Local Attractions: Things to Do in Laurie, Missouri
Nature, adventure, and relaxation at the Lake of the Ozarks
Laurie, Missouri sits at the heart of the west side of the Lake of the Ozarks region — offering a rich mix of outdoor adventure, scenic beauty, and relaxed lake-town vibe. Whether you’re drawn to forested trails, lake cruises, historic ruins or quiet nature spots, Laurie serves as a perfect base for exploring all that the Ozarks have to offer. From hiking and boating to local events and scenic views, this lakeside community gives you access to year-round activities that appeal to families, couples and new residents alike.
Outdoor Adventures & State Parks
Before you get to the everyday lake fun, here are some standout natural attractions near Laurie:
Ha Ha Tonka State Park – Just a short drive from Laurie, this 3,700+-acre park features trail systems past caves, sinkholes and a natural bridge, plus the dramatic stone castle ruins that overlook the Lake of the Ozarks.
Lake of the Ozarks State Park – Missouri’s largest state park, with 89 miles of shoreline, hiking, horseback riding, swimming beaches, and lake-launch access.
Scenic Boat & Water Activities – With Laurie’s proximity to the lake, you’ll find boat rentals, pontoon cruises, fishing, paddle-boarding and jet-ski excursions easily accessible.
Golf & Recreation – Try local public courses like Indian Rock Golf Club near Laurie, scenic drives through Ozark hills, or nature walks in lesser known nearby parks.
Nature Trails & Hidden Gems – Beyond the big parks, Laurie has access to quiet trails, shoreline drives, and nature spots that pair well with a relaxed lake-town lifestyle.
These diverse options mean that whether you want a high-energy day of boating and hiking or a calm afternoon in nature, Laurie and its surroundings deliver.
Family Fun, Local Culture & Hidden Attractions
Beyond the big state parks, here are additional things to do around Laurie that highlight the community side, events, and lesser-known activities:
Shopping & Local Finds – Visit boutiques and stores such as Lake Vibes (sunglasses, swimwear and lake-themed merchandise) in Laurie.
Hidden Caves & Caverns – Explore natural cave systems and formations within a short drive, connecting to the geological richness of the Ozarks.
Seasonal Community Events – Laurie hosts fairs, festivals and lake-region functions throughout the year that give both visitors and residents a strong sense of local lifestyle.
Scenic Drives & Observation Points – Take the back roads, capture lake views from blufftops, and enjoy photo-worthy moments around Laurie’s surroundings.
Waterfront Leisure – Even without high-adrenaline water sports, Laurie’s lake access means sunset cruises, lakeside dining, and family-friendly beaches are always within reach.
Whether you’re staying for a weekend or exploring as a prospective homeowner, these experiences help demonstrate how Laurie blends active lifestyle with peaceful living.
Plan Your Lake Escape
Laurie offers an exceptional balance of recreation and residence. Imagine starting your morning with a hike at Ha Ha Tonka’s bluff-top ruins, spending the afternoon seated on a pontoon on the Lake of the Ozarks, and ending your day at a local spot watching the sunset. With its lake-region access to nature and lifestyle, Laurie makes it possible to live well and play often.
For many, a visit like this sparks the idea of something more permanent. Communities developed by Heartstone Communities, such as nearby Cougar Ridge in Laurie, provide an attainable way to turn weekend adventures into everyday life. By offering thoughtfully planned, professionally managed housing close to the lake and local attractions, Heartstone helps make the Lake of the Ozarks lifestyle accessible year-round — not just for vacations.
