Lake of the Ozarks is one of the largest man-made lakes in the United States. Located in central Missouri, it is a popular destination for swimming, fishing, boating, and other recreational activities. The lake spans a whopping 92 miles in length, making it one of the longest lakes in the country. But just how big is Lake of the Ozarks?
Surface Area of the Lake
Lake of the Ozarks has a surface area of 54,000 acres. In other words, it covers an area of roughly 84 square miles. The lake is divided into two sections: the Grand Glaize arm and the Niangua arm. Each arm is separated by a long and narrow stretch of land known as the Gravois Arm. The lake has an average depth of 30 feet and a maximum depth of 150 feet in some areas.
Number of Miles of Shores
The shoreline of the lake spans 1,150 miles, which is roughly the distance from St. Louis, Missouri to Denver, Colorado. This makes it one of the longest shorelines of any man-made lake in the world. The shoreline is made up of a mix of rocky bluffs and sandy beaches, which makes it a great spot for swimming and other leisure activities.
Number of Residential Properties
The lake is home to over 45,000 residential properties, which are mostly located along the lake's shoreline. These include single-family homes, condos, and vacation homes. The lake is also home to a number of marinas, resorts, and golf courses.
Number of Islands
The lake is home to more than two dozen islands. These islands range in size from small, undeveloped islands to large, developed islands that offer a variety of recreational activities. Some of the most popular islands include Ha Ha Tonka Island, Red Rock Island, and Miller's Island.
Length of the River
The lake is fed by the Osage River, which runs for around 662 miles. The Osage River is a tributary of the Missouri River, which flows for about 2,341 miles. The Osage River drains an area of nearly 20,000 square miles.
The Dam at Lake of the Ozarks
The lake was created when a dam was built in 1931. The dam is located at the southern end of the lake and is operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The dam is responsible for controlling the flow of water in and out of the lake. The dam is 1,280 feet long and stands 128 feet tall.
The Watershed at Lake of the Ozarks
Lake of the Ozarks is part of a larger watershed that covers an area of over 17,000 square miles. The watershed includes parts of Missouri, Arkansas, Illinois, and Oklahoma. This watershed is home to a variety of wildlife, including fish, amphibians, reptiles, and birds.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the surface area of Lake of the Ozarks?
Lake of the Ozarks has a surface area of 54,000 acres, or roughly 84 square miles.
How long is the shoreline of Lake of the Ozarks?
The shoreline of Lake of the Ozarks is 1,150 miles long, which is roughly the distance from St. Louis, Missouri to Denver, Colorado.
How many residential properties are located around Lake of the Ozarks?
There are over 45,000 residential properties located around Lake of the Ozarks.
How many islands are there in Lake of the Ozarks?
There are more than two dozen islands in Lake of the Ozarks.
How long is the Osage River?
The Osage River is 662 miles long.
When was the dam built at Lake of the Ozarks?
The dam at Lake of the Ozarks was built in 1931.
How big is the watershed at Lake of the Ozarks?
The watershed at Lake of the Ozarks covers an area of over 17,000 square miles.
How deep is Lake of the Ozarks?
The average depth of Lake of the Ozarks is 30 feet, with a maximum depth of 150 feet in some areas.
How long is the dam at Lake of the Ozarks?
The dam at Lake of the Ozarks is 1,280 feet long and stands 128 feet tall.
What is the source of the water for Lake of the Ozarks?
The water for Lake of the Ozarks is supplied by the Osage River, which is a tributary of the Missouri River.
What type of wildlife can be found in the watershed at Lake of the Ozarks?
The watershed at Lake of the Ozarks is home to a variety of wildlife, including fish, amphibians, reptiles, and birds.