Three major lakes - Truman, Stockton and Pomme
de Terre - dominate the landscape. Together, these lakes offer 1,369
miles of undeveloped shoreline and 16 full- service marinas
Truman
Lake, in the region's center, is one of the Midwest's largest
impoundments. For the big picture, stop by the Corps of Engineers
visitors center near the dam. Perched high atop a bluff, the center
offers a dramatic view of the 55,600-acre reservoir. Bring your
fishing gear, because Truman Lake has earned rave reviews for its
largemouth bass, catfish and crappie.
Head south for more water fun at Stockton and
Pomme de Terre. Stockton Lake's 24,900 acres, nestled among rolling,
tree-covered hills, entice anglers with abundant small mouth and
largemouth bass, walleye and crappie. Even if you're not an angler,
you're sure to find plenty to do, including sailing, camping,
water-skiing, hiking and picnicking.
Pomme de Terre Lake and State Park boast
several public-use areas offering camping and recreational
facilities and services. Fishing is good year-round, but there's a
special flurry in autumn as anglers seek out the lake's most feisty
residents, trophy muskellunge.
Sedalia, once the end of the trail for cattle
drives, is where Scott Joplin became famous for his ragtime music.
In June, fans flock here for the Scott Joplin Ragtime Festival and
August brings the Missouri State Fair. Bothwell Lodge State Historic
Site, the Katy Trail for hikers and bikers, and exciting State Fair
Raceway races are all favorite points of interest.
West of Sedalia, you can camp or fish amid
beautiful scenery at Knob Noster State Park. Further west is Warrensburg, home of Central Missouri State University. Be sure to
stop by the old courthouse, site of a famous trial over a dog named
Old Drum.
History, scenery and more attractions await
you on the western side of the region. The Bates County Museum of
Pioneer History in Butler's historic downtown is a popular stop.
Nevada's Bushwhacker Museum recalls Civil War guerrilla activities
in this area. Further south is Lamar and President Harry Truman's
birthplace.
Whether you're relaxing at a family resort
near the water, visiting an art or history museum or enjoying the
scenery along a country road, you'll be glad you visited Missouri's
Osage Lakes Region. For vacation fun, it's a "natural."
Water, and plenty
of it, is a big part of the appeal in the Osage Lakes Region. Nearly
half of the state's impounded waters await visitors here in
west-central Missouri. You'll also find generous helpings of
history, scenic countryside, state parks and friendly towns.