For us, nothing beats summer in the Show-Me State, especially when spending a day at the clearest lake in Missouri or any other beautiful ones. What do you like best at Missouri lakes? Catching lightning bugs and then setting them free? Leisurely picnics at the park? Or long lazy days at the beach? If you can’t think of a better place to spend a summer day than the beach, you’re in luck. Missouri’s got quite a few of them. These five clean lakes in Missouri, for example, will help you stay cool all summer long.

1. Lake Lincoln – Troy
Lake Lincoln, Snow Hill Township, MO 63379, USA
Facebook/Cuivre River State Park
You won't lack for fun activities at Cuivre River State Park in Troy. One of the gems of the park, in fact, is Lake Lincoln, the perfect summertime destination and one of the cleanest lakes in Missouri. Soak up the sun as you sink your feet into the sand of the beach that leads into the crystal-clear water of the 55-acre lake. If you prefer spending time on the lake instead of in it, go kayaking or canoeing. Fishing is also allowed in the lake. Can you imagine a better way to spend a day?
2. Stockton Lake – Dadeville
State Highway A, State Hwy A, Missouri, USA
Facebook/Stockton State Park Marina
Nestled in Stockton State Park, Stockton Lake is an idyllic summertime destination, complete with a beach. However, the beach is gravel, so it's not quite as cozy as a sand beach. Bring along a beach chair if you really want to be comfortable. This clear and pristine lake in Missouri is perfect for floating or swimming, although there isn't a lifeguard. Once you're cooled off, consider renting a sailboat, a kayak, or a canoe for some fun on the water in one of the best Missouri lakes.

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3. Long Branch Lake – Macon
Long Branch State Park, 28615 Visitor Center Rd, Macon, MO 63552, USA
Missouri State Parks
Pack all of your beach gear - umbrella, towel, and chair - for a day on the sandy beach at Long Branch State Park. If you close your eyes, you might swear you've landed oceanside. Play a game or two of beach volleyball before jumping into the clearest lake in Missouri. You can also rent a kayak, a paddleboard, or a tube right at the park.
4. Table Rock Lake – Branson
Table Rock Lake, United States
Trip Advisor/Heidi
Float, tube, or swim in the crystal-clear waters of Table Rock Lake when you visit Moonshine Beach. You might want to bring a picnic along too, and spread out at one of the picnic tables overlooking the water. The beach also features a volleyball net and plenty of space to drop your beach chair or towel. When you get a bit too hot, you're just a few steps from the cool water of Table Rock Lake.
5. Wakonda Lake – La Grange
Wakonda State Park, 32836 State Pk Rd, La Grange, MO 63448, USA
Wakonda State Park
You'll have a ton of space to spread out at the beach at Wakonda State Park, which we think is one of the best all-around parks in MO. It spans 20,000 sandy square feet and is perfect for relaxing when you're not splashing in the crystal clear waters of this clear lake near me in Missouri. Bring a ball for a game of beach volleyball. The beach area also features restrooms and showers.

What are your picks for clear lakes near me in Missouri? Do you disagree with our choices for the clearest lake in Missouri? Tell us in the comments!

For more summertime fun, go kayaking on the Jack’s Fork River or the Current River with Windy Canoe Rentals in Eminence.

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Clearest Lakes in Missouri

Sarah M. | May 19, 2022

What are the most beautiful beaches in Missouri?

If you're looking to take a dip in one of the clearest lakes in Missouri *and* visit an amazing beach all at once, you'll definitely want to check out these beautiful beaches in Missouri.

  • Looking for the ultimate beach day? Sunbathe on the beach before cooling off in Table Rock Lake at the pristine Moonshine Beach in Branson. The beautiful beach also features picnic areas, restrooms, and a volleyball court. Bring food of your own, or stop by the vendors on hand during your visit!
  • Another beautiful beach in Missouri I love is Fugitive Beach, a lovely little spot with a sandy beach that is perfect for relaxing in the sunshine. Or join the kiddos on the slide that zips straight into the water!
  • Finally, for a Missouri beach day twofer, check out Lake of the Ozarks State Park, where you'll find two beautiful beaches. You can do it all here: relax on the sandy beach, have a picnic in the picnic area, and watch the kiddos play on the playground. The beaches also feature changing rooms and restrooms, too, making it one of the most family-friendly summer destinations in Missouri.

 

Are there any clear lakes near me in Missouri?

There are plenty of clear lakes near me in Missouri to choose from!

Boasting the clearest and most beautiful waters in Missouri, Lake Lincoln is an absolute slice of paradise. It's located in Cuivre River State Park, a place Missourians love exploring all year round. However, the masterpiece of the 6,400-acre state park is arguably Lake Lincoln, which spans 55 acres and often boasts crystal clear water, which is used for all sorts of amazing outdoor recreation. If you prefer spending time on the water, Lake Lincoln is perfect for kayaking and canoeing. You can even rent a kayak or a canoe right at the state park. You might also want to find a quiet space along the water for a bit of fishing. The lake is generally stocked with a variety of fish, including channel catfish, largemouth bass, and blue gill. A sandy beach, snuggling up to Lake Lincoln, is open annually from May through September. It's a fun way to soak up the sun and stay cool. (The water at the beach is the only place you are permitted to swim in the lake.) Lake Lincoln really is the ultimate destination for water recreation in the Show-Me State!

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