About Fellows Lake
Fellows Lake has been a cornerstone of Springfield, Missouri’s water system since its creation in 1955. Built by City Utilities of Springfield through the damming of the Little Sac River, this 860-acre lake with 27 miles of shoreline was designed to secure a reliable drinking water supply for the city’s growing population. To further ensure Springfield’s water needs are met, the Stockton Lake Pipeline, constructed in the early 1990s, supplements Fellows Lake during periods of high demand or low inflow. This pipeline connects Stockton Lake to Springfield’s water infrastructure, bolstering Fellows Lake and neighboring McDaniel Lake with additional water when necessary. The lake was named after Frank Fellows, affectionately known as “Uncle Frank,” a dedicated City Utilities employee instrumental in its development. Uncle Frank’s vision and dedication ensured that Springfield would have a secure water supply for future growth.
Over the decades, Fellows Lake has evolved into more than just a reservoir; it has become a cherished destination for outdoor enthusiasts and a model for collaborative water resource management. Fellows Lake is conveniently located just north of Springfield, Missouri, making it an accessible escape for outdoor adventure. The names “Dirt 66” and “Dock 66” pay homage to Springfield’s Route 66 heritage, linking the lake’s recreational opportunities to the region’s rich cultural history.
Today’s Partnerships: From Reservoir to Recreation Hub
While its primary function has always been to provide clean drinking water, Fellows Lake has grown into much more. Recognizing the community’s need for access to natural spaces, City Utilities and local partners have developed the area into a hub for outdoor recreation, combining public enjoyment with environmental stewardship. The continued vitality of Fellows Lake is a testament to the collaborative efforts of several organizations, each playing a unique role:
- City Utilities of Springfield owns and oversees the land and water supply, ensuring the lake’s integrity as a crucial drinking water source
- Trailspring and Ozark Greenways created the Dirt 66 Trail System, offering over 25 miles of hiking and biking trails. Their efforts promote sustainable recreation and connect people to the natural beauty of the area.
- The Missouri Department of Conservation manages the lake’s fisheries and wildlife, ensuring a healthy and diverse ecosystem for anglers, birdwatchers, and nature lovers alike. Sport fishing opportunities include bass, crappie, walleye, and muskie.
- Watershed oversees the Fellows Lake Recreation and Marina program, which offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and paddle sports from Dock 66. We also work to educate visitors about the lake’s role in providing clean water and how responsible recreation supports environmental sustainability. Watershed Director, Mike Kromrey, said, “We want to further our mission of not only connecting people with the lake but connecting them with information and actions we have to do to keep our water clean.”
Fellows Lake is a lifeline for the region. The management of the lake reflects a commitment to balancing human use with ecological health. The Fellows Lake Master Plan outlines a forward-thinking approach to enhance the lake’s recreational, ecological, and educational opportunities while safeguarding its role as a drinking water reservoir.
Experience Fellows Lake Today
Our store offers kayak, canoe, and sailboat rentals (March-Oct), motorized rentals (all year), bait and tackle, drinks, and snacks. By visiting responsibly, you’re helping to protect this invaluable resource for future generations.
