Lake of the Ozarks

With more shoreline than the coast of California, the Lake of the Ozarks in mid-central Missouri is a popular tourist destination for land-locked Midwesterners. For decades, it's provided financial opportunities for locals and outside interests alike — but at what cost? The story of how this man-made body of water came to be involves corruption, jail time, communities torn apart, and displaced families.

The Osage Beach Board of Aldermen has approved a redevelopment plan for the lakefront project near the Grand Glaize Bridge. Plans for the 25-acre property include restaurants, a Ferris wheel, a waterpark with a retractable roof and a 400-room Marriott hotel.

The Missouri Department of Conservation reports an invasive species of jellyfish from China can be found in Missouri’s lakes, reservoirs, and other freshwater habitats.

Missouri’s Ozark Mountains are known for their lush wilderness and popular tourist destinations. But what about the food? Like much of Ozark culture, the cuisine remains deeply misunderstood and shrouded in stereotypes. From deep in the forest to upscale restaurants, these food lovers are preserving the Ozarks' past and charting its future.

The Miller County gambling complex would cost $60 million, but first it requires a state-tribal compact and federal approval.

Thousands of motorcyclists are headed to Lake of the Ozarks this weekend for the 14th annual Bikefest. Public health officials warn the rally could become a “virus superspreader” event.

A sociologist explores the considerations behind why large of groups of revelers would choose to gather during the Memorial Day weekend without social distancing.

A sociological perspective on large gatherings over Memorial Day weekend at the Lake of the Ozarks and elsewhere, and the pandemic's impact on summer sports for children and student athletes.

If you've listened to any of our previous conversations with the Food Critics, you know that there isn't a shortage of top-notch food options in the…

The Lake of the Ozarks is one of Missouri's most popular weekend getaways, which is what inspired Dan William Peek and Kent Van Landuyt to publish A…

Segment 1: A team of linguists discover a new accent in southwest Kansas. Liberal, Kansas, and other nearby communities are developing a distinct accent.…

Who else is watching "Ozark"?The Netflix show set in Missouri provoked lively conversation on a recent edition of KCUR’s Central Standard, where host Gina…