Located in southwestern Missouri’s breathtaking Ozark Mountains, Table Rock Lake is situated near the town of Branson, and covers between 43 and 52 thousand acres (depending on water level), with roughly 800 miles of beautiful shoreline. This manmade lake was constructed in August of 1958 by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, that built the Table Rock Dam across the White River. Surrounded by acres of the Mark Twain National Forest, this lake made it possible for hydro-electric power to be distributed to the Ozarks in June of 1959. It is said that the lake’s name has its origin in the original dam site, a large, flat rock formation, which survives today as the scenic overlook on Highway 165.

The first inhabitants of the Table Rock Lake region were primitive, cliff dwellers. The Osage Indians were the first of the Native American tribes who settled in the area, which became their hunting grounds. Some of the earliest Americans to settle the Ozarks in the 19th century were pioneers who ventured into the unknown wilderness of the west from the Southern Appalachians. Irish and German immigrants had a strong presence in the region after 1820, and today, a sense of community persists among the Ozarks’ Irish and Germans.

Notably recognized as one of the top bass fishing spots in the nation, Table Rock Lake boasts an abundance of Kentucky/spotted bass, largemouth and smallmouth bass, and white bass, among other fish, including crappie, bluegill and catfish. It is also a popular place for dozens of regional and local fishing tournament annually, such as, the T-H Marine BFL Table Rock Lake, Costa FLW Series Championship and Table Rock Lake Big Bass Tournament. 

The captivating beauty of Table Rock Lake and the larger Ozarks region is a magnet that continues to attract many. There are amazing recreational opportunities to enjoy on the lake, such as sailing, waterskiing, scuba diving, parasailing, wakeboarding, power-boating and canoeing. The tree-lined shores make for great sightseeing, camping and hiking adventure. More than a dozen campgrounds are situated next to Table Rock Lake, with swimming and picnic areas. Dip in the crystal, clear water of the expansive and sandy Moonshine Beach. To see the beautiful sights in and around Table Rock Lake, from the water, take a catamaran ride through the scenic Ozarks, and on land, the Talking Rocks Cavern offers cave tours and two great hiking trails on-site. Table Rock Lake is one of Branson, Missouri’s best jewels.