Lake of the Ozarks
Adopt the Shoreline
Since 1991, groups have provided more than 13,000 volunteers who have removed more than five million pounds of trash from the Lake's shoreline.
Learn MoreDiscover a Variety of Ways to Enjoy the Lake
The overlook includes kiosks with information about the Lake and dam, including a view of the Osage River valley from that location before the dam was built. One of the original turbines used to power the dam’s electric generators is also on display.
At Bagnell Dam itself, Ameren Missouri has developed a fish and bird observation area in partnership with the Missouri Department of Conservation. This area is located along a walkway leading to the Osage Energy Center's main office on the downstream side of Bagnell Dam. The entrance to Upper Power Plant Road is located about one-half mile north of Bagnell Dam on Business Route 54.
Perched on a wooded hillside north of Bagnell Dam, historic Willmore Lodge houses one of the best free attractions at the Lake of the Ozarks. The lodge includes an interactive museum on the Lake explaining its history and the area's natural resources. The log structure was built in 1930 as an administration building and lodge to house dignitaries visiting the Bagnell Dam construction project and the Osage Energy Center. Ameren Missouri reacquired the property and today leases it to the Lake Area Chamber of Commerce for use as a visitor center and chamber offices.
The entrance to Willmore Lodge is located on Business Route 54, about one-half mile north of Bagnell Dam, across from the entrance to Upper Power Plant Road. For more information on operating hours, check the Lake Area Chamber of Commerce's Facebook page or call 573.964.1008.
Safety Information
Ameren never compromises on safety. That’s why we take steps with our equipment, facilities and communications processes to protect the public and our co-workers. Facility personnel conduct daily inspections of the Dam to ensure all equipment is functioning properly and the structure remains sound. A specialized team of engineers do quarterly inspections and the Dam receives an annual inspection by the federal government.
Warning Siren
A warning system is in place to alert residents and visitors of emergencies at Bagnell Dam. Three sirens along the lower Osage River cover the first 5 river miles below Bagnell Dam. The alert will be a distinct tone followed by voice instructions. These sirens signal to area residents and visitors that they should move to higher ground immediately.
If you are downstream of Bagnell Dam and hear the sirens, seek higher ground immediately. Sirens are tested at noon on the first Wednesday of the month and state “this is a test.”
Additionally, emergency response agencies and local media will be notified in the event of an emergency, as boaters on the Lake are unlikely to hear the sirens. A Dam failure would increase water current and the amount of drift debris on the Lake. Swimmers and boaters near the Dam who notice these conditions should move to shore immediately.
