Missouri Route 86 – Cassville to Eagle Rock

If you’re looking for an iconic Ozark drive that balances wooded solitude with classic lakeside charm, Missouri Route 86 from Cassville to Eagle Rock checks all the right boxes. This 13-mile stretch takes us from the small-town vibes of Cassville, winds us through the scenic corridors of Mark Twain National Forest, and delivers us to the relaxed waterfront of Table Rock Lake at Eagle Rock. Whether you’re out for a leisurely cruise, a scenic detour on your way to Branson, or chasing fall colors on a motorcycle, this drive is a reminder of why southwest Missouri is such a hidden gem for road trippers.

We kick things off just east of Cassville, hopping onto MO-86 from Route 76. Almost immediately, the route starts to show its character—rolling southeast, we’re flanked by thick forests that are especially impressive in the spring and fall. The drive isn’t just about getting from A to B; it’s about the journey through the heart of the Ozarks. Mark Twain National Forest surrounds us for much of the way, offering ample opportunities to pull off and enjoy hiking trails or just soak up the serenity of the woods. If you’ve got a little extra time, Roaring River State Park is just south of Cassville, and it’s well worth a detour for hiking, trout fishing, and classic Ozark scenery.

As we continue southeast, Route 86 leaves the national forest near the intersection with Supplemental Route E. The landscape begins to open up a bit, trading dense timber for rolling hills and glimpses of the region’s farm country. Shortly after, we roll into Eagle Rock, a laid-back lakeside community known for its easy access to Table Rock Lake. This part of the route really shines in the summer—Eagle Rock Marina is a popular launch point for boating, fishing, or just hanging out by the water, and the nearby Eagle Rock Campground offers great lakeside camping if you’re looking to extend your stay. Keep your camera ready as we cross Table Rock Lake on the bridge just south of Chain-O-Lakes; the views here are classic Ozarks, with the lake’s fingers winding between forested ridges.

After crossing the lake, MO-86 carries us a short distance southeast to the intersection with Supplemental Route P. This is where our video wraps up, but the adventure doesn’t have to stop—turn south on Route P and you’ll be on your way toward the Arkansas state line, with even more backroads and natural beauty waiting just across the border.

All in all, this 13-mile segment of Missouri Route 86 is a perfect example of why two-lane highways through the Ozarks never go out of style. You get a bit of everything: deep woods, lakeside views, and a pace of travel that’s all about enjoying the ride.