As a company born and raised on the shores of Lake of the Ozarks, we at Marine Concepts have spent countless hours navigating its 1,150 miles of shoreline. From the bustling Bagnell Dam area to the serene coves of Grand Glaize, we’ve seen it all. This guide compiles our firsthand knowledge to help you make the most of your boating experience on the lake.
Safety is paramount on Lake of the Ozarks. Missouri law mandates that anyone born after January 1, 1984, must possess a boating safety identification card issued by the Missouri State Highway Patrol to operate a vessel.
Speed limits vary across the lake:
Always watch for posted signs, especially near marinas, docks, and public beaches, where no-wake zones are common. The Water Patrol frequently conducts safety checks, so ensure your vessel is equipped with the required safety gear:
Over the years, we’ve launched from nearly every ramp around the lake. Here are our top picks:
Located within Lake of the Ozarks State Park, this ramp is open from March 1 through October 31. It’s a four-lane ramp, making it ideal for busy weekends. However, be aware that if lake levels drop below 658.5 feet, the ramp may close temporarily.
Also situated in the state park, this marina offers two four-lane ramps, ample parking, and a marina store for last-minute supplies.
Open year-round, PB2 is a favorite among locals for its accessibility and proximity to Osage Beach amenities.
Pro tip: Get there early on weekends and holidays. Boat traffic picks up fast, and launch lines can grow long in peak season.
Other launch spots we recommend include Larry R. Gale Access, Driftwood Access, and PB1 (Public Beach #1)—each offering reliable access and easy entry to different parts of the lake.
After a day on the water, nothing beats docking your boat and enjoying a meal with a view. Here are some of our go-to waterfront restaurants:
Insider Tip: Many of these establishments offer live entertainment on weekends, so check their schedules and plan accordingly.
Over the years, we’ve worked with nearly every kind of boat on Lake of the Ozarks — and we’ve seen firsthand which styles truly shine out here.
Pontoon & Tritoon Boats: If you’re boating with family or a larger group, pontoons (and their more stable cousins, tritoons) are a no-brainer. They’re roomy, stable, and perfect for a full day of cruising, coving out, or dropping anchor for a swim.
Bow Riders: Versatile and stylish, bow riders are perfect for groups who want a mix of comfort and performance. Their open bow seating lets everyone enjoy the ride, whether you’re cruising the lake, waterskiing, or just relaxing on deck.
Ski & Wake Boats: Lake of the Ozarks is a paradise for wakeboarding and skiing, especially in the calmer early morning hours. Wake boats are purpose-built for pulling riders, while ski boats offer precision control and tight handling.
Fishing Boats: Bass boats and jon boats are go-to choices for serious anglers. These smaller, maneuverable vessels let you reach tucked-away fishing holes most boats can’t access.
It’s one of the most common questions we hear from visitors and new lake residents: should I rent or buy?
If you only hit the lake a few weekends a year, renting might be the way to go. You avoid the hassle of maintenance, storage, and winterization. Plenty of marinas offer hourly or daily rentals, so you can get on the water quickly.
For those who spend most of their summer here (or live lakeside), owning a boat brings unbeatable convenience. No wait times, no paperwork — just unlock, launch, and go. It’s also a long-term investment in your lake lifestyle, especially with tools like custom boat covers to protect your vessel year-round.
We’re a little biased — we love boat ownership — but only when it’s done right. With the right maintenance plan and dock setup (like a custom cover system), boat ownership becomes less of a chore and more of a reward.
Lake of the Ozarks offers more than just great views. Here are some of the top ways we enjoy our time on the water:
Lake of the Ozarks is vast and diverse. Here are some areas we frequent:
Local Rule Reminder: It’s illegal to tie up to or step onto private docks without permission.
Running low on fuel? No worries — there are plenty of convenient gas docks around Lake of the Ozarks, many of them located near popular boating hotspots and waterfront restaurants. Here are a few trusted spots to fill up while you’re out on the water:
1. Marina Bay Fuel Dock
Located near Mile Marker 26, this full-service dock offers ethanol-free fuel and easy access for larger boats.
2. Dirty Duck Boat Rental & Gas Dock
At Mile Marker 7, this spot is great for a quick fill-up, especially if you’re boating near the Bagnell Dam area.
3. Camden on the Lake (H. Toad’s Gas Dock)
Situated around Mile Marker 7.5, this upscale marina offers fuel, pump-out services, and a full-service resort if you’re planning to dock and dine.
4. Redhead Yacht Club
Mile Marker 21.5 — close to Redhead Lakeside Grill, so you can top off your tank and grab a bite in one stop.
5. Alhonna Resort & Marina
Located at Mile Marker 8, this family-owned spot has a friendly staff and reliable gas service for all types of vessels.
If there’s one thing that makes a boating day better, it’s less work at the dock. Our custom boat cover track system is designed to make covering and uncovering your boat as easy as pulling a curtain. No more struggling with straps or folding covers—just quick protection so you can get back to boating faster.
The system is sleek, secure, and built for everyday use—perfect for covered docks and uncovered docks.
Towing to the lake? Protect your boat from road grime, weather, and wind damage with a trailerable boat cover. Our rugged, travel-ready covers are custom-fit and secure, so your boat arrives looking just as clean as it did when you left. Whether you’re traveling 20 miles or 200, you’ll appreciate the peace of mind.
Boating at Lake of the Ozarks is fun, but it also demands attention and respect for the water. Here are a few key safety reminders:
If you’re renting or letting others drive your boat, make sure they’re certified (especially if born after January 1, 1984) and familiar with local rules.
Boating on Lake of the Ozarks is more than a pastime; it’s a way of life. By adhering to local regulations, respecting fellow boaters, and taking necessary precautions, you ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all. And remember, Marine Concepts is here to support you every step of the way, offering products designed by boaters, for boaters.
