Some of the best scenic drives near Lake of the Ozarks follow Highway 5, Highway 54, the roads leading to Ha Ha Tonka State Park, and the winding lake roads around Sunrise Beach.
These routes combine wooded Ozark hills, lake crossings, small communities, and plenty of opportunities to stop and explore. A scenic drive is also an easy addition to a day on the water or a break between other things to do in Lake of the Ozarks.
Pack some snacks, choose a few stops, and enjoy seeing another side of the Lake area.
Highway 5 Through the Lake Area
Highway 5 is one of the main routes serving the west side of Lake of the Ozarks. It runs through communities such as Camdenton, Sunrise Beach, Laurie, and Gravois Mills before continuing toward Versailles.
This route is especially worth driving in the fall. The Missouri Division of Tourism recommends Highway 5 as part of its Lake of the Ozarks fall driving loop, noting the colorful hillsides and lake views near the Hurricane Deck and Niangua bridges. Guests staying in our Lake of the Ozarks lodging on the west side can easily make Highway 5 part of a relaxed afternoon drive.
Highway 54 Around Lake of the Ozarks
Highway 54 is one of the area’s major roads, connecting Camdenton, Osage Beach, Lake Ozark, and communities beyond the Lake. Along the way, drivers cross the Niangua Arm and Grand Glaize Arm of Lake of the Ozarks.
The road offers a mix of lake scenery and convenient access to restaurants, shopping, golf courses, and attractions. For a longer outing, combine Highway 54 with Highway 5 and Highway 52 to create a loop through the region. This route is particularly attractive when fall colors cover the surrounding hills.
The Drive to Ha Ha Tonka State Park
For a scenic drive with a memorable destination, head toward Ha Ha Tonka State Park near Camdenton. From Highway 54, take State Road D into the park.
Once there, get out of the car and explore. Ha Ha Tonka is known for its stone castle ruins, bluffs, caves, sinkholes, natural bridge, and large natural spring. The castle area also provides impressive views across the Lake.
It is an excellent day-trip option for families staying in vacation rentals in Lake of the Ozarks, especially if you want to combine sightseeing with a short hike or picnic.
The Lake Roads Around Sunrise Beach
Sunrise Beach gives drivers access to some of the quieter roads on the west side of the Lake. Highway 5 runs through the community, while Routes F and TT connect with Route MM and other roads leading deeper into the lakefront area.
These routes are a good choice when the drive itself is part of the fun. Expect rolling terrain, wooded stretches, lake homes, coves, and occasional water views. The Community Bridge also connects the Sunrise Beach side of the Lake with the Lake Ozark and Osage Beach area, making it easier to build a loop instead of retracing your route.
Tips for Planning a Scenic Drive
Before heading out, keep a few simple tips in mind:
- Check the weather and current road conditions.
- Fill up the gas tank before exploring smaller lake roads.
- Give yourself extra time for overlooks, photos, meals, and attractions.
- Use extra caution on winding roads and after dark.
- Consider a spring or fall drive for comfortable temperatures and seasonal scenery.
- If you are towing a boat, plan your route ahead of time and stick to roads that work well for your trailer.
Summer weekends and holidays can bring heavier traffic around the Lake, so an earlier start can make the drive more relaxing.
Plan Your Visit
Ready to dive into your Lake of the Ozarks getaway? Browse our complete collection of vacation rentals and choose the perfect homebase for your next trip.
Final Thoughts
The best scenic drives near Lake of the Ozarks let you experience much more than the main tourist areas. Highway 5 offers classic Ozark scenery and memorable lake crossings, Highway 54 connects several major Lake communities, Ha Ha Tonka adds natural and historic attractions, and the Sunrise Beach area is ideal for exploring winding roads near the water.
Make a drive part of your next Lake getaway, then return to a comfortable vacation rental where you can relax and plan the next day’s adventures.
Book Your Lake of the Ozarks Vacation Rental with Your Lake Vacation
Your Lake Vacation offers a variety of Lake of the Ozarks vacation homes and condos for families, couples, and groups. Many properties make it easy to enjoy the reason so many people come here in the first place—the Lake itself.
Book your stay with Your Lake Vacation and enjoy personalized service from a local team that knows the area. From finding a rental that works for your group to planning days of boating, golfing, sightseeing, and scenic drives, we’re here to help make your Lake of the Ozarks trip easier from start to finish.
