Covering the south-central and south-western divisions of the state, the Ozarks presents pretty panorama of rolling hills, winding rivers, large smooth lakes and thousands of caves. The area's reputation as an outdoor pastime area has caused a number of attractions to spring up. The best recognized is Branson, a little Ozark town that has ballooned into a visitor magnet because of its live-entertainment shows and other family-oriented activities.

But the best reason to observe the region is to revel in its natural splendor. The Ozark National Scenic Riverways is a widespread series of natural springs, streams and a river. The region is ideal for relaxing float trips as well as fishing, canoeing, boating, swimming - just about anything you can perform in the water.

The Lake of the Ozarks region has a number of excellent resorts and lodges in such communities as Bagnell, Osage Beach, Camdenton, Eldon, Greenview, Versailles, Hurricane Deck, Lake Ozark, Sunrise Beach, Laurie, and Linn Creek. Lake of the Ozarks State Park and close by Ha Ha Tonka State Park both propose the watery activity you would expect, as well as a few surprises. The Ozarks start 280 kilometers southwest of St. Louis.