Table Rock Lake
Reservoir Large reservoir in the Ozarks, popular recreation
A reservoir on the White River, Table Rock Lake is known for boating, bass fishing, lakeside cabins and swimming, with marinas and easy access to Branson’s entertainment and outdoor services on the Missouri shore.
Table Rock Lake is a reservoir on the White River in the Ozarks of southwestern Missouri and northwestern Arkansas, formed by Table Rock Dam. The impoundment is a major regional recreational lake created in the mid-20th century.
The lake provides extensive shoreline and water surface for boating, swimming, camping and angling and supports multiple marinas and campgrounds. It is a popular destination for anglers targeting bass and crappie and for boat-based recreation.
Table Rock Dam was constructed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and completed in 1958 to provide flood control, hydroelectricity and recreational opportunities. Since completion the reservoir has been managed for multiple uses including water-level regulation and public access.
The lake lies in the Ozark highlands and is commonly accessed from the Branson, Missouri, area and surrounding communities; much of the developed recreation infrastructure sits along the Missouri side of the reservoir.
- Dam completion and purpose: Completed in 1958 by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers; built for flood control, hydroelectric power and recreational use.
- Recreational fishing: Widely used for boating and sport fishing, with common game species including largemouth and smallmouth bass and crappie.
What to See #
- Table Rock Dam: The concrete-arch Table Rock Dam impounds the White River to form the reservoir; construction was completed in 1958 and the structure provides flood control, power generation and recreation.
- Table Rock area recreation facilities: A Missouri state-managed recreation area on the lake's shoreline offering marinas, boat ramps and campgrounds for visitors to access the reservoir.
How to Get to Table Rock Lake #
Table Rock Lake is accessible from Branson, Missouri (southwest) and from points in northwest Arkansas. Major access points include Table Rock State Park and multiple Corps of Engineers-managed boat ramps. Drive via US-65 and local roads; Branson provides the nearest commercial services and airports.
Tips for Visiting Table Rock Lake #
- If boating, be mindful of fluctuating reservoirs and submerged hazards-local charts are important.
- Peak recreation season is summer; book accommodations and boat ramps in advance.
- Visit Table Rock State Park on clear days for the best Ozark vistas across the lake.
Best Time to Visit Table Rock Lake #
Summer for water recreation; spring and autumn for quieter outdoor activities and comfortable hiking weather.
Weather & Climate near Table Rock Lake #
Table Rock Lake's climate is classified as Humid Subtropical - Humid Subtropical climate with hot summers (peaking in July) and cold winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from -5°C to 33°C. Abundant rainfall (1090 mm/year), wettest in May.
January
January is the coolest month with highs of 8°C and lows of -5°C. Moderate rainfall (51 mm).
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February
February is cold with highs of 11°C and lows of -2°C. Moderate rainfall (61 mm).
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March
March is cold with highs of 15°C and lows of 2°C. Significant rainfall (101 mm).
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April
April is cool with highs of 21°C and lows of 6°C. Significant rainfall (103 mm).
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May
May is mild with highs of 25°C and lows of 12°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (117 mm).
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June
June is mild with highs of 30°C and lows of 16°C. Significant rainfall (114 mm).
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July
July is the warmest month with highs of 33°C and lows of 19°C. Regular rainfall (81 mm).
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August
August is warm with highs of 32°C and lows of 18°C. Regular rainfall (87 mm).
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September
September is mild with highs of 28°C and lows of 15°C. Significant rainfall (103 mm).
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October
October is cool with highs of 23°C and lows of 8°C. Regular rainfall (89 mm).
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November
November is cold with highs of 16°C and lows of 3°C. Regular rainfall (100 mm).
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December
December is cold with highs of 10°C and lows of -2°C. Regular rainfall (83 mm).