The Incredible Road Trip Through Missouri That Leads You To 7 Stunning Lakes

With so many beautiful lakes in Missouri, we're never too far from our next adventure, whether we feel like kayaking, swimming, or simply hiking on a trail that meanders along the water's edge. Where will your next adventure take you? How about on this road trip to Missouri's best lakes? Pack up your car and hit the road for an epic adventure.

Map out your trip!

Explore some of the best lakes in Missouri on this road trip that will take you to seven beautiful bodies of water. Block out at least a few days to follow this road trip that features nearly eight hours of drive time. Check out the Google Maps directions. You can easily customize them. Add or remove stops to meet your timeframe and interests. Whatever you do, have fun!

1. Table Rock Lake – Branson

Can you think of a better place to start a road trip than with a visit to Table Rock Lake, one of the most epic lakes in Missouri? Missouri's deepest lake boasts a full menu of activities, whether you want to spend a hot summer day swimming or kayaking or you plan to enjoy a picnic on a cool day. If you've got the time, carve out a few hours to explore Table Rock State Park on one of its scenic hiking trails.

2. Lake Taneycomo – Branson

Our next natural stop is also in Branson. Lake Taneycomo is a manmade lake that's fed by Table Rock Lake and well-worth a visit. The pretty lake is perhaps best known for its trout fishing, boating, and kayaking. If you've worked up an appetite, stop by one of Branson Landing's waterfront restaurants for a bite before you head to our next destination.

3. Fellows Lake – Springfield

Plenty of amenities await at Fellows Lake, where you can enjoy a leisurely picnic by the water, watch the kiddos at the playground, or go boating on the lake. For some of the best views of the lake, follow the five-mile Fellows Lake Trail. The picturesque path leads through a wooded area and to the water.

4. Stockton Lake – Dadeville

Our next stop brings us to Stockton State Park, home to the 25,000-acre Stockon Lake. You'll find plenty to do at this seemingly endless lake - boating, swimming and lounging on the sandy beach, and fishing. The lake is home to catfish, walleye, and bass.

5. Pomme de Terre Lake – Pittsburg

Soak up the sun on the sandy shore, if you're road-tripping during the summer, before jumping into Pomme de Terre Lake at Pomme de Terre State Park. If you prefer spending time on the water, while away the hours kayaking or boating. Sometimes a day simply isn't enough, and this Missouri state park is perfect for an overnight. Rent one of the yurts that's just steps from the water.

6. Lake of the Ozarks – Kaiser

You could probably spend a week, if not more, at Lake of the Ozarks State Park, the largest state park in Missouri. The masterpiece of this 17,400-acre state park is undeniably the manmade Lake of the Ozarks. Spend the day swimming in the cool water or water skiing. Boating and kayaking are also popular.

7. Smithville Lake – Smithville

Our final stop on this epic road trip brings us to Smithville Lake. The 7,200-acre lake is particularly popular with beachgoers in the summer. However, if you're up for an adventure, follow one of the trails that wanders along the shoreline. Save some time to go boating and fishing, too.

What other lakes would you add to the road trip to Missouri's best lakes? (Well, some of 'em.) Let us know in the comments! If this epic road trip has your wanderlust in overdrive, keep exploring! Start by checking out these unforgettable road trips in Missouri. Before setting off on this road trip, check out OIYS' road trip essentials packing list.

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