SHAWNEE BEND

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.

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.

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. 

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.