Branson West offers quiet living near Table Rock Lake
Just north of the fingers of Table Rock Lake, Branson West is one small city in what many residents see as a larger community. “Most people treat Branson West, Reeds Spring and Kimberling City as one big city,” says Jon Hulsizer, an agent with Century 21 Real Estate. “They share the same schools, shopping centers – that sort of thing.” Retirees tend to be attracted to the area for the lake, lower crime rates and the privacy that comes with a population of 500. Branson West has a CAP Index Crime Score of 1 out of 10, lower than the national average of 4. “It’s the quieter side of Table Rock Lake,” says Hulsizer, who’s served the area since 2009. “It’s got strict noise ordinances, and most of it is owner-occupied.”
Contemporary lake homes have views and privacy
Branson West’s neighborhoods typically consist of long, winding roads surrounded by greenery. Lots generally are half an acre or larger, with dense woodlands filling the property far beyond the cleared section of the backyard. With a median construction year of 2000, most homes are contemporary builds. Ranch-style homes dominate closer to the city center, typically between $190,000 and $340,000. Brick Contemporary Craftsman homes are popular closer to Garber, priced between $350,000 and $600,000. Sprawling homes with lakeside and hilltop views are available on the city outskirts, typically selling between $460,000 and $1.4 million, depending on size and amenities.
The Table Rock Career Center expands options for local students
Students are served by Reeds Spring Schools, which has a B from Niche. The Table Rock Career Center was opened by the district in 2024. This $36 million facility is equipped to offer students industry-level certifications in subjects like graphic design, criminal justice, welding and automotive technology. Adult education courses are offered online and in the evenings. In 2022, Reeds Spring High School’s football team was runner-up in the state championship.
Table Rock Lake and Dogwood Canyon offer outdoor fun
With over 800 miles of shoreline, Table Rock Lake is a popular site for residents and visitors alike. Anglers and boaters enjoy being out on the peaceful waters, while others take advantage of the surrounding hiking trails and campsites. About 15 miles south, Dogwood Canyon Nature Park is 10,000 acres of natural beauty and recreation. In addition to trails, bike paths and fishing ponds, the park offers tours of the region’s bluffs, waterfalls and canyons. LedgeStone Country Club is a public golf course with an 18-hole championship course built into the Ozark Mountains.
Food trucks and BBQ add character to the area
Most shopping is along Business 13, including local boutiques and fast food. King Foodsaver and Walmart Supercenter are available for groceries and other necessities. Established in 2023, the food truck Slappin Gourmet Fried Rice and Street Tacos is a neighborhood favorite. With a fusion of Mexican and Asian flavors, Slappin offers servings of quesabirria tacos, pineapple fried rice, charro beans and more. Donnie’s has a classic diner atmosphere with daily lunch specials and a menu for all three meals. Family owned and operated, Danna’s BBQ and Burger Shop smokes its meats over locally sourced wood, adding a taste of home to its menu.
State highways connect residents to nearby cities
State Route 76 leads to Branson, about 12 miles away, while State Route 13 offers a 40-mile trip to Springfield. The nearest emergency room is at Cox Medical Center in Branson, which also provides general and specialized care.
