Table Rock Lake in Branson, Missouri

A man-made lake/reservoir that sits across Arkansas and Missouri, Table Rock Lake is a major attraction in the Branson area. A favorite with visitors who want to spend some time outdoors, this pretty lake was created in the 1950s when the White River was dammed, and its 53,000 surface acres are ideal for accommodating boats large and small. The Army Corps of Engineers built the dam and is still responsible for the everyday operations at the lake.

Several full service marinas operate along the shores of Table Rock Lake, offering conveniences and amenities for boaters. The State Park Marina, for example, offers a plethora of boat rentals ranging from ski boats to pontoon varieties. Wave runners are also for rent at most of the marinas. Boaters can rent slips annually or those who are staying just a day or two can take advantage of inexpensive overnight rentals. (Reservations are recommended.)

 

Besides boating, visitors also come here to enjoy the sport of SCUBA diving. The lake is home to a vast underwater world and is a great place to learn how to dive but equally as fun for experienced divers. Lake visibility is best in the spring but can be enjoyed in the summer and fall as well. Diving locations within the park include Breezy Point, which features a nice vertical drop-off; The Saddle, a unique underwater ridge; Spoonbill Bluff, a great place to watch schools of paddlefish; Zebulon Pike, a boat wreck site that’s situated at about 75 feet; and The Enchanted Forest, a rock bluff that puts divers at the base of many moss-covered oak trees. Visitors can also dive near the dam, where they can feed the fish and not worry about boat traffic. Lessons and certification courses are offered and equipment rental is available.

Those who enjoy playing in the water can also go fishing on Table Rock Lake. In the spring, anglers can expect to catch such species as bass, crappie, walleye, catfish, and spoonbill. Species vary with seasons.

There’s also a parasailing company located alongside the lake which takes riders for a great panoramic tour of Table Rock from a few hundred feet up in the air. Rides last about 8 to 10 minutes and reservations are suggested, especially at the peak of tourist season. Generally, several riders are taken out onto the river during each excursion and can ride single or double.

Many of the marinas, like the Port of Kimberling Marina – located just a few miles from Branson – also offer houseboat rentals for those who prefer to stay on water instead of dry land. The marinas also boast cafes or full service restaurants as well as stores that stock boater’s needs as well as items including apparel, souvenirs, and snacks.

Camping along Table Rock Lake is abundant. The Army Corps built some 13 camping sites along the lake, providing hundreds of options for visitors. Rental cabins are abundant and there are also several campgrounds that can accommodate those traveling in an RV. For those wanting something a little more upscale, there are several B&Bs and country inn-type establishments located along the lake as well.

Useful Links:

http://www.tablerocklake.com/

http://www.visittablerocklake.org/

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