CRICKET CREEK

At Cricket Creek, a marina extends out over the bright blue waters on one end, and a large, sandy swimming beach is offered on the other, providing convenient access to the cool waters of Table Rock Lake from every angle. Table Rock Lake is a beautiful body of water surrounded by a forest of oak and hickory trees. Its waters wind down through the valleys and hollows of the Ozark Mountains, from Branson, Missouri to Eureka Springs, Arkansas. More than five million visitors per year take advantage of this recreational oasis. Originally built for flood control, the Table Rock Dam has created a lake that boasts 779 miles of shoreline for the public to enjoy.

Recreation: A full-service public marina located at the campground offers everything from boat rentals to tubes, water skis and wakeboard rentals. Fisherman can purchase a license here and fuel up for a day on the water. While the lake boasts an abundance of crappie, catfish, and bluegill, Table Rock is most famous for bass, and is acclaimed as one of the best bass fishing lakes in this hemisphere. Scuba diving is also a popular activity in the crystal clear lake waters, which offer high visibility and plenty of underwater excitement, including the remnants of a submerged town and grove of old oak trees. For an indoor activity, visitors may enjoy a trip to the Dewey Short Visitors Center where 3 educational films are offered on topics including, the history of the dam, the story of Lewis and Clark and the history of eagles and their endangerment in the state of Missouri.

Nearby: The Dewey Short Visitors Center is located at the south end of Table Rock Dam, with educational exhibits on the natural history of the area, a courtesy dock and scenic hikes that leave from the center. Cricket Creek Campground is about 12 miles from Branson, Missouri, which offers grocery stores, gas and additional tourist attractions.