Lake Of The Ozarks-Based Ballparks National To Nearly Double In Size With New Multi-Use Fields

Building on what Ballparks National is calling "phenomenal success" of the last two seasons, the Lake of the Ozarks-based destination baseball complex will begin a major expansion of their facility this year.

Construction will begin in early 2023 on three new, larger fields at the complex, raising the number of state-of-the-art, all-weather fields to eight. The new fields will be sized to accommodate high school and college baseball, but they will also incorporate an innovative design that allows them to be used for a wide variety of sports including soccer, football, and lacrosse, expanding Ballparks National activities beyond the baseball season.

Jeff Vernetti, a Ballparks National owner and general manager, says this is the next step in the carefully planned growth of the complex. "We have always had a vision to be a complete sports destination and these new fields are a huge jump in that direction. We offer a great experience for teams, and we look forward to expanding to welcome additional sports and expanded age groups for baseball in 2023," Vernetti said.

The addition of the larger fields will allow more baseball teams to compete at the facility in the new season. Ballparks National has been filled to overflowing capacity the last two seasons, drawing thousands of new visitors and increased commercial activity to the area.

"As a destination tournament complex that has seen teams from 17 states so far, being able to host high school and college-age baseball teams, as well as non-baseball and softball team sports, will take our success to the next level,” Vernetti said. “Many large club organizations travel as a group, bringing multiple teams of all ages to tournaments. We look forward to seeing clubs from across the country make us a repeat destination and while they are here enjoying all this wonderful area has to offer.”

Over the last two seasons, Ballparks National says its partnerships with area businesses added 5,000 lodging room nights and an estimated $10 million in spin-off revenues for area businesses. A team of more than 70 local employees keeps the bats swinging.

The new fields are scheduled to be open for play in the summer of 2023. Ballparks National plans to add the older age groups to their existing 2023 calendar when they feel progress will allow. Fastpitch and 9-13U baseball teams can register right now at BallparksNational.com.

Ballparks National is located on Highway 54 near Macks Creek, Mo., just west of Lake of the Ozarks, the number one recreational lake in the United States.