Netflix show notwithstanding, the Ozarks region in southern Missouri and northern Arkansas isn’t well-known to most travelers.
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The hilly, forested region revolves around the manmade reservoir, called Lake of the Ozarks instead of Ozark Lake. It’s a serpentine-like series of waterways created by damming the Osage River—you’ll notice it’s called the Missouri Dragon in some towns thanks to its unique formation.
Picture rolling highlands of expansive forests, interspersed with towns and byways that open to the 54,000-acre manmade lake. Water adventures aside, you can also hike across the area’s ample trails. It’s the stuff of quaint travel dreams, especially if you appreciate a little down-home hospitality.
If you like fast boats, you’ll also enjoy the annual Ozarks Shootout, which features speedboat races. Similar yee-haw adventures abound—remember: the Ozarks is Jesse James territory, meaning there’s a Dukes of Hazzard-style approach to life in some areas.
If that sounds like a good time, you can reach the Lake of the Ozarks via cities like Saint Louis, Kansas City, or Springfield. Stay at one of these Airbnbs on Lake of the Ozarks for a seamless, peaceful trip.
[This article is part of TravelAwaits new Airbnb and Vrbo recommendation series. We dig into listings to identify the crème de la crème of Guest Favorites, Superhost listings, and hidden gems to make finding the perfect rental for your next trip a breeze.]
Best Airbnbs on Lake of the Ozarks: short list
- Most remote: Blue Cottage Cove (Edwards)
- Best outdoor space: Rippling Point Lakefront House (Edwards)
- Best lakeside setup: Moonrise Bluff Lake House (Warsaw)
- Coziest amenities: Cabin at Blue Branch (Warsaw)
- Best lakeside activities: Sunset Lake Retreat (Lake Ozark)
- Best for boating: Lakefront Cabin (Osage Beach)
- Best views of the Ozarks: New Luxury Retreat (Roach)
- Most luxurious: Lakefront Home on the Point (Gravois Mills)
Best Airbnbs on Lake of the Ozarks
Blue Cottage Cove (Edwards)
If you’re looking for a quiet getaway on the Lake of the Ozarks, head to this peaceful outpost on Mile Marker 71. You’ll have a remote experience on the water, whether you want to kayak, canoe, or paddleboard. The home also has a cozy outdoor setup, including a fire pit, grill, and a screened deck that lets you enjoy the outdoors without all the critters coming to say hello. The home’s third bedroom also has a cool triple-twin setup that kids will love.
Rippling Point Lakefront House (Edwards)
If you’re looking for a private escape that maximizes your time in the outdoors, look no further. Like the last Edwards rental (above), you can expect a truly peaceful getaway on this quiet corner of Lake of the Ozarks, where neighbors are spread out, and wildlife abounds. The home comes with a hot tub that overlooks the lake, along with a fire pit and a small outdoor kitchenette with a grill. There’s also a fishing dock with two kayaks for you to use to glide through the water.
Moonrise Bluff Lake House (Warsaw)
If you’re hoping to bring your boat, this Warsaw three-bedroom comes with a covered dock, boat slip, and boat ramp. There’s also a large stone patio overlooking the water, with plenty of seating. Aside from the great lakeside setup, this home also offers a beautiful interior and a prime location close to Warsaw’s charming downtown area. Kids will also enjoy the sleeping loft, which has a double bed setup.
Cabin at Blue Branch (Warsaw)
Also located in Warsaw, this log cabin offers a highly cozy stay that you can enjoy with up to eight guests. (Couples would also appreciate the setup.) The star of the show is the hot tub on the back deck, which overlooks the water, along with the functioning fireplace. There’s also a back deck with tree coverage, a fire pit, and a private dock that comes with kayaks, letting you maximize your time outdoors.
Sunset Lake Retreat (Lake Ozark)
This large three-bedroom home gives you plenty of space to soak up the Lake of the Ozarks. There’s a large private dock with a swimming platform, inflatables, kayaks, and two boat slips. The dock also faces west, giving you beautiful sunset views across the water and hills. Lastly, this rental’s location is hard to beat—you’ll have access to Lake Ozark’s top attractions, from restaurants with live music to go-kart and mini golf adventures.
Lakefront Cabin (Osage Beach)
You have access to boating slips at many Airbnbs in the Lake of the Ozarks, but this four-bedroom rental stands out thanks to its dock setup. The home is located in a quiet cove at Mile Marker 28, perfect for enjoying the provided paddleboards and swimming. There’s also a fishing setup for you to enjoy, a water mat for sunbathing, and a covered spot for a boat (slip included). There are two boat launches nearby, too. Lastly, the home includes a screened-in porch and outdoor dining area, both perched right above the water.
New Luxury Retreat (Roach)
If you’re looking for peaceful and quiet Airbnbs in the Lake of the Ozarks, this is another great choice (in addition to the first listing on this page). Though the rental has neighbors, it offers expansive, unspoiled views of the lake and surrounding hills—you’ll find your zen in no time. The home also has a large dock with paddleboards, a covered spot for a boat, a sitting area, and a tiki bar—yes, all on the dock. The home also has a fresh, modern interior and a covered porch where you can enjoy lake views next to a fire pit.
Lakefront Home on the Point (Gravois Mills)
With near-panoramic views of the lake at this 2021 new build, you’ll vacation in the lap of luxury—no rustic features in sight. The large dock is perfect for swimming, fishing, lounging, and more. The home also has a large yard right on the water, with a fire pit and covered balcony for added outdoor time. The living room also has large windows overlooking the water, creating a spacious feel that you’ll appreciate, especially if you fill up all four bedrooms.
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