LAKE OZARKS OFFERS WIDE RANGE

Inexpensive vacations possible

Offering a complete range of vacation fun for everyone, the Lake of the Ozarks is particularly suited to family vacation. The prices are right.

With just a little bit of planning, hotel or motel accommodation for the average family can be made to fit comfortably into a modest budget.

"It all depends on a family's choice of vacation amusements. They can spend as little or as much as they care to on the host of resorts, water sports, boating, excursions, shows and other activities offered the active vacationer,  explained Thomas Schultz, director of the Lake of the Ozarks Association.

Schultz estimates average daily accommodation rates in peak season (during June, July and August) are from $10 to $12 a day for two persons, $13 for three persons and $16 for four persons.

That would mean a family of four could spend a week at the average Jake resort motel for about $112.

But these rates are significantly discounted if a family wishes to come early or late, rather than at peak season, Schultz noted. Taking a vacation in April, May, September or October can be every bit as enjoyable as in the summer months, while as much as 25 per cent less expensive.

Many resorts include cabin-type accommodations, complete with kitchenette. Most resorts are on or directly adjacent to the lake, and include pool, fishing dock and boat rentals.

An inboard runabout boat used for waterskiing rents for about $8 to $12 an hour at many lake resorts.

Families also may be interested in a new form of living accommodation offered at several areas throughout the Ozarks. House boating is big this year, according to Schultz, who said a boat for six to eight persons rents for about $60 to $70 a day.

"It's a floating resort - excellent for fishing and just cruising down the lake," Schultz noted.

He said-the attractions in the lake area have kept pace each year with the interests of those who visit. Six golf courses, six caves to tour, and scores of souvenir and gift shops are there to enjoy.

Antique shops, miniature golf, music halls and other entertainment provide plenty of diversion after a day of fishing, swimming, hiking, and boating has come to an end.

The lake area is capable of accommodating 23,000 persons, Schultz notes, but he stressed it is time to begin making plans if a family will be vacationing in July or August. The early part of June is not as crowded since students are just getting out of school, he said.

For a vacation guide to make planning easier, contact the Lake of the Ozarks Assn., Lake Ozark, 65049.  The people there will help visitors choose the best of vacation plans.