, for the experts, and bodes well for the future of racing. OIR isn’t trying to copy the classics—it’s redefining what a racetrack can be.

Community and Culture

Stay at Bear Bottom Resort

Located just 15 minutes from Ozarks International Raceway, plan on staying at our wonderful resort during your time in Missouri. With plenty of on-site fun, including live music, a swimming pool and bar, and our very own restaurant, you’ll never find a moment of boredom on our property. 


Whether you’re wanting to bring your own RV, or stay in one of our units, rest easy knowing that your vacation is in good hands with us. We look forward to welcoming you to the greatest vacation you’ll ever take.


Book your reservation today!