Lake with Pine Trees

Lake Lotawana Vacation Rentals

Lake Lotawana

Why Rent On Lake Lotawana

Lake Lotawana, a serene 600-acre lake in Missouri, offers a diverse array of experiences tailored for adventure travelers, wellness seekers, and family-friendly explorers. With its 27 miles of shoreline, this lake is a haven for watersports enthusiasts, who can indulge in boating, kayaking, and fishing. For those seeking outdoor adventures, the Rock Island Trail and the Rock Island Spur provide extensive cycling routes, connecting to the Katy Trail and offering scenic rides through Jackson County.

Nature lovers can explore the Augie Trail Loop, a challenging yet rewarding hiking path with multiple stream crossings. The area is also rich in local history, though specific historical landmarks are less prominent here compared to other Missouri destinations.

For a culinary treat, Marina 27 Steak & Seafood is the only public restaurant on the lake, offering fine dining with a lakeside view. Families can enjoy picnics and leisurely walks in the scenic parks surrounding the lake, while wellness seekers can unwind at serene lakeside spots. Whether you’re looking for action-packed adventures or tranquil retreats, Lake Lotawana provides a unique blend of natural beauty and recreational activities.

Best time to go
Embrace the splendor of early autumn at Lake Lotawana, when vibrant foliage mirrors the shimmering waters. October offers idyllic days for fishing and kayaking, fewer crowds, and the annual Lake Lotawana Fall Festival—an exquisite weekend filled with local culture, savoring seasonal flavors, and captivating sunset vistas.
Water Quality
Lake Lotawana's waters are a deep blue, reflecting the clear sky above, with water clarity that is ultra-clear, allowing for sparkling reflections of the surrounding landscape.
Surface area (mi)
1.58
Max depth (ft)
50
Elevation (ft)
895.67
Shoreline length (mi)
27

Popular activities

  • Boating
  • Swimming
  • Fishing
  • Bay Fishing
  • Kayaking
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Nearby lakes

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to dive into what Lake Lotawana has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!

  • Yes, there are designated swimming areas in Lake Lotawana. Swimmers must stay within 75 feet of the shore, and if swimming from a watercraft, they must be behind a no-wake buoy in a cove within 75 feet of the watercraft.

  • Lake Lotawana is a popular destination because of its diverse recreational activities. It offers sailing, speed boating, pontoon boating, kayaking, and even ice boating, making it a versatile spot for water sports. The lake also has 27 miles of shoreline and is close to Kansas City, adding to its appeal.

  • For fishing in Lake Lotawana, Missouri, you can use pole and line, natural and scented baits like bait fish, crayfish, and worms, as well as soft plastic lures and artificial lures. These include synthetic eggs, synthetic worms, and other baits that do not contain ingredients to harm fish.

  • There is no public beach at Lake Lotawana specifically designated for swimming. Families might consider nearby options like Longview Lake Beach or Blue Springs Lake Beach, which are managed by Jackson County Parks + Rec and offer designated swimming areas, restrooms, and picnic shelters. These beaches are more suited for family activities.

  • Towns near Lake Lotawana include Blue Springs, Raytown, Raymore, Independence, Grandview, and Belton. These towns are all within 25 miles of Lake Lotawana and are part of the Kansas City metropolitan area. Lake Lotawana itself is located in Jackson County, Missouri, about 35 miles southeast of downtown Kansas City.