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Harry S Truman State Park: A Lakeside Escape

Discover outdoor adventures at Harry S Truman State Park: boating, fishing, hiking, and camping on the scenic shores of Truman Lake.

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Nestled on a peninsula in west-central Missouri, Harry S Truman State Park offers a diverse range of outdoor activities. With the expansive Truman Lake as its centerpiece, visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, swimming, and hiking amidst the scenic Ozark landscape.

A brief summary to Harry S Truman State Park

Local tips

  • Book campsites in advance, especially during peak season, as the campgrounds are fully reservable.
  • Bring your own potable water during the off-season, as the dump station, shower house, and water are turned off.
  • Pack beach toys for the swimming beaches, open from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
  • Consider bringing a metal detector to search for treasures, but remember to register for a free permit and avoid digging holes.
  • Check the Missouri Department of Conservation's fishing report for Truman Lake to improve your chances of a successful catch.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    To reach Harry S Truman State Park from Warsaw, Missouri, head west on MO-7 for approximately 9 miles. Then, turn right onto Route UU and continue for 3 miles until you reach the park entrance. Parking is available at various locations throughout the park, including near the campgrounds, beaches, and trailheads. Parking is free.

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Discover more about Harry S Truman State Park

Harry S Truman State Park, a 1,440-acre haven in Benton County, Missouri, beckons with its clear waters, dramatic bluffs, and vibrant seasonal colors. Opened in 1983, the park occupies a peninsula jutting into the 55,600-acre Truman Lake, a reservoir on the Osage River. Originally created for flood control, the lake now provides ample recreational opportunities. The park's landscape showcases the beauty of the western Ozarks, with open oak woodlands, natural grasslands, and rocky bluffs. Hiking trails wind through these diverse habitats, offering glimpses of wildflowers and abundant wildlife, including deer, wild turkey, coyote, and bald eagles. The Bluff Ridge Trail, divided into two sections, explores forests and glades, with scenic views of the lake. The Western Wallflower Glade Trail showcases a preserved pre-settlement glade and savanna habitat. Water enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy on Truman Lake. The park offers a marina, boat ramps, and swimming beaches. Anglers can cast their lines for crappie, black bass, catfish, and white bass. Boating, water skiing, and other water sports are also popular. For those who prefer to stay on land, picnic areas and campgrounds dot the park, providing a relaxing setting for enjoying the natural surroundings. History buffs can visit the nearby Harry S Truman Dam and Reservoir Visitor Center, which offers exhibits on the area's history, wildlife, and archeology. The park's location also provides a glimpse into the past, showcasing what the western Ozarks looked like when European settlers first arrived.

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