Kimberling City offers quiet living with lake access and views
Settled along the northern shore of Table Rock Lake, Kimberling City is the largest of a cluster of lakeside neighborhoods known for recreation and natural beauty. “People really see those cities as one big community,” says Jon Hulsizer, an agent with Century 21 Real Estate who’s served the area since 2009. As a result, he says that Kimberling City uses the same amenities as nearby Reeds Spring and Branson West . In addition to tourists, the 67-mile lake attracts anyone looking for a peaceful home base that still has access to shopping, restaurants and views of the lake and the surrounding Salem Plateau. “You have a lot of retirees that move to the area,” says Hulsizer. “A lot of them are looking for lake homes.” Kimberling City’s CAP Index Crime Score is 2 out of 10, half the national average.
Condos and cottages offer views and boat slip access
Most homes in the area were built in the 1990s, with contemporary ranch-style homes in particular being popular. Further inland, neighborhoods stretch out on winding roads across gentle, greenery-festooned hills. Residential streets are relatively narrow, so most homes have attached garages to avoid the crowding of street parking. Prices range from around $210,000 to $400,000. Lake houses and hilltop cottages are also available, selling between $400,000 and $700,000, depending on amenities like boat slips and views. Condos are typical on the far southern shore, generally selling from $170,000 to $450,000, depending on size and location.
Table Rock Lake draws boaters, hikers and campers year-round
The city’s recreation centers around Table Rock Lake, a 40,000-acre lake with about 800 miles of shoreline. Stretching into both Missouri and Arkansas, the artificial reservoir is a major destination, and visitors come from miles around to swim, fish, and take their boats out for a spin. Surrounded by natural woodlands and resorts alike, Table Rock is also a hub for hikers, nature lovers and overnight campers.
Summerfest features music, food and a dog parade
Held every June, Summerfest celebrates the season with live performances, food and tent vendors. The festivities truly get underway after the dog parade, which invites local canines to strut their stuff for the locals. The Black Oak Mountain Amphitheater hosts a variety of performers on its outdoor stage, including ZZ Top, Foreigner and Jeff Foxworthy.
Local shops and restaurants line the lakeside streets
Boutique and locally owned stores, including bakers, coffee shops and beauty salons, are popular near the shore. Harter House Supermarket or True Value are available for groceries. Regarding retail, most people head to Branson, which is about 20 miles away. Ma’s Place is a family restaurant offering hearty comfort food and pit-smoked barbecue. In addition to its extensive menu and full-service bar, Big Buoy’s has live music and lakeside views.
Reeds Spring schools offer open enrollment and sports pride
Reeds Spring School District serves local students and has a B from Niche. Reeds Spring High School, which has a B-plus, is known for its football team, which placed second in the 2022 state championship. Missouri schools offer open enrollment for intra- and interdistrict transfers.
Route 13 connects Kimberling City to Arkansas and Branson
State Route 13 leads to the Missouri/Arkansas border, about 13 miles south. The nearest emergency room and general care hospital is Cox Medical Center in Branson , about 20 miles east.
