Best Surfing Beaches in Missouri

Moonshine Beach, located on the shores of Table Rock Lake in Branson, Missouri, is a picturesque retreat offering a unique blend of relaxation and outdoor adventure. The beach is renowned for its large sandy shoreline, a rarity in the Ozarks, making it perfect for sunbathing and swimming. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as boating, fishing, and kayaking, while the surrounding area provides opportunities for hiking and exploring scenic viewpoints. The beach is well-equipped with amenities like restrooms, showers, picnic tables, and a boat ramp, making it an ideal spot for family outings. With its stunning natural beauty and accessible facilities, Moonshine Beach is a must-visit destination for those seeking a memorable experience in the Ozarks.
The beach's history is intertwined with the development of Table Rock Lake, which was created by the construction of the Table Rock Dam in 1959. This project aimed to enhance tourism, provide flood control, and generate hydroelectric power. Today, Table Rock Lake is a popular recreational spot, attracting millions of visitors annually.
Moonshine Beach is situated near several attractions, including the Dewey Short Visitor Center, which offers insights into the area's history and natural environment. The nearby Table Rock State Park provides additional opportunities for hiking and biking, with well-marked trails offering panoramic views of the lake and surrounding hills.

Camp Branch Beach is located on the east side of Smithville Lake within Camp Branch Park, offering a serene and natural setting for visitors. The beach is accessible both by vehicle and via the Bonebender Trail from Camp Branch Campground. It provides stunning views of the lake and is a popular spot for swimming and relaxation. The beach operates from May 1 to September 15, with facilities including showers, changing rooms, and restrooms. However, there are no lifeguards on duty, and pets, glass containers, and alcoholic beverages are prohibited.
The surrounding area offers additional attractions such as the Camp Branch Marina and Boat Launch, making it a comprehensive destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails and other recreational activities nearby.
The beach's proximity to Smithville Lake and its scenic surroundings make it an ideal spot for families and nature lovers alike.

Shady Beach Campground is located on the Elk River in Noel, Missouri, offering a lively atmosphere perfect for families and groups. It provides a variety of accommodations, including air-conditioned cabins, vacation home rentals, primitive tent sites, and RV sites with water and electric hookups. The campground features a 1/4 mile of beachfront for swimming and relaxation. Visitors can enjoy float trips on the nearby rivers and access an onsite camp store offering snacks, ice cream, and camping essentials. The social vibe is enhanced by activities like volleyball and campfires, making it a popular spot for summer memories.
The campground is known for its friendly community and is a great base for water activities. However, some campers have noted that the bathrooms could use improvement. Despite this, the spacious tent sites and wash stations provide ample space for campers to spread out.
Shady Beach Campground is a solid choice for anyone looking to enjoy the outdoors in Southwest Missouri's Ozarks.

Indian Creek Beach, located near Greenlawn, Missouri, is part of the larger Mark Twain Lake area. It offers a serene and natural setting with opportunities for swimming, picnicking, and boating. The beach is open to the public with a day-use pass and provides amenities like a large bathhouse, foot wash station, and volleyball facilities. The area is known for its beautiful shoreline and recreational activities, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors.

Mark Twain Lake itself is named after the famous author Mark Twain, who was born in nearby Florida, Missouri. The lake is a significant recreational and ecological site, offering boating, fishing, and hiking opportunities. The surrounding landscape provides a picturesque backdrop for outdoor activities, with rolling hills and scenic views.

The Indian Creek Recreation Area, where the beach is situated, offers additional attractions such as hiking trails and wildlife viewing opportunities. This combination of natural beauty and recreational facilities makes Indian Creek Beach a compelling destination for those seeking outdoor adventures in Missouri.

Little Platte Beach is a scenic destination located within Little Platte Park on the west side of Smithville Lake in Missouri. It offers a serene environment with sandy shores and clear waters, perfect for swimming and relaxation. The beach is accessible by vehicle via 180th Street and also by the Little Platte Trail, providing options for both drivers and hikers. Nearby attractions include Paradise Pointe Marina, Paradise Pointe Golf Complex, and historical sites like Woodhenge and Akers Cemetery. The beach is open from May 1 to September 15, operating from 8:30 AM to sunset, making it a popular spot for summer activities.

The beach area is well-maintained, with facilities such as showers, changing rooms, restrooms, and drinking fountains available for visitors. However, there are no lifeguards on duty, so visitors must be mindful of their safety while swimming. Pets, glass containers, and alcoholic beverages are prohibited to maintain a family-friendly environment.

The surrounding park offers additional recreational opportunities, including hiking trails and picnic areas, making it a great spot for families and nature lovers alike.