Bagnell Dam

dam, Missouri, United States

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June 18, 2026

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Bagnell Dam is a hydroelectric dam located in south-central Missouri, United States, built across the Osage River. Constructed between 1929 and 1931, its primary purpose was to generate hydroelectric power for the St. Louis area. The dam impounds the Osage River, creating the Lake of the Ozarks, which is one of the largest artificial lakes in the United States. The lake itself is a popular recreation and resort area, featuring extensive shorelines and facilities for fishing and aquatic sports. Nearby, Lake of the Ozarks State Park and Ha Ha Tonka State Park offer natural beauty and recreational opportunities.12

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Lake of the Ozarks
…States, it is impounded by Bagnell Dam, built (1929–31) across the Osage River to provide hydroelectric power for the St. Louis area. Covering an area of 93 square miles (241 square km), the lake is approximately 90 miles (145 km) long and has a shoreline of more than 1,100 miles…
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…States, it is impounded by Bagnell Dam, built (1929–31) across the Osage River to provide hydroelectric power for the St. Louis area. Covering an area of 93 square miles (241 square km), the lake is approximately 90 miles (145 km) long and has a shoreline of more than 1,100 miles…
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Osage River
…Osage River is dammed by Bagnell Dam, which thereby impounds the Lake of the Ozarks. The dam was built in 1931 to produce electricity for St. Louis.
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…Osage River is dammed by Bagnell Dam, which thereby impounds the Lake of the Ozarks. The dam was built in 1931 to produce electricity for St. Louis.
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