Fire destroys sports complex at Lost Valley Lake Resort

KSDK-- Investigators are trying to determine what caused a fire at a Gasconade County, Missouri resort.

Firefighters were called to the Lost Valley Lake Resort in Owensville around 8:00 a.m. Sunday after someone living nearby spotted smoke coming from the sports complex. When firefighters arrived they found flames shooting out of the building. Crews from eight fire departments were called in to help fight the fire. Firefighters had to use water from two lakes and the 100,000 gallon swimming pool to put the fire out.

"That water was a big help when we first got here." said Battalion Chief Jordan Lottmann, of the Gerald-Rosebud Fire Department.

The sports complex housed an indoor mini golf course, a movie theater, volleyball and basketball courts. The building was also home to winter dances and bingo. Acting manager Carrie Tainter says the complex is the hub of the resort.

The building is a total loss. But Tainter is counting her blessings since the resort is filled to capacity .

"It was a blessing in disguise no one got hurt, "Tainter said. It's just metal and wood. We can rebuild."

This is not the first fire at Lost Valley Lake Resort. A fire in January, 2004 destroyed the main lodge.