The lakes in the Branson area were the main attraction for visitors long before the Branson Boom happened a few years ago. The three big lakes, Table Rock Lake, Bull Shoals Lake and Lake Taneycomo, offer millions of visitors a water playground to fish, swim and boat. Water recreation is an endless season in the Branson area.

Any time of year, you can see boaters cruising the water, fishing or sightseeing. From the water is the best way to see the natural wonders of the lakes area, with its foliage, wild creatures and dramatic landscapes. With so much water reflecting the clear skies and lush countrysides, it's no wonder that the Branson area is acclaimed for its natural scenery.

Table Rock Lake offers skiing, swimming, sailing, scuba diving, parasailing and any other water sport you can dream up. Houseboats, pontoons, ski boats, fishing boats and personal watercraft are easily obtainable at local marinas, as is all the equipment to safely enjoy your favorite water activity.

Bull Shoals offers much the same recreational opportunity as Table Rock Lake, only a few miles away. It is less densely developed than the Table Rock and Taneycomo areas; however, comfortable resorts are available along its shorelines and like Table Rock, luxury houseboats allow families to enjoy the water day and night.

Shoreline activities are popular, too, and all three lakes offer camping and picnicking facilities. Table Rock, Taneycomo and Bull Shoals lakes are easy to enjoy without ever getting your feet wet. Take a stroll along the waterfront and watch the fish leap only a few yards away. Count the many types of wild creatures and birds you will see along the lakeshore. Collect driftwood, study the wild flowers or just sit and admire one of those sunsets that really do look like postcards from the Ozarks.

For more information about Table Rock Lake, stop by the Table Rock Lake Visitors Center, open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. The Visitors Center features nature exhibit rooms, an educational bookstore and free interpretive films about the Table Rock Dam. Tours of the Powerhouse and the Dam are offered 9-11 a.m. and 1-4 p.m. daily. Cost is $2 per person (children under five are free). For more information, call (417) 334-4101.