Stay at Kel-Lake Motel, a kid-friendly 4-star motel in Carthage, MO. Close to Red Oak II, 66 Drive-In Theatre, and Precious Moments Chapel. Book now!
Recent guests appreciate the motel’s welcoming atmosphere, cleanliness, and value for money, while noting ongoing renovations and its convenient lakeside location.
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Rooms, shared spaces, dining and exterior — grouped so you can skim quickly.
Kel-Lake Motel is a modest, family-friendly option located at 13071 State Hwy 96 in Carthage, Missouri, offering convenient access to nearby attractions and the edge of town. Set near a lake and adjacent to a Dollar General store, the property provides a quiet, country atmosphere that appeals to visitors seeking a straightforward, home-like stay. Guests often appreciate the clean, spacious rooms equipped with kitchenettes, including a microwave and full-size refrigerator, adding practical comfort to their visit.
The motel scores a solid rating of 4 out of 5 from 27 reviews, reflecting generally positive experiences with staff and accommodations. Reviewers cite helpful and professional caretakers who maintain the property and promptly address issues, contributing to a welcoming environment. While some note ongoing remodeling, the overall impression is of a well-kept, affordable place to stay away from busy areas.
Location-wise, Kel-Lake Motel is well positioned for exploration, lying within reach of popular local sites such as the Precious Moments Chapel and the 66 Drive-In Theatre. The motel is roughly a 21-minute drive from Joplin Regional Airport and just under an hour from Springfield-Branson National Airport, making it accessible for travelers arriving by air. On-site amenities are simplicity itself with kid-friendly accommodations, catering to families traveling with children.
With a focus on practicality rather than luxury, this property suits guests looking for reasonable rates and a quiet setting rather than extensive facilities. Its proximity to notable attractions and neighborhood conveniences appeals to those combining sightseeing and relaxation. While the motel attracts a mix of guests, from families to long-term visitors, it is best suited to those who value a no-frills, comfortable base with friendly service in a small-town setting.
The short version: what's available day-to-day, and the key practical details most travelers search for.
Reviews from travelers who stayed here in the last 12 months, grouped to help you spot the pattern quickly.
Home, great people live here, great staff here, it is family here.
back in the mid 90's my mom and dad owned the motel. that was when CNN and many other stations arrived here due to the capture of the two suspects of the Ok,city bombing
When we were homeless and having hard ships they let us move on for almost little to no cost. Nice motel away from everyone. Nice country city seanery attamostphere.
Absolutely love this Motel. The rates I think are the lowest in town yet they still are high quality. Nice clean spacious and home like rooms. Small kitchenette type area with microwave and full size refrigerator. Spacious bathrooms. Satellite TV. Caretakers are amazing! Kind and generous. Extremely professional yet friendly. Promptly address issues in room. Great neighbors. Love the location by the lake and next to a DG. Love that it's on the edge of town, close to my work. Would highly recommend to anyone!
Friendly, helpful managers. Clean large rooms. Excellent prices.
They are remodeling at the moment but very nice place And it's right next to the lake.
Love this little place.. the owner is very kind and not nosey. The room is clean and comfortable with a full size fridge! Plan to stay awhile
Based on sightseeing, recreation, and getting around
Curated spots travelers usually pair with a stay in Missouri. Distances are rough real-world times, not straight-line.
2,314 reviews 4321 S Chapel Rd, Carthage, MO 64836, United States
1,087 reviews 17231 Old 66 Blvd, Carthage, MO 64836, United States
655 reviews 10917 County Loop 122, Carthage, MO 64836, United States
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