Lake of the Ozarks, hidden in between the gentle peaks of the Ozarks, is a rare find. Not a spoiled vacation land run amok, but a jewel glimmering in the silvery sunlight. The lake travels a serpentine route through 92 miles of meandering canyons, creating more shoreline than the State of Florida. Vacationers have enjoyed this hideaway since 1931 when the Bagnell Dam was completed. Yet it is practically unknown outside of the middle of the nation, and I do mean the middle of the nation. Look at a map of the U.S.A. and Lake of the Ozarks is not only in the middle of Missouri, but the center of the nation.

You can bring your own boat, rent one, or go on one of the many cruises and let some one else pilot the boat. There are boat slips at various locations throughout the lake. There are approximately 100 marinas or marine related services. Rentals are available for anything from a jet ski to a house boat.

As far as activities other than the lake, there are plenty. If you golf there are 15 golf courses. For the kids there are 4 family parks, 7 miniature golf courses, and 7 Go-cart tracks. Plus the largest state park in Missouri.

Everyone will be astonished at the famous Bridal Cave. A vast underground network of caves, they are both awe inspiring and beautiful, some have never been open to the public until recently. As the name suggests, the walls of this cavern have echoed many a vow of undying love.

There are over 40 restaurants that are located on the water. One of the most popular is "Captain's Gallery Floating Restaurant & Bar". This is a full service restaurant that serves a variety of foods from sandwiches to Caribbean seafood. With live music on the week ends it is a hot spot with locals and visitors alike.

For the lunch or brunch you may want to stop in at the "On the Rise Bakery" in Osage Beach on highway 54. This is a very cozy bakery with an incredible selection. It was voted one of the top ten restaurants by Southern Living Magazine. Get a sugar dusted pastry or specialty salad or soup. Perhaps a glass of fine wine as you watch the sunset?

Maybe you just want to get a pizza. Try one from "T'Z Pizzaria" on Horseshoe bend in Lake Ozark. Try the ‘everything' pizza it will knock you socks off and your taste buds will jump for joy.

Then there is always the "Topsider" for late night action. This is strictly for the high energy crowd. They play the high tech sounds and have a dj every night. VIP lounge and privacy booths are available.

Lake of the Ozarks is located in central Missouri. It is 165 miles southeast of Kansas City and 175 miles southwest of St. Louis. It is accessible via U.S. Highway 54 and State Highways 5, 7, 42 and 135. If you are flying in there are five airports to choose from: Camdenton, Eldon, Osage Beach, Versailles, and Lee C. Fine.

So whether you are getting down to Party Cove, or looking for serenity among the solemn shadows of the jagged cliffs and lush forests, you will not be disappointed with the Lake of the Ozarks.