Your Guide to Communities Around Lake of the Ozarks: Camden, Miller & Morgan Counties

Whether you're looking for a peaceful lakeside retreat, a small-town atmosphere, or a vibrant vacation hub, the Lake of the Ozarks region offers something for everyone. As a local real estate expert in the Lake of the Ozarks area, I serve a variety of towns across Camden, Miller, and Morgan counties—each with its own charm, history, and lifestyle. Here's a closer look at what makes each community special, along with key information to help you find your perfect place to live, invest, or vacation.

If you're searching for homes for sale near Lake of the Ozarks, lakefront property, or planning to relocate to Missouri's premier lake region, this guide will give you valuable insight into the local communities, schools, amenities, and nearby airports.

🧭 Regional Overview

The combined population of Camden, Miller, and Morgan counties—home to the Lake of the Ozarks—was approximately 105,000 in 2023. Here's a quick breakdown:

• Camden County: 43,400 residents (2023)

• Miller County: 25,100 residents (2023)

• Morgan County: 21,970 residents (2023)

This diverse and growing population makes the region one of Missouri's most dynamic destinations for real estate, recreation, and retirement living.

✈️ Nearby Airports

• Lee C. Fine Memorial Airport (AIZ) – Located in Lake of the Ozarks State Park, near Osage Beach. Great for private aircraft and charter flights.

• Camdenton Memorial Airport (H21) – Located just outside Camdenton. Serves general aviation needs and is the closest airport to the south side of the lake.

• Waynesville-St. Robert Regional Airport (TBN) – Located about 60 minutes southeast, offers limited commercial flights.

• Springfield-Branson National Airport (SGF) – Approximately 90 minutes southwest. Full-service commercial airport.

• Columbia Regional Airport (COU) – About 90 minutes north. Offers commercial service with major carriers.

Camden County 🛥️ 🌊 🏘️ 🌳 🛍️

Camden County is the heart of the Lake of the Ozarks region, encompassing much of the lake’s southern shoreline and some of the most visited recreational spots in Missouri. With towns like Osage Beach, Camdenton, and Sunrise Beach, the county blends tourism with year-round living. Camden County is home to Ha Ha Tonka State Park, a strong public school system, and a variety of lakefront neighborhoods, golf courses, and marinas. Whether you're a retiree, a growing family, or a vacation home buyer, Camden County offers something for everyone.

Osage Beach

Description:
Osage Beach is the vibrant heart of the Lake of the Ozarks region, known for its mix of residential living, tourism, shopping, dining, and lakefront activities. With popular attractions like the Osage Beach Outlet Marketplace and numerous resorts, it’s a prime spot for full-time residents and vacation homeowners alike.

History:
Originally named Zebra in 1886, the town was renamed Osage Beach in 1935 as it evolved into a hub of tourism following the creation of the lake.

Population:
Approximately 4,637 (2023)

School District:

• Elementary: Osage Beach Elementary

• Middle: Osage Middle School

• High School: Osage High School
  The district, School of the Osage, is known for strong academics, community involvement, and extracurricular opportunities for students.

Distance to Nearest Hospital:
Lake Regional Hospital is located in Osage Beach.

Lake Proximity:
Located on the Grand Glaize Arm, from mile marker 19 to mile marker 28.

Camdenton

Description:
Camdenton offers a welcoming small-town feel with convenient access to lake recreation and natural beauty. It serves as the seat of Camden County and features attractions like Ha Ha Tonka State Park and Bridal Cave.

History:
Camdenton was created in the 1930s when the original town of Linn Creek was flooded to create the Lake of the Ozarks.

Population:
Approximately 3,718 (2023)

School District:

• Elementary: Dogwood Elementary, Hawthorn Elementary

• Middle: Camdenton Middle School

• High School: Camdenton High School
  The Camdenton R-III School District is one of the largest in the region, known for its marching band and strong sports programs.

Distance to Nearest Hospital:
Approximately 9 miles to Lake Regional Hospital.

Lake Proximity:
Located near the Niangua Arm, mile markers 31 to 35.

Sunrise Beach

Description:
Sunrise Beach is a peaceful lakefront town offering beautiful views, quiet neighborhoods, and a slower pace. It’s perfect for retirees, vacationers, and those seeking serenity with lake access.

History:
Founded in 1932, its name reflects its position on the west side of the lake where the sun rises over the water.

Population:
Approximately 431 (2023)

School District:

• Elementary: Hurricane Deck Elementary

• Middle: Camdenton Middle School

• High School: Camdenton High School
  Served primarily by Camdenton R-III, with parts also in Morgan County R-II, both known for their strong rural education systems.

Distance to Nearest Hospital:
Approximately 16 miles to Lake Regional Hospital.

Lake Proximity:
Main Channel, mile markers 24 to 28.

Linn Creek

Description:
A small, quiet town nestled between Camdenton and Osage Beach. Linn Creek offers peaceful neighborhoods and quick access to shopping, dining, and lake recreation.

History:
The original town was submerged during the creation of the lake in the 1930s, and the new town was rebuilt nearby.

Population:
Approximately 216 (2023)

School District:

• Elementary: Dogwood Elementary

• Middle: Camdenton Middle School

• High School: Camdenton High School
  Part of the Camdenton R-III School District, with strong community and extracurricular support.

Distance to Nearest Hospital:
Approximately 6 miles to Lake Regional Hospital.

Lake Proximity:
Niangua Arm, mile markers 31 to 35.

Roach

Description:
Roach is a secluded, heavily wooded area ideal for those wanting privacy, space, and proximity to nature. It’s known for affordable land and its peaceful, rural vibe.

History:
A small, unincorporated town that grew along with lake area development in the mid-20th century.

Population:
Small unincorporated area

School District:

• Elementary: Dogwood Elementary

• Middle: Camdenton Middle School

• High School: Camdenton High School
  Served by Camdenton R-III, known for its comprehensive programs and support services.

Distance to Nearest Hospital:
Approximately 20 miles to Lake Regional Hospital.

Lake Proximity:
Niangua Arm, mile markers 37 to 40.

Montreal

Description:
Montreal is a quiet, agricultural community surrounded by rolling hills and forest. Residents enjoy a country lifestyle just a short drive from the lake and major towns.

History:
Established in the 1800s as a rural farming settlement in southeast Camden County.

Population:
Approximately 2,000 including surrounding rural area (2023)

School District:

• Elementary: Dogwood Elementary

• Middle: Camdenton Middle School

• High School: Camdenton High School
  Part of the Camdenton R-III School District, offering rural-focused education and youth support programs.

Distance to Nearest Hospital:
Approximately 15 miles to Lake Regional Hospital.

Lake Proximity:
Approximately 10–15 miles from lake access near mile markers 34–36.

Morgan County 🌅 🌲 🐟 🚤 🏡

Morgan County covers the lake’s western reaches and includes towns like Laurie, Gravois Mills, and Versailles. Known for its peaceful pace, natural beauty, and affordable lakefront property, Morgan County is a favorite among retirees, second-home owners, and anyone seeking a quieter alternative to the lake’s busier areas. The county supports a strong sense of community, charming downtowns, and wide-open countryside while still offering access to marinas, shopping, and lake recreation.

Laurie

Description:
Laurie is a friendly lakeside town known for its community events, local shops, and scenic views. It’s popular with retirees and vacation homeowners and serves as a hub for the west side of the lake.

History:
Established in the mid-1900s during a wave of lake-area development, Laurie quickly became a center for residential growth and tourism.

Population:
Approximately 980 (2023)

School District:

• Elementary: South Elementary School

• Middle: Morgan County R-I Middle School

• High School: Morgan County R-I High School
  The Morgan County R-I School District is small and community-oriented, offering solid academic and extracurricular programs.

Distance to Nearest Hospital:
Approximately 15 miles to Lake Regional Hospital.

Lake Proximity:
Located near the Gravois Arm, mile markers 7 to 10.

Gravois Mills

Description:
Gravois Mills is a laid-back village offering lake access, campgrounds, and a quiet lifestyle. It's ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and those looking for rustic charm.

History:
Named after Gravois Creek, this early settlement played a role in supplying timber and farm goods during lake construction and has remained a quiet lakeside community.

Population:
Approximately 170 (2023)

School District:

• Elementary: South Elementary School

• Middle: Morgan County R-I Middle School

• High School: Morgan County R-I High School

Distance to Nearest Hospital:
Approximately 18 miles to Lake Regional Hospital.

Lake Proximity:
Gravois Arm, mile markers 6 to 8.

Stover

Description:
Stover is a small, rural town just north of the lake, known for its peaceful setting and charming downtown. It’s a great option for those seeking land or affordability with lake proximity.

History:
Founded in 1903 and named after Missouri congressman John Hubler Stover, it grew quickly as a farming and railroad town.

Population:
Approximately 1,094 (2023)

School District:

• Elementary: Stover Elementary

• Middle: Morgan County R-I Middle School

• High School: Morgan County R-I High School

Distance to Nearest Hospital:
Approximately 30 miles to Lake Regional Hospital.

Lake Proximity:
Roughly 15 miles north of the lake, near mile marker 8.

Versailles

Description:
Versailles is the county seat of Morgan County and features a historic downtown, festivals like the Old Tyme Apple Festival, and a strong sense of community pride.

History:
Established in the early 1800s, Versailles has long served as a government, retail, and cultural center for the area.

Population:
Approximately 2,482 (2023)

School District:

• Elementary: Versailles Elementary School

• Middle: Morgan County R-II Middle School

• High School: Morgan County R-II High School
  The Morgan County R-II School District offers quality programs, competitive athletics, and small class sizes.

Distance to Nearest Hospital:
Approximately 30 miles to Lake Regional Hospital.

Lake Proximity:
Approximately 15 miles north of the lake, near mile marker 8.

Climax Springs

Description:
A quiet, secluded area known for its forests, fishing spots, and off-the-beaten-path lake homes, Climax Springs is perfect for outdoor lovers and those wanting a private setting.

History:
Once known for its natural springs with supposed healing properties, the village was officially incorporated in 1931.

Population:
Approximately 118 (2023)

School District:

• Elementary: Climax Springs Elementary

• Middle: Climax Springs Middle School

• High School: Climax Springs High School
  The Climax Springs R-IV School District is small and close-knit, offering individualized attention and lake-related youth activities.

Distance to Nearest Hospital:
Approximately 25 miles to Lake Regional Hospital.

Lake Proximity:
Located near the Little Niangua Arm, mile markers 45 to 50.

Miller County 🚗 🏠 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 🎣 🏕️

Miller County lies just north and east of the lake and includes the eastern gateway to the Lake of the Ozarks—Lake Ozark and Bagnell Dam. While it’s one of the smaller counties in terms of population, it offers convenient access to both tourism and quieter residential life. With its blend of historic communities like Eldon and Tuscumbia, excellent school districts, and proximity to the lake, Miller County is perfect for those seeking small-town living with lake access just minutes away.

Lake Ozark

Description:
Lake Ozark is a lively community at the lake’s eastern end, known for its historic Bagnell Dam Strip, restaurants, nightlife, and easy access to boating. A popular tourist destination and primary entry point for many.

History:
Developed in the 1930s alongside the construction of Bagnell Dam, it has remained a central feature of the lake.

Population:
Approximately 2,077 (2023)

School District:

• Elementary: Heritage Elementary (School of the Osage)

• Middle: Osage Middle School

• High School: Osage High School

Distance to Nearest Hospital:
Approximately 8 miles to Lake Regional Hospital.

Lake Proximity:
Main Channel, mile markers 0 to 4.

Eldon

Description:
Just north of the lake, Eldon is a thriving community with a walkable downtown, strong school system, and excellent parks. Great for families and commuters.

History:
Established in the 1800s as a railroad town, Eldon’s growth accelerated during the lake’s development.

Population:
Approximately 4,895 (2023)

School District:

• Elementary: Eldon South and Upper Elementary

• Middle: Eldon Middle School

• High School: Eldon High School
  The Eldon R-I School District is one of the top-rated districts in the area, with strong extracurriculars and academic performance.

Distance to Nearest Hospital:
Approximately 17 miles to Lake Regional Hospital.

Lake Proximity:
Roughly 11 miles to lake access near mile marker 1.

Tuscumbia

Description:
A quiet rural town and the county seat of Miller County, Tuscumbia sits along the Osage River and offers a small-town lifestyle with nearby recreation.

History:
One of the oldest towns in the area, it was settled in the 1830s and retains much of its original charm.

Population:
Approximately 191 (2023)

School District:

• Elementary–High School: Tuscumbia School District (PK–12)
  The Miller County R-III School District is very small, offering close-knit class sizes and community involvement.

Distance to Nearest Hospital:
Approximately 25 miles to Lake Regional Hospital.

Lake Proximity:
Approximately 15 miles northeast of the lake, near mile marker 5.

Kaiser

Description:
A quiet, unincorporated area near Lake of the Ozarks State Park, Kaiser is ideal for nature lovers, campers, and those wanting close access to the lake without the crowds.

History:
Named for a local family, Kaiser has remained a small but scenic part of the lake region since the early 1900s.

Population:
Approximately 1,271 (2023)

School District:

• Elementary: Osage Beach Elementary

• Middle: Osage Middle School

• High School: Osage High School
  Served by School of the Osage, which is known for strong academic and extracurricular offerings.

Distance to Nearest Hospital:
Approximately 5 miles to Lake Regional Hospital.

Lake Proximity:
Grand Glaize Arm, mile markers 23 to 26.

If you ever have questions about the Lake of the Ozarks—whether it’s local communities, lakefront homes, hidden hot spots, or the best outdoor trails—I’m here to help! I’d love to share what I know and help you feel right at home in this beautiful area.
Want a deeper look at the buying process? Grab my free Buyer’s Guide for tips and insights to help you get started. You can also check out more local info, market updates, and behind-the-scenes content on my blog to get to know me better!

Let’s find your perfect place at the lake. 🌊🏡🌅

Lindsey MacomberRealtor® | Swift & Co Realty, brokered by eXp Realty

📧 Lindsey@Swiftandcorealty.com

📞 417-322-4205

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