Table Rock Lake

Location: Southwestern Missouri / Northwestern Arkansas in the Ozarks, USA

Table Rock Lake, straddling the border of Arkansas and Missouri, is one of the most beloved recreational lakes in the Ozark Mountains.

43,100 acres

Surface Area

220 ft

Max Depth

750 miles

Shoreline

1958

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About Table Rock Lake

Table Rock Lake was created in 1958 following the construction of the Table Rock Dam on the White River by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The project aimed to provide flood control and hydroelectric power, but the resulting reservoir quickly became a regional centerpiece for recreation. With more than 43,000 acres of water and over 750 miles of shoreline, the lake’s sprawling size offers both lively activity hubs and secluded coves perfect for peaceful getaways.

Surrounded by the rolling green hills of the Ozarks, the lake is set against a backdrop of rugged bluffs, hardwood forests, and vibrant wildlife. It’s a year-round destination, with summers bustling with water sports and fishing tournaments, while fall and spring bring breathtaking foliage and ideal conditions for hiking, camping, and exploring nearby attractions. Its location near Branson, Missouri, makes it especially popular with families combining lake adventures with the entertainment, dining, and cultural experiences of the city.

Key Features

Swimming Areas

Boating & Water Sports

Fishing (Diverse Species)

Marinas & Boat Services

Table Rock State Park

Picnic Areas & Outdoor Leisure

Minimal Water Level Fluctuation

Wildlife Viewing

Quick facts (at-a-glance)

Location: Southwestern Missouri / Northwestern Arkansas in the Ozarks
Size: About 43,100 surface acres
Shoreline: Over 750 miles of shoreline
Max Depth: Approximately 220 feet
Built: 1958 with Table Rock Dam on the White River
Primary Purpose: Flood control, hydroelectric power, and recreation
Nearby City: Branson, Missouri – less than 10 miles away

Table Rock Lake Vacation Homes For Rent

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Table Rock Lake EVENT GUIDE

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Table Rock Lake DINING GUIDE

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What you can do there

Swimming & Beaches: Several designated swimming areas with sandy beaches and gentle shorelines make it perfect for families and casual swimmers. Moonshine Beach is one of the most popular spots.

Boating & Water Sports: From jet skiing and water skiing to kayaking and paddleboarding, the lake caters to all skill levels. Large coves offer calm water for beginners, while the main channels are ideal for speed and open cruising.

Fishing: Anglers flock to Table Rock for its nationally known bass fishery, with largemouth, smallmouth, and spotted bass dominating the waters. The lake is also home to catfish, crappie, and bluegill. Several annual tournaments highlight its reputation.

Camping & Hiking: With campgrounds and hiking trails nearby, visitors can combine water fun with outdoor exploration. Table Rock State Park and Mark Twain National Forest provide excellent trails and scenic overlooks.

Wildlife Watching: Bald eagles, herons, deer, and wild turkeys are common sightings along the shores, particularly during quieter mornings and evenings.

Access, marinas & ramps

Public Access Points: Numerous public boat ramps are spread throughout the lake, making it easy to launch small boats or larger vessels.

Marinas: Major marinas such as State Park Marina, Indian Point Marina, and Baxter Marina offer boat rentals, slip rentals, fuel, and guided tours.

Road Access: The lake is conveniently accessible via U.S. Highway 65 and Missouri Highway 76, connecting visitors directly to Branson and Springfield.

Safety & regulations

Life Jacket Rules: Missouri and Arkansas law requires that all children under the age of 7 wear a U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jacket at all times while aboard a moving vessel. Adults are strongly encouraged to wear them as well.
Boating Regulations: No-wake zones are clearly marked around marinas, boat docks, and swimming areas. Boats must display proper navigation lights after sunset and before sunrise. Operating a boat while intoxicated is strictly prohibited and subject to heavy fines. Personal watercraft (jet skis) must follow distance regulations and are not allowed to jump wakes dangerously close to other vessels.
Fishing Licenses: Anglers must carry a valid fishing license for the state in which they are fishing. Since Table Rock Lake spans both Missouri and Arkansas, a reciprocal agreement allows licensed anglers from either state to fish most areas without needing two licenses. Some boundary waters exceptions may apply.
Wildlife & Environmental Protection: Littering is heavily fined. Visitors are encouraged to use designated waste disposal sites at marinas and campgrounds. Feeding or harassing wildlife is discouraged, as it disrupts natural ecosystems.
Swimming Safety: Swimming outside of designated swim beaches is allowed but recommended only with caution. Boat traffic can be heavy in open areas, so staying near buoys or shoreline coves is safest.

Gallery

Nearby highlights & suggested day trips

Branson, Missouri: Only a short drive from most points on the lake, Branson offers world-class entertainment with over 100 live music and theater shows, attractions such as Silver Dollar City amusement park, and family-friendly dining options. A day on the lake can easily transition into an evening in town.
Shepherd of the Hills Fish Hatchery: Located just below Table Rock Dam, this is one of Missouri’s largest trout-rearing facilities. Visitors can take guided tours, feed the fish, and learn about the trout stocking program that benefits Lake Taneycomo.
Lake Taneycomo: Directly downstream of Table Rock Dam, this cold-water lake is nationally recognized for rainbow and brown trout fishing. It provides a completely different angling experience compared to Table Rock’s warm-water species.
Ozark Mountain Trails: The White River Valley Trail System and Chinquapin Trail near the dam are great for hiking and mountain biking, offering views of the lake and abundant wildlife.
Eureka Springs, Arkansas: Just about an hour away, this historic Victorian town is full of unique shops, art galleries, spas, and the famous Thorncrown Chapel.
Dogwood Canyon Nature Park: Located south of the lake, this privately owned preserve features hiking, biking, horseback riding, and tram tours through stunning Ozark landscapes with waterfalls and caves.

Events & community

Table Rock Lake is the backdrop for numerous fishing tournaments, community festivals, and boating events throughout the year. The local marinas and towns often host fireworks displays on Independence Day, holiday boat parades, and lakeside concerts. Its close proximity to Branson also ensures a steady flow of seasonal events, making the area lively and community-oriented year-round. Residents and visitors alike take pride in preserving the lake’s beauty while enjoying its endless recreational opportunities.