Shawnee Bend

SHAWNEE BEND

Part of Harry S. Truman Lake

Overview

Shawnee Bend Park sits on the shores of Harry S. Truman Lake in the hills of western Missouri.

Visitors enjoy fishing, hunting, swimming and boating.

Click here for the Harry S. Truman Lake virtual tour.

Facilities

This year-round day-use area offers two large group picnic shelters. Amenities include flush and pit toilets, playgrounds, swimming beach, boat ramp and drinking water.

Natural Features

Harry S Truman Reservoir lies among the rolling hills and rocky bluffs of the Ozark Plateau. Mature hardwoods of Oak and Hickory with cedar trees mixed in cover the area. 

Wildlife such as whitetail deer, turkey, hawks, ospreys, eagles, and many different water birds can be found in and around the park. 

An abundance of fish such as crappie, bass, walleye, paddlefish, blue and channel catfish can also be found in Harry S Truman Reservoir. Approximately 8,800 acres of standing timber were left in the lake to provide quality aquatic habitat. 

Recreation

Shawnee Bend is an excellent fishing location. Truman Lake is also a popular destination for tournament fishermen.



A playground and sandy beach make the area perfect for families.

Nearby Attractions

The 950 miles of shoreline around Truman Lake provide plentiful opportunities for fun in the outdoors. Many parks surround the lake, including Harry S. Truman State Park.

The Harry S. Truman Visitor Center sits atop Kaysinger Bluff and provides a spectacular view of the dam and reservoir. Exhibits provide information about the rich history of the Osage River Valley from pre-civilization to modern day. Waterfowl, bald eagles and turkey vultures are commonly seen from the observation deck.

Important Notices

  • Day-use fees are required if using the beach or boat ramp
  • Click here for more information about Truman Lake

  • Help stop the spread of the invasive zebra mussel by draining all water from equipment and discarding live bait before leaving the park
  • Don't Move Firewood: Protect your forests from tree-killing pests by buying your firewood locally and burning it on-site. Visit Dontmovefirewood.org for further information.

Notifications and Alerts

  • Campers, after 14 days camping on one campsite, must vacate the campground for a minimum of 24 hours. This includes all belongings.

    Campers must have a working mode of transportation available.

  • Even though camping is by reservation only, all campers are required to check in at the park booth to pick up vehicle hang tags. Booth hours are posted, so please check in as soon as possible after arrival.

Available Activities

  • Swimming Site - Swimming Site
  • Fishing - Fishing
  • Camping - Camping
  • Boating - Boating
  • Hunting - Hunting

Directions

From Highway 7, travel north on the Dam Access Road for 3 miles and follow signs into the park.

Contact Information

Phone: 660-438-7317

Golf Road
WARSAW, MO 65355

Rental Options

Learn more about gear rental options for your trip

Available Campsites

Photo Gallery