Memorial Day Weekend at Table Rock Lake is one of those things you just have to experience at least once. The water is clear and cool, the coves are full of families anchored up and floating, and there’s a certain energy in the air that feels like summer has officially arrived. If you’re planning to head out this weekend — whether it’s your first time or your hundredth — here’s everything you need to know to make the most of it.
Getting a Boat on the Water
Renting a boat at Table Rock is easier than most people expect, and it’s more accessible price-wise than you’d think, especially when you split it across a group.
A basic breakdown of what to expect:
- Pontoon boats (great for families, easy to handle): roughly $300–$400 for a half day, $500–$750 for a full day depending on size and horsepower
- Tritoons and double-deck slide boats: priced a bit higher, but they’re worth it if you have kids
- Fishing boats: typically start around $175–$300 per day
A few places worth booking with:
- State Park Marina — one of the most popular spots on the lake, located right by Table Rock Dam in Branson. They have a big fleet, experienced staff, and rent everything from pontoons to ski boats. Reserve online for 6-hour, 8-hour, or all-day rentals. Note: you must be 21 to rent, and prior boating experience is required.
- Campbell Point Marina — a solid, well-reviewed option with tritoon rentals starting around $429 for 4 hours and $649 for a full day. They have clear policies and a straightforward booking process.
- Cape Fair Marina — located on the James River Arm of the lake, which means way less traffic than the Indian Point area. Tubes, skis, and boards can be added on for an extra $30.
A few things to know before you go: if you were born after January 1, 1984, Missouri requires a valid boating safety ID card. You can get a one-time temporary Missouri Boating Safety Permit online before your trip — do this in advance so you’re not scrambling at the ramp.
Beyond Boating
Not everyone in your group needs to be on a boat to have a great time at the lake. Kayaks, paddleboards, and towable tubes are available at most marinas and through local rental companies — and honestly, for younger kids or anyone who wants to explore at their own pace, these are sometimes even more fun.
Table Rock Lake Toys is a locally-owned rental company based in Kimberling City that delivers directly to wherever you’re staying — kayaks, paddleboards, towable tubes, and even lily pads. No hauling anything yourself. Perfect for a morning on the water before the boat crowd picks up.
State Park Marina also rents canoes and kayaks (solo and tandem) right from the dock — great if you’re already launching from there and want to grab a few extras for the day.
Kayak Branson offers guided and self-directed float trips on Table Rock Lake and Lake Taneycomo, with shuttle service included. A good option if you want something a little more structured.
Avoid the Rush — When to Launch Your Boat
This is the part nobody talks about enough, and it makes or breaks the whole day. We asked Kiley about timing at Table Rock over Memorial Day Weekend, and here’s the real breakdown:
Friday: Try to launch by 9–10 AM if you can. Crowds build fast as people arrive for the long weekend. Afternoon launches can mean 30–45 minute waits at the busiest ramps.
Saturday and Sunday are the peak days. If you’re not in the water by 7:30 AM, expect a line — especially at State Park Marina and Indian Point, which are the two most popular ramps. Afternoon retrieval (4–6 PM) is just as busy, so plan around it.
Monday (Memorial Day itself) is actually slightly easier in the morning, since some people are already packing up and leaving. Still aim for a 7–8 AM launch if you can. By mid-afternoon, retrieval is usually much smoother.
Local Tip: Lesser-Known Ramps to Skip the Rush
If you want to avoid the chaos at State Park Marina and Indian Point entirely, try one of these instead:
- Kings River Marina in Shell Knob — further out, but significantly less crowded
- Cape Fair Marina — on the James River Arm, way less traffic than the Indian Point area
- Hideaway Marina in Galena — a local favorite for avoiding the holiday chaos
Where to Eat on the Water
Half the fun of a lake day is the food — and Table Rock has some great options, especially if you want to eat without ever leaving the water.
- Rock Island Grill at Rock Lane Resort — completely remodeled in 2024 and 2025, with food, drinks, and lake views. A great spot for lunch or dinner after a long day on the water. Rock Lane Resort
- Sharky’s Pizza — fresh made-to-order pizza delivered directly to your boat. Carry-out only, open Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day. This one is genuinely worth planning around. Branson Lake Lodge Dining
- Bridges Coffee & Espresso Bar at State Park Marina — dock dining with pizza, hot subs, wings, salads, and sweets, with courtesy parking available in open slips Memorial Day through Labor Day. Branson Lake Lodge Dining
- Indian Point Floating Café — the original floating café on Table Rock Lake, built in 1960. Sandwiches, salads, seafood, and more — and the history alone makes it worth a stop.
Where to Stay
Airbnb Options:
There’s no shortage of great places to stay around the lake. Two that stand out for families:
- The Lake House at Kimberling Point — a lakefront home on a point with 180-degree lake views. Lots of room for a larger group, right on the water.
- High Cliff Cabin + Private Hot Tub — a 4-bedroom, 4-bath lakefront home in Kimberling City with breathtaking views and a private hot tub. A good pick for a group that wants a little more space and comfort.
Browse the full range of Table Rock Lake Airbnbs here.
For Something Completely Different — Houseboats:
If you really want to lean into the lake experience, Five Star Houseboat Vacations is worth looking into. Family-owned and operated since 2010, they offer luxury houseboats that sleep 10–16 people, with amenities like waterslides, wet bars, outdoor TVs, full kitchens, and upper deck seating. They operate out of Port of Kimberling Marina, right in the heart of the lake.
The boats range from 4-bedroom options up to 7-bedroom configurations — genuinely perfect for a big family trip or a group of families going together. They don’t book online, so call them directly at (417) 988-1387 or fill out their booking form on the website. They do have some last-minute availability for Memorial Day weekend, so it’s worth reaching out soon.
Memorial Day Weekend at Table Rock is one of those Ozarks traditions that’s hard to explain until you’ve done it. Pack the cooler, get on the water early, and let the rest of the weekend take care of itself.
Visit out previous blog on some of our favorite items to pack for your weekend lake getaway here!
Enjoy your weekend!
- Kiley Williams | The Ozarks Edit
