Six Hours of Sun and Swim: The Hopper Bar Excursion at Lake of the Ozarks
Ages 21+ • 6 Hours
By midmorning the harbor smells like hot vinyl, sunscreen, and coffee gone cold in a paper cup. The Lake Hopper rocks gently against the dock at Bagnell Dam, a squat, no-frills shuttle that promises less yacht polish and more pool-party momentum. You step aboard with a towel, a grin, and the hum of a crowd that’s already planning where to plant itself—at the swim-up bars of Shady Gators and Coconuts—two icons of Lake of the Ozarks. Within minutes the shoreline unspools: coves, boat houses, and the odd three-deck party barge drifting like a small island. The water dares you. It shivers blue and invites you in.
Trail Wisdom
Arrive Early
Boarding begins at 10:30 a.m.; arrive early to check ID and secure a good spot on deck.
Bring A Towel & Suit
You’ll be swimming at both stops—quick-dry towel and swimsuit are musts.
Hydrate Between Drinks
Pack a reusable water bottle to sip between alcoholic drinks; the sun and lake days dehydrate fast.
Protect Your Phone
Use a waterproof pouch for phones and cards—water, sunscreen, and spray are constant.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Scout a quiet cove on the return leg for calmer swimming
- •Walk the Bagnell Dam Strip for vintage arcades and local shops
Wildlife
Great blue heron, Bald eagle
Conservation Note
The lake is a shared resource—avoid single-use plastics, pack out trash, and respect private shoreline properties when swimming or anchoring.
Bagnell Dam closed in 1931, creating Lake of the Ozarks and reshaping the region into a recreational hub.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Cooler crowds, Birdwatching, Off-season prices
Challenges: Cooler water, Variable weather
Spring brings milder crowds and good birdlife, but the water is colder and some on-shore venues may be quieter.
summer
Best for: Swim-up bars, Warm water, Lively atmosphere
Challenges: Large crowds, Higher prices
Peak season: long days, warm water, and the full party vibe—book early and expect crowded docks.
fall
Best for: Calmer water, Color along the shoreline
Challenges: Shorter days, Cooler evenings
Autumn quiets the scene; the lake is peaceful with crisp air—ideal for a more relaxed cruise.
winter
Best for: Off-season charm, Lower rates for private charters
Challenges: Cold temperatures, Limited bar operations
Most bar facilities scale back; the Hopper may run fewer excursions, but private charters remain an option.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Swimwear & Quick-Dry TowelEssential
For jumping in at swim-up bars and drying off between stops.
Reusable Water BottleEssential
Keeps you hydrated between purchased beverages and under the sun.
Reef-Safe SunscreenEssential
Protects skin without harming aquatic environments and works better for long lake days.
Waterproof Pouch
Protects phone, cash, and cards from spray and pool action.
Common Questions
Can I bring my own food and drinks on board?
No—outside food and beverages, including coolers, are not permitted on the Hopper.
Is there a restroom on the boat?
Yes—the Lake Hopper is fully equipped with a restroom.
Are tickets refundable?
Tickets for this excursion are non-refundable unless the operator cancels due to low bookings, in which case a full refund is issued.
Do I have to be 21 to board?
Yes—this excursion is restricted to guests 21 and older; IDs are checked at check-in.
Is the boat wheelchair accessible?
No—the vessel cannot accommodate wheelchairs due to its design and layout.
What payment forms are accepted for onboard drinks?
The bar accepts cash, credit, and debit cards for purchases on board.
What to Pack
Bathing suit (for swims); Quick-dry towel (dry off between stops); Reusable water bottle (stay hydrated); Waterproof pouch (protect phone/cards)
Did You Know
Lake of the Ozarks has roughly 1,150 miles of shoreline and was formed when Bagnell Dam was completed in 1931.
Quick Travel Tips
Book early for summer weekends; Bring photo ID for boarding; Pack reef-safe sunscreen; Expect spotty cell service in coves
Local Flavor
After the cruise, stroll the Bagnell Dam Strip for casual lakeside restaurants, souvenir shops, and ice cream; grab a meal at Coconuts for their blackened shrimp tacos or seek out a local brewery in Osage Beach for a post-cruise pint.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Columbia Regional (COU) ~60–75 miles; Driving distance from Osage Beach: ~15 minutes to Bagnell Dam; Cell service: Good near marinas, spotty in coves; Permits: None required for this excursion
Sustainability Note
Guests should pack out what they pack in—avoid single-use plastics and keep shorelines free of litter; support operators that use eco-friendly sunscreens and responsible waste practices.