A high-end RV resort is in the works for the Lake of the Ozarks region, as local entrepreneur Justin Wagner moves forward with plans for Native Ridge, a $10 million luxury development on Shawnee Bend.
Inspired by the rustic aesthetics of Big Cedar Lodge in Branson, Missouri, the resort aims to blend upscale amenities with the natural surroundings of the Ozarks.
Wagner, who owns multiple businesses in the area, including Waves and Wheels Marine, recently received approval from the Camden County Commission to rezone the 44.7-acre property from Low-Density Residential to General Commercial.
The decision came despite initial opposition from the county’s Planning and Zoning (P&Z) Commission, which had recommended against the request in an 8-1 vote. “After an extensive search I found the perfect location,” Wagner told LakeExpo.
Plans for Native Ridge include spacious RV sites, outdoor kitchens, fire pits, hot tubs, a private pool, custom lighting, native rock features, nature trails, a dog park, and lake access. Wagner also intends to construct a private dock with courtesy slips for guests.
Additionally, there is potential for several “shouses,” or luxury barndominiums, to be incorporated into the development, depending on demand.
“I want the atmosphere to be in line with the natural aspects of the Ozarks region as much as possible,” Wagner said in an article by Lake Expo.
The project has sparked debate among local residents. Some community members expressed concerns over increased road and boat traffic, potential environmental impact, and the precedent set by allowing commercial development in a historically residential area.
Others, including business leaders and Wagner’s associates, voiced support, emphasizing the economic benefits of the resort and the need for more commercial properties in the region.
In an effort to address concerns about infrastructure strain, Wagner has pledged $50,000 to the Camden County Road and Bridge Department to help mitigate potential road damage caused during construction.
He also presented an alternative development plan, which would have brought a subdivision with 225 manufactured homes to the area without requiring a zoning change. This proposal led some officials to view the RV resort as the preferable option.
“I know some are going to be upset about this decision,” said 2nd District Commissioner Steve Dougan. “But I think I would be more upset if we went with the second option [the manufactured home subdivision].”
Wagner, a long-time local resident and business owner, emphasized that the project is designed to enhance the region’s appeal while creating year-round employment opportunities.
“I want to commend the planning and zoning department,” he said.
“They do not take zoning changes lightly. As a local for 24 years, I appreciate that. P&Z want good things to happen to our community and not just something that is profitable for a few. Commercial growth like this is needed to support our community members with year-round employment.”
With rezoning secured, the next steps for Native Ridge will involve finalizing designs, securing permits, and developing a construction timeline, which Wagner estimates could begin within the next two months to two years.
The project is poised to bring a new level of luxury to the state’s outdoor hospitality offerings, potentially setting a new benchmark for high-end RV accommodations in Missouri.
