Table Rock Lake Things to Do: 12 Ways to Have Fun

Whether you’re a chill-seeker or a thrill-seeker, Table Rock Lake has something fun and exciting for everyone! From extreme watersports to lounging by the beach, take your pick of sun-soaked fun!

With the abundance of things to do in and around Table Rock Lake, it’s no wonder why families choose to vacation at Table Rock Lake each year. It is, after all, frequently named a top family-friendly lake in the U.S.

So what exactly are the types of experiences that families should expect on a Table Rock Lake vacation? Follow along as we share the top Table Rock Lake activities for all ages!

12 Table Rock Lake Things to Do for Non-Stop Fun

1. Have Fun at Silver Dollar City

Strap in, hold on tight, and prepare for the most thrilling rides at Silver Dollar City.

Although Table Rock Lake is known for its beautiful lake and surrounding nature, Silver Dollar City remains the area’s top attraction for decades. Whether you google “things to do near Table Rock Lake” or “things to do around Table Rock Lake,” this family-friendly themed park for all seasons always comes out on top.

There are a lot of fantastic rides for kids, as well as a world-class roller coaster that extreme thrill-seekers will enjoy. So whether you’re eight or in your 40’s, you will find something to love about Silver Dollar City.

Families riding Powder Keg Roller Coaster at Silver Dollar City - Branson, Missouri, USA2. Swim at the Beach

Did you know Table Rock Lake boasts nearly 800 miles of shoreline? As such, the lake has several beaches for you to take advantage of. For the best things to do at Table Rock Lake, bring your swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, and cooler, and splash the day away at these Table Rock Lake beaches and public swimming areas:

Cape Fair
Moonshine Beach
Baxter
Aunts Creek
Campbell Point

Additionally, if you’re staying at a lakeside resort, such as Chateau on the Lake Resort, your accommodations may offer a private swimming area for guests.

Lake and Sand at Moonshine Beach - Branson, Missouri, USA
photo credit: Greg Howard via Facebook

3. Hop Aboard the Showboat Branson Belle

Looking for unique Table Rock Lake things to do? One of Table Rock Lake’s greatest treasures is the Showboat Branson Belle. This magnificent vessel is themed after steamboats from the 1800s and guides guests on a 2-hour cruise around Table Rock Lake. In addition to stunning lake views, the boat also offers an extraordinary show and three-course meal.

When you need a break from swimming or lounging lakeside, a cruise on the Showboat Branson Belle is perfect. The level of entertainment and cuisine is unrivaled! However, be sure to bring a jacket as the boat cruises rain or shine, and the air conditioning inside can be a bit chilly.

branson belle on the Table Rock lake at sunset in Branson, Missouri, USA
Showboat Branson Belle

4. Cast Your Line and Go Fishing

Here’s one of the Table Rock Lake water activities that will keep you dry. Fans of fishing love Table Rock Lake for the myriad of fish species, from bass to catfish. If you’re into competitive fishing, participate in one of the many tournaments scheduled all year long.

Visitors can also charter a private fishing tour with a guide. Those without a fishing boat can rent one from Long Creek Marina for added convenience.

5. Explore the Lake by Boat

If you’re in a lake as calm and beautiful as Table Rock, you’ll want to go boating! For this reason, it’s one of the most popular Table Rock Lake activities in Branson MO.

Rent a boat and head out on the water for fun in the sun! There are several marinas located around Table Rock Lake, including:

Table Rock State Park Marina
Rock Lane Marina
Indian Point Boat Dock
Cape Fair Boat Dock & Marina
Campbell Point Boat Dock
Baxter Boat Dock

For your convenience, the marinas also sell snacks (munch away!), sunscreen, towels, and other boating necessities. These things to do on Table Rock Lake ensure that you’ll have a great day out on the lake.

man water skiing on Table Rock Lake with green trees in background in Branson, Missouri, USA
photo credit: Pixabay

6. Explore Shepherd of the Hills

Name a fun outdoor activity; chances are you’ll find it in the Shepherd of the Hills!

Spending an entire day with the family in this outdoor adventure is one of the top things to do at Table Rock Lake Branson MO. There’s the Copperhead Mountain Coaster, which takes visitors on a riveting ride through the beautiful Ozark Mountains.

For arguably one of the best sightseeing attractions, head to the Shepherd of the Hills Inspiration Tower. From up the colossal 230-foot structure, you’ll see panoramic views of the area as far as 90 miles away on clear days.

smiling woman in striped red and white shirt with arms extended riding down zipline surrounded by greenery on sunny day at Shepherd of the Hills Vigilante ZipRider in Branson, Missouri, USA
photo credit: The Shepherd of the Hills via Facebook

7. Check Out the Talking Rocks Cavern

Talking Rocks Cavern is more than just a hole in the ground. As one of the top Table Rock activities, exploring the beautiful and spacious cave is a fun learning adventure for every age and agility.

While viewing the beauty of Missouri underground, this experience is also an opportunity to learn more about how the cave was discovered and all the developments it has gone through in recent years.

Aside from cave exploration, miniature golf, picnic areas, and a large outdoor checkerboard are also available, among other fantastic family-friendly amenities and activities at the Talking Rocks Cavern.

8. Go Camping

Wondering what to do on Table Rock Lake? When searching for outdoor Table Rock Lake activities, immerse yourself in the Ozarks by camping on the waterfront. There’s nothing more peaceful than setting up a tent next to a glistening lake.

Guests can choose from several campgrounds in and around Table Rock Lake. The best campgrounds include Table Rock State Park, the Old Highway 86 Campground, Baxter Campground Table Rock Lake, and Campbell Point Campground.

These areas offer basic, electric, and/or sewer/electric/water campsites for various types of camping. However, advance reservations are required, and camping fees are applied.

father and son sitting at campfire together in the woods roasting marshmellows

9. Try Scuba Diving

Have you always wanted to try scuba diving? At Table Rock Lake, you can check off a bucket list item and learn to scuba dive. Several dive shops and instructors are located in the area, which makes scuba diving one of the most sought-after Table Rock Lake water sports.

While exploring the world under the lake’s surface, you’ll discover a variety of freshwater fish, natural formations, and more. If interested, visit White River Dive Company or the State Park Marina to schedule your diving lesson! Do know that most dive shops have specific height, weight, age, and physical restrictions in place for the safety of divers and instructors alike.

10. Visit the Dewey Short Visitor Center

Interested in learning more about Table Rock Lake? The Dewey Short Visitor Center opened in 2012 and has since become a top destination for tourists. In other words, this is one of the top Table Rock things to do.

Inside, you’ll find everything from awe-inspiring murals to captivating exhibits displaying Native American artifacts and detailing the history of the Ozarks. And if it’s a hot day and you need to beat the heat, this is the perfect place to do so!

exterior view of the Dewey Short Visitor Center in Branson, Missouri, USA11. Hit the Trails

Of all the outdoor Table Rock Lake activities and things to do at Table Rock, hiking is on top of the list for many. There’s nothing better than stretching your legs and immersing yourself in the great outdoors.

 

The Table Rock Lakeshore Trail is the most popular trail, with approximately 2.25 miles of paved pathways, making it a fantastic option for families. There are also biking trails for those who prefer to exercise their quads, glutes, hamstrings, and calves.

Dogwood Canyon and Top of the Rock are also amazing places to appreciate nature while walking! Both have world-class recreation and attractions that you can try out after a peaceful hike.

pathway surrounded by greenery with view of lake and sun shining at Table Rock Lakeshore Trail in Branson, Missouri, USA
photo credit: Sonia Harvey via Facebook

12. Go Kayaking or Canoeing

A list of Branson Lake activities will not be complete without this super fun outdoor activity. While some might prefer water skiing, a more relaxing option is to go on an adventure across the lake via kayak or canoe.

At Kayak Branson, you can rent a kayak, canoe, or stand-up paddleboard for a guided tour of the lake or a personal excursion. These water activities are perfect for any age, from children to adults. You don’t need prior kayaking or canoeing experience either. With a low learning curve and on-site instruction, your group will be ready to traverse the lake in no time.

Explore More Attractions in Branson

There is no shortage of fun and exciting activities in Branson!

As the crown jewel of natural beauty in Branson, there are many opportunities to commune with nature while doing the things you love. Swim, hike, camp, and so much more. And if you need a place to stay during your Table Rock Lake vacation, check out some of the best Branson hotels on Tripster!

Have You Been To This Ozarks Lake?

What is your favorite activity when near the water? Leave us a comment below!


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Written by Nicole King

There are only two things that make Nicole really happy–books and travel! When her head’s not buried in a book, she’s most likely...


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