The ultimate list of things to do on Table Rock Lake nestled in southwest Missouri and Northern Arkansas. It’s just a short drive from St. Louis and Kansas City and a quick flight from midwest cities!
Known for its clear water, Table Rock Lake boasts almost 800 miles of shoreline and a wide array of activities on and off the water! (See things to do in Branson). In the 50’s, the Corp of Engineers constructed a dam on the White River for flood control and a recreational lake was formed, creating hydroelectric power. It was named Table Rock Lake for it’s rock shelf above the white river, which is visible along the shoreline.
After visiting Table Rock Lake with my family for over 30 years, we purchased a lake house and have continued to explore the lake in depth over the last 9 years! The lake offers something for everyone. Kick back, relax and enjoy the lake like a local with this list of things to do and a convenient map.
Things to Do on Table Rock Lake
Fishing
Table Rock is known for fishing and hosts an abundance of tournaments throughout the year. The lake is full of Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, White Bass, Crappie, Bluegill, Catfish, Long Ear Sunfish, Walleye, Warmouth, Striped Bass and Paddlefish.
A fishing permit is required unless you meet one of the exemptions, but easily accessible online. Learn more about Missouri fishing regulations and Arkansas fishing regulations.
Walking and Hiking
There are beautiful walking and hiking trails alongside the lake. The lakeshore trail is suitable for all ages. It is a flat, shaded 2 mile trail along the shoreline, connecting the Dewey Short Visitor Center, the Branson Showboat and Table Rock State Park. White River Valley Trail System, and Chinquapin Trail, which are connected. Nearby, Ruth and Paul Henning Conservation Area has a beautiful lookout and picturesque trails. Dogwood Canyon has a 6 mile walking path and 2 mile trail with general admission (dynamic pricing starts at $19 for adults).
Jump Off the Rope Swings
One of the most memorable experiences at Table Rock Lake is jumping off the rope swings! It was always a favorite of mine as a child and now our girls get to share in the joy!
It’s fun for all ages and a great gathering place when the lake is at or around normal pool (915 elevation).
Jump off a Cliff
There are several great cliffs to jump off on the expansive lake from Long Creek, Battleship Point, Baxter and more! See the map for locations!
Please note this activity comes at a risk. We prefer off-peak days and times when few boats are present and waves are minimal.
Eat on the Water
Table Rock Lake boasts several floating and lakeside restaurants from Memorial Day to Labor Day. I’ve shared a complete list of Table Rock Lake Restaurants with a map, menus, contact information, hours, docking instructions and more!
Of course I always pack our favorite Boat Snacks to enjoy on the water, including Snackle Boxes!
Boating
Don’t have a boat? No problem! Rent a boat or a wave runner from a marina on the water!
- Indian Point Marina
- State Park Marina
- Port of Kimberling Marina
- Rock Lane
- Baxter Marina
- Cape Fair Marina
- Big M Marina
- Campbell Point Marina
- Hideaway Marina
- Kings River Marina
- Eagle Rock Marina
- Cricket Creek Marina
- Stillwater Marina guests only
- Long Creek Marina guests only
- Bent Hook Marina guests only
Don’t worry, if you don’t feel comfortable driving a boat, there are plenty of options!
The catamaran is a great way to explore and play on the lake. They have a variety of water activities including several inflatables. I highly recommend! Though we have a boat and an abundance of water toys, our girls look forward to it.
Hire a captain! A licensed Captain can create a memorable day on the lake! Captain Jake’s Lake Adventures has been around for several years and highly revered in the community.
Water Sports
The lake is a great place to learn how to water ski, tube, surf, knee board, wake board and more! Items can be purchased or rented at the Ski Shack at Indian Point or from the Marina you rent a boat from.
Take a Sunset Cruise
Boating is of course always a highlight at the lake, but the sunsets are beyond breathtaking! You can drop your boat at one of the many public access ramps, rent a boat or take the Showboat Branson Belle, Catamaran, Goin Jessi or Lady Liberty for a cruise.
Watch Fireworks
There are fireworks Memorial Day weekend, 4th of July weekend and Labor Day weekend in addition to the Branson Belle fireworks which give locals and boaters a free display throughout the summer (see their site for cruise dates).
There’s nothing quite like the reflection of fireworks on the water. It’s truly magical.
Go to the Beach
Swim
There are a number of great places to swim at Table Rock Lake. Visit a beach, find a quiet cove or even a lively one and enjoy!
Moonshine Beach is the only public sandy beach on Table Rock Lake with a $5 day use fee. It is only accessible at a normal or low pool. Refer to Shoreline Management for details. They offer changing rooms, picnic shelters and limited parking. It’s always a favorite with the kiddos! Located at 3778 MO-165, Branson, Missouri 65616. Big Cedar Lodge and Stillwater resorts have sandy beaches exclusive to their guests.
Campgrounds also offer day use and public swimming areas for a small fee.
Dewey Short Visitor Center
The Dewey Short Visitor Center is a great way to get a close up view of the Table Rock Dam! Take a break on a cold or rainy day and enjoy the view and activities at the free visitor’s center. Build a dam, read a book or enjoy one of the interactive activities while learning about the hydroelectric dam. Just across the road you can see water released when the Corp opens the spillways! It’s connected to several trails that are perfect for an easy walk or bike ride!
Catch a Boat Show or Regatta
- The Classics Cruisin’ Boat Show is always a great time! You can catch them at a number of places across the lake or watch them cruise! It’s always fun to see. They even have activities for kids, like coloring their very own wood boats to set sail.
- Join a Regatta like this one for Cobalt (I’m sure there are many more!)
Pull up a Swing
Grab a drink while listening to live music at Parrot’s Pavilion Tiki Bar. You can enjoy games and cocktails waterside. You’ll often find live music, but you’ll always find a good time. Go ahead and pull up a swing at the bar or take a dip in their new pool!
Look for Seashells
While nestled in the middle of the country, you can find an abundance of seashells along the shoreline! One of our favorite spots to collect is along the shoreline at Hideaway Marina, but you’ll often find them on the islands as well!
Shop
A few of the Marinas have well curated boutiques filled with great gifts, swimwear and more. State Park Marina, Hideaway Marina and Campbell Point are favorites, but they all have a little something to offer!
- State Park Marina
- Hideaway Marina
- Indian Point Marina
- Kings River Marina
- Point of Kimberling Marina
- Cape Fair Marina
- Big M Marina
- Campbell Point Marin
- Eagle Rock Marina
- Baxter Marina
- Long Creek Marina
- Cricket Creek Marina
- Bent Hook Marina
Of course who doesn’t love shopping for life jackets, flip flops, wake boards, skis and more? Ski Shack is a great go-to on the water.
See a Waterfall
Cruise to Devil’s Pool at Big Cedar to experience a gorgeous waterfall up close.
Kayak
Bring your own or rent a kayak at State Park Marina, Stillwaters, Big Cedar or the resort you are visiting. It’s a great way to take in the true beauty of Table Rock Lake and see the layers of rock up close.
Paddleboard
Enjoy the gentle waters in a cove while sneaking a little workout in.
Paddle Boat
Rent a paddle boat at the resort you’re staying at, or State Park Marina.
Sail
Take the catamaran out for a cruise with an array of activities, including a giant slide.
Scubadiving
The lake is fun above and below the water’s surface! There are so many places to explore including Zebulon Pike, the former town of Oasis, The Enchanted Forest and Duck Island. Book with the Indian Point Dive Center 417-338-6900 or White River Dive Company 417-334-9073.
Slalom Course
There are 4 slalom courses nestled on Table Rock.
- Little Cow Creek
- Just past Hideaway Marina before Point 9
- Lower Kings River Just past Kings River Marina
- Little Indian Creek/Dogwood Creek
Enjoy the Wildlife
Each day and season brings something new! Watch deer drink from the lake, search for the eagles as they search for fish, see turtles, turkeys, fox, songbirds and more.
Wave to a Stranger
There are so many friendly faces on Table Rock Lake. Nothing brings me more joy than seeing everyone smile, wave and support local! You can connect with them on the Table Rock Lake Facebook Group as well!
Table Rock Lake Map
Find everything mentioned above and more on this interactive map.
Did I miss something? If so, leave it in the comments below!
Hi, Julie. Thanks for all the great information. We’re going to Table Rock for the first time just after everything gets rolling (after Memorial Day weekend). I am looking forward to some water time (if it’s not too cold), a bit of fishing (which I hadn’t done in years until some salt water fishing in Florida this year), and some Tiki time… which could start any day after noon rolls around. We’ll be just off 13 Hwy at the Holiday Inn Club Vacations properties, so I hope there are things to do right around that area. All the best to you and your family.
That’s right by Kimberling City in Lampe! You’ll be by Pop’s, which has amazing views and lake front dining and are within reach of everything you mentioned. If you need anything, let me know! I hope you enjoy a wonderful vacation!
Loved your article! Spent an hour searching the internet exactly for this type of information.
Thank you! Please let me know if you need anything along the way! I hope you enjoy it as much as we do!
You forgot scuba diving. Indian Point Dive Center has scuba diving for all levels from beginners to advanced certified.
Great blog!
Thank you, Barbara! Hope you visit again soon!
Great information. I have been coming to TRL since 1971 and learned new things.
So happy to hear that, Debbie! Thank you!