Lake life
Truman Lake and Lake of the Ozarks
Benton County is home to the two largest lakes in Missouri. With a combined total shoreline longer than the coast of California and attracting millions of visitors each year, businesses in the tourism industry thrive.
Families, fishermen, hunters, nature lovers and outdoor adventure enthusiasts of all disciplines have made Benton County an outdoor recreation destination in Missouri.
Sportfishing, camping, hiking, water skiing, and mountain biking are just a few of the adventures available here. Learn more.
Trails & connectivity
Trails connect economic development and sustainability
The Butterfield Stage Experience Route through Missouri
A 254 mile scenic gravel road route travelling from the Frisco Highline Trail in Springfield, MO., to the state capital at Jefferson City. The route connects 9 counties , including Benton, and passes through the Main streets of Cole Camp, Lincoln, and Warsaw. It connects to the Katy Trail and the Rock Island Trail by way of the Lincoln connection, and provides adventure seekers and sightseers to take part in a historical stagecoach and mail route that operated from 1858-1861 out of San Francisco, California to Tipton, Missouri. Butterfield Overland Stagecoach History
This 12 mile trail system in Warsaw, Mo. traverses both sides of the Osage Arm of Lake of the Ozarks and links three parks, utilizing the re-built Joe Dice Swinging Bridge.. It is great for walking, running, cycling, and viewing local wildlife. No motor vehicles are allowed, and it is ADA accessible. This trail systems hub is Drake Harbor, which offers lake access, fishing, open grass fields, playgrounds, and views of the river. The City of Warsaw is continually expanding and improving this system.
Mountain Bike and Hiking
The Truman Lake Mountain Bike Park is built on City of Warsaw-leased U.S. Army Corps land on 460 acres, with 25 miles of single and double track trails. It is home to the Missouri State Championship Mountain Bike Race in June, and was a stop on the NICA (National Interscholastic Cycling Association) circuit in 2021. It attracts thousands of cyclists per year from all over Missouri and beyond.
Shawnee Bend Hiking and Biking Trail
A 2.6 mile loop taking in views of Truman Lake.
