Lake of the Ozarks Parks
The main park is the largest in the state of Missouri. Covering over 17,000 acres of land, the lake is a favorite destination for vacationers. There are many campsites with a view of the lake and also caverns in the area to explore. The park also has trails that can be enjoyed by mountain bikers, horse back riders, and hikers.
In 1931 the two swinging bridges were built to replace the bridges that were covered by water after the creation of the dam. The bridges took three months to complete and though the smaller one has been renovated, both remain in use. Camp areas are nearby and the shallow water provides a great area to enjoy a picnic.
Bagnell Dam and overlook info found at miller county museum
The Bagnell Dam created what is now the largest man made lake in America, Lake of the Ozarks. The project was started in 1929. It suffered many financial setbacks due to the Great Depression but was completed in 1931. The goal of the project was to supply power to the city of St. Louis. Over the 28 months it took to build, 4600 workers were involved with the project. Views of the lake can be enjoyed from the overlook area and more information about the dam can be found at the Miller County Museum nearby.
Thunder Mountain Conservation Area
This small refuge offers a picnic area and hiking trails. There is an area for shooting and a small archery range. Visitors can also explore the 80 ft tall fire tower.
The park offers 15 miles of trails that lead through woodland areas, views of the lake, caves, and the castle ruins. The castle at Ha Ha Tonka was built by Robert Snyder. Snyder was originally from Kansas City; he fell in love with the area while visiting and began buying large pieces of land. He eventually owned 2500 acres. It was on this land that he designed a castle in the old European style. In 1905 he even hired Scottish masons and the building began. The project was unfortunately not completed when Snyder died in an auto accident in 1906. His children carried on the building and later leased the building as a hotel when they experienced financial difficulties. In 1942 a fire started in the fireplace and destroyed the house and stables. What is left of the castle and land was purchased by the state of Missouri in 1978 and is now the Ha Ha Tonka Park.
Tunnel Dam Whistle Shallows
Seven miles south of Ha Ha Tonka State park is the Tunnel Dam and Whistle Shallows. This part of the Niangua River is surrounded by wooded hillsides. The dam created Lake Niangua covering 360 acres of land. The dam itself was created in 1930 and was chosen for the 500 foot long natural cave that already existed. The shallow waters near the dam create a great place to enjoy a picnic near the water.
