Forget Florida, Retire To This Ozark Escape In Missouri With Lake Fun, Charming Destinations, And State Parks

The sunny state of Florida has long been recognized as the top destination for retirement, with its year-round warmth and lack of state income tax providing convincing incentives. However, the growing cost of living has many seniors looking elsewhere for a place to settle in their golden years. One state that has emerged as a surprising top contender is Missouri. While there are plenty of areas around the Show-Me State bursting with Midwestern charm, Camden County is a great option for those who want natural beauty, robust senior communities, and plenty of access to outdoor adventure.

Camden County sits in the Ozark region of South Central Missouri, and, according to Stacker, it is the state's second-best county to retire in. As a result, many retirees call this region home. Of the county's 44,000 residents, about 30% of residents are 65 or older, so there's no need to worry about finding community. Plus, Missouri have one of the lowest costs of living in the country and does not tax Social Security, so retirees can enjoy their new home without financial stress. The real draw to this area, however, is the abundance of natural beauty and outdoor activity. 

With two state parks and the iconic Lake of the Ozarks, seniors here can enjoy an active lifestyle surrounded by breathtaking natural scenes. However, it's important to note that the only hospital in the county is Lake Regional Health System in Osage Beach, so residents should keep this in mind as they decide which city in this region they want to call home. For retirees who desire serene waterfront living with easy access to the outdoors, Camden County should be high on your list.

Camden County is home to several cities and villages that allow retirees to enjoy a slower pace of life, each offering a different way to experience small-town Midwestern charm. The largest city is Osage Beach, a dreamy, underrated resort city that has plenty of shopping and entertainment options. Retirees here can enjoy quick access to the Osage Beach Outlet Marketplace, the county's go-to outlet mall for top brands, or catch a live performance at Main Street Music Hall, a Victorian theater that locals have enjoyed since 1987. For retirees who want a quieter, more rural atmosphere, there's the picturesque town of Camdenton. Along the tree-lined streets, you'll find plenty of local mom-and-pop shops and eateries that add to the town's charm. RJ's Family Restaurant, for example, has been a local, family-owned staple since 2009. For even more live entertainment, Camdenton houses the Ozarks Amphitheater, which is considered the "Best Live Music Venue in Missouri," per the state's tourism website. 

For those looking for more luxurious resort-style living, Sunrise Beach is a haven for retirees. Consider residing in Sunrise Beach's Timberlake Village, a sprawling residential community dedicated to seniors. Residents can take in stunning lake views and have a chance to spot some wildlife. Plus, it sits along a no-wake cove, so retirees can enjoy the stunning scenery without the noise of boats. If you don't want to stay there, the Sunrise Beach Community Center has a full calendar of events and classes, where new residents can meet other seniors in the community. While each city and village in Camden County has its own unique appeal, retirees will find themselves surrounded by a warm and welcoming community, no matter where they choose to settle down. 

While the towns are full of charm, the real draw to retiring in Camden County is the breathtaking Lake of the Ozarks. Covering an impressive 54,000 acres, the lake features 1,150 miles of shoreline. While the more adventurous retirees can enjoy boating and swimming, there are plenty of areas along the expansive shoreline for you to simply enjoy the lake's serene beauty. Fishing is also a popular activity, with anglers traveling from far and wide for a chance to catch bass, catfish, and crappie.

Camden County is home to two state parks. One is the Lake of the Ozarks State Park, Missouri's largest state park and a perfect Midwestern mountain paradise. The park includes 89 miles of the lake's shoreline, along which are two swimming beaches, as well as 12 trails of varying difficulty for walking, hiking, mountain biking, or horseback riding. For a more unique outdoor adventure, try visiting the Ozark Caverns to see some impressive geological features, like Angel Showers, where a steady curtain of water continuously falls from the rock ceiling in a stunning, strange fashion.

Farther southwest is Ha Ha Tonka State Park, one of Missouri's largest natural springs that houses an abandoned castle. Spanning about 3,600 acres near Camdenton, there are 16 miles of hiking trails to enjoy, but the park's most unique feature is the giant stone castle that sits high in the mountains and offers stunning panoramic views of the lake. Between the lake and these sprawling parks, there is no shortage of outdoor activity for retirees in Camden County.