8 Best Locations for Family Photos at the Lake of the Ozarks

It’s that time again.

Time for updated family photos.

The beautiful Lake of the Ozarks makes the perfect backdrop for your wall art and fine art prints.

But, where to go to maximize the view?

In this guide, we will share some of our favorite spots as seasoned Lake of the Ozarks portrait photographers (in no particular order).

1. Ha Ha Tonka Bluffs

Ha Ha Tonka State Park has multiple different looks for photos, which is one reason why we often choose it for our on-location portrait sessions. For this reason, it get’s two spots on our list!

The first of these locations is the upper bluffs area near the Castle Parking Lot. This area has scenic overlooks, castle ruins, and a narrow boardwalk along the ridge. The sun sets out over the water, as an added plus for Golden Hour sessions.

2. Ha Ha Tonka Spring Parking Lot

The second location within Ha Ha Tonka is the Spring Parking Lot. This is a short drive from the Castle Parking Lot, and features a simple dock, waterfront grass, a gorgeous view of the bluffs under the castle, and a path that continues along to a natural spring.

For spry groups on nice weather days, there are many more beautiful backdrops along the Spring Trail itself. It is approximately a half mile walk from the parking lot to the Spring, and it is a mostly flat walk with a few steps and one rocky crevice to navigate.

3. Lodge of Four Seasons

The Lodge of Four Seasons is conveniently located and has a beautiful, well-maintained grassy lake overlook, along with a gravel path winding down towards the water. They also have a lovely Japanese Garden and other pretty landscaping, and even a small sand beach.

4. Willmore Lodge

Willmore Lodge offers cools lodgey backdrops along with a beautiful Lake of the Ozarks vista. Win!

5. Lake Ozark State Park

Lake of the Ozarks State Park has a rustic vibe. You can hike right down to the water, but you wouldn’t want to with a large group. You can also hike up to a field of boulders, we is just cool. There are woodsy lake views for a bigger group available near the parking lot.

I suggest coming in your hiking shoes to get the most out of Lake Ozark State Park.

6. Baxter’s Overlook

Baxter’s Overlook is one of the many stunningly beautiful views around the Lake of the Ozarks. It offers a wide, open vista, and most notable, it is extremely convenient and easy to get to.

You won’t have quite the variety of backdrops here that you would other places, but for something simple, it is great. After you’re done, stop by Baxter’s for one of the best meals the lake has to offer.

7. Lover’s Leap

Located in the Camdenton area, Lover’s Leap is an out-of-the-way overlook destination surrounded in local lore. It offers a breathtaking and includes cool-looking for posing people.

8. Your own dock or lakefront property

Very often we wind up taking photos right in the yard or dock of our clients’ lake homes or vacations rentals. It is incredibly convenient with larger groups or young children involved, and there’s nothing quite like home to make photos feel special.

If you live or rent on the Lake, don’t overlook your own backyard!

Oftentimes a good photographer can make a simple location shine.