Planning a Girl’s Trip at the Lake of the Ozarks

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Although the über-popular Netflix series, Ozark put this beautiful area on the map for some viewers, midwest locals have always known the Ozarks as a premier vacation destination. The Lake of the Ozarks is an all-encompassing location perfect for some family-friendly fun, a solo getaway, or a weekend spent with your best girlfriends.

If you’re planning a family girl’s trip, bachelorette weekend or just need a vacation with your besties, we’ve got you covered! We’ve compiled the best tips and tricks for a stellar girls' trip at the Lake of the Ozarks. So read on and add that swimsuit (or two) to your online shopping cart!

A Planning Guide

Before you can book your plane ticket and send out that group text, you’ll need to figure out a few key details. You don’t need to plan things in this order, but you can use these tips as a general guide.

Dates

We recommend planning your trip 2-3 months in advance. This gives your guests plenty of time to put money aside for expenses and request work off.

The Lake of the Ozarks (LOTO) is most popular in the summer and during the peak season, so consider visiting in the off-season (September-March) to save some money.

Guest Count

For some, they need to know all the details before they commit. For others, the brief mention of the beach will be enough for them to reserve a seat. The number of attendees will impact the cost of the trip and is a crucial thing to consider when planning.

Lodging

We might sound a bit biased but our bed and breakfast in Camdenton, Missouri is one of the best places to stay during your trip. Located steps away from the lake, the Hummingbird Inn Camdenton is a quiet and comfortable place to relax after a day on the water.

Our lakeside B&B is a tranquil spot for your trip and blends comfort, luxury, and a personal touch that resonates with the warmth of home.

Budget

Time to talk about the big, hairy monster…the cost. Don’t get too stressed out about the trip’s cost and look for ways to cut down expenses.

For example, buying some groceries ahead of time instead of eating out every meal can save some money. Consider things like airfare/gas, attractions, meals, drinks, entrance fees, souvenirs, and lake rentals when putting together a budget.

A Day on the Water

Visiting LOTO and not getting out on the water is like visiting Thailand and not eating any pad Thai—it just shouldn't happen. The unique serpentine shape of the Lake is what makes the Ozarks so iconic and provides thrilling lakeside fun.

Lake Rentals: Renting a boat is a nice option as it gives you control over where you go, plus you can swim and wakeboard with ease. You can also rent some jet skis and tubes for even more lake fun.

Depending on your group’s preference, there are different options like a pontoon boat, ski boat, and even party boat rentals on the Lake of the Ozarks perfect for bar hopping on the water.

If your group wants to avoid spending the day tied to the wheel while still ensuring safety, consider hiring a boat captain. For more information, check out our guide for boating and fun on the lake.

See the Sights

If your group is more the sightseeing kind, plan your trip around the local attractions. This can be a great option for a multi-generational trip with guests of varying ages. Here are some of the most popular sights in the area:

Bagnell Dam: The Bagnell Dam is the structure that created LOTO by splitting the Osage River. For a picturesque experience, check out the scenic overlook at the Bagnell Dam. While looking down, you will be in awe at the massive engineering marvel that provides the lake’s relaxing lifestyle.

Hiking & Outdoor Sights: Get up early to check out the best trails at the Lake of the Ozarks State Park like Rocky Top Trail and nearby ones like Island Trail. If you book at our B&B, you can enjoy a delicious breakfast before setting off on your hike.

Kayaking: At our lakeside Inn, bespoke service is our middle name. We can have kayaks delivered so your group can paddle on Spencer Creek for a tranquil day spent on the water.

Ozarks Amphitheater: Although it is not located on the lake, Ozarks Amphitheater hosts many of the most popular concert tours each summer. The open-air amphitheater provides an up-close experience with your favorite artist that your friends and family won’t forget.

Ha Ha Tonka State Park: Check out the intriguing castle ruins and other geological wonders like sinkholes, caves, and a natural bridge at Ha Ha Tonka State Park. As if it was taken straight out of a Scottish fairytale, the massive castle ruins offer impressive views, and we think the entire park is worth a visit.

An Elegant Experience

If your group is the type that bonds over Pride & Prejudice and Jane Austin media, consider an upscale girl’s trip, reminiscent of the 17th-century Victorian era.

You can check out the local wineries, and breweries near Camdenton or come see us at The Hummingbird Inn Camdenton (Lake of the Ozarks).

We pride ourselves on our bespoke service and personal touch. For example, we recently hosted a girls’ trip and provided an English tea experience with an elegant setup. Speak with us ahead of time to see if we can accommodate your request and we will do our best to create an indelible experience.

Fling Before the Ring

Every bride needs a break from wedding planning, and if you’re looking for a Lake of the Ozarks bachelorette party, you're in luck! Besides a day spent on the water, bar hopping is one of the most popular things to do at LOTO.

Here are some of the best spots for bar hopping and dining before saying “I do”:

Shady Gators
Franky & Louie's BeachFront Bar & Grill
Horny Toad Complex
The Branding Iron Restaurant & Saloon

Whether you are dancing the night away or just getting a drink at the bar, please remember to stay safe on the water.