Party Cove at the Lake of the Ozarks

Party cove has been described as wild, rowdy, hedonistic, bacchanal and a floating frat party. No matter what words are used to explain the atmosphere of Party Cove, be assured, it's not a place for the kids. Party Cove is the place to be for visitors to the Lake of the Ozarks seeking an outrageous social gathering on the water. This is where drinking is a sport and bikini tops seem to be optional.

Party Cove isn't listed on any official area map. Tradition is that Party Cove began in the 1960s and has continued at various locations on the Lake of the Ozarks ever since. Currently the spot designated as Party Cove is actually named Anderson Hollow Cove. The site is within the boundaries of Lake of the Ozark State Park at the 4 Mile Marker of the Grand Glaize Arm of the lake. There is another cove with a similar name that has been mistaken as the spot.

Anderson Cove is not Party Cove. Anderson Hollow Cove is the right place. The major difference between them is the correct place does not have houses or private docks. The confusion has gotten to be prevalent enough that "no mooring" buoys are in place to keep boats from dropping anchor at the wrong place.

Anderson Hollow Cove is easily found by passing under the Grand Glaize Bridge, where US Highway 54 crosses the lake in Osage Beach. Then turn port side (that's left for the landlubbers) to Mile Marker 4. There usually are a large number of boats to follow to Party Cove, just join the armada. Take it slow, there is a speed limit posted.

The merrymaking occurs throughout the summer on weekends and holidays. Boats of every size and description arrive at the cove by noon. Anchors are dropped and the water craft are lashed together forming long lines parallel to the shoreline. Between the rows of boats is a channel lovingly called "the gauntlet" by the seasoned Party Cove'er. Travel through "the gauntlet" is risky. Water blasters send streams of liquid at passing vessels, water balloons drop like bombs and shouts of "show your boobs" rises over the music and motors.