Well-known for uplifting The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, I found on my highway journey that this intriguing Midwestern state had a splendidly laid-back vibe — all wide-open areas, sprawling mountains, rolling plains, winding rivers, and hidden gems. Listed below are my favourite spots I’d like to share…
1. The Ozarks
I assumed the Ozarks have been one of the lovely elements of Missouri, with their rugged mountains, thick forests, hidden caves, rolling hills, and lakes that glistened within the solar — all of it felt each wild and laid-back on the identical time!
From my earlier cease in El Dorado Springs, I drove two hours southeast and settled in for an unforgettable week, paddling the crystal-clear Buffalo Nationwide River, descending into the eerie depths of Blanchard Springs Caverns and Bridal Cave.
I additionally squeezed in kayaking throughout the Lake of the Ozarks, wandering Eureka Springs with its quirky retailers and Victorian structure, climbing as much as the haunting stone ruins at Ha Ha Tonka, indulging in heavenly chocolate peanut butter fudge at Grandma’s Sweet Kitchen, and unwinding by the tranquil shores of Desk Rock Lake.
- Location: central United States, they embrace elements of southern Missouri, northern Arkansas, northeastern Oklahoma, and a small portion of southeastern Kansas.
- Wildlife: Black bears, white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and bald eagles
- Measurement: 47,000–50,000 sq. miles in complete (overlaying all of the states).
- Location Map
My favourite highlights…
2. Ha Ha Tonka State Park
I assumed that Ha Ha Tonka State Park felt like stepping straight right into a storybook, with rugged cliffs, serene woodlands, clear blue springs, and the haunting ruins of a stone fort perched on a bluff.
From my base within the Ozarks, it was only a 30-minute drive to Camdenton, the place I spent the day mountain climbing trails, backcountry tenting alongside the Turkey Pen Hole Path, standing beneath the towering 100-foot pure bridge, taking in sweeping views from Whispering Dell, cooling off at Ha Ha Tonka Spring, and wandering the dramatic fort ruins that regarded each romantic and eerie towards the skyline!
- Location: central a part of the state close to the city of Camdenton and near Lake of the Ozarks
- Location Map
- Measurement: spans round 3,700 acres
- Wildlife: White-tailed deer, wild turkeys, pileated woodpeckers, and lizards
- Ha Ha Tonka State Park Web site
My highlights…
- Climbing the leisurely 0.7-mile Colosseum Path in 40 minutes – I loved going previous a mossy sinkhole and into the echoing cool beneath the 125-foot-wide Colosseum pure bridge.
3. Desk Rock Lake
Desk Rock Lake was one of many prettiest spots I visited within the Ozarks, with crystal-clear waters framed by rolling inexperienced hills that made the entire place really feel serene but filled with journey.
From Camdenton, I drove two hours south to Branson and spent 4 days on the cozy Mill Creek Resort on Desk Rock Lake.
I hiked the lakeside trails, dove into glassy waters for a swim, paddled out by kayak, and capped it off with a breezy boat cruise. I additionally wandered the vigorous three-mile-long Indian Level peninsula, gazed in awe on the huge Desk Rock Dam, rode vertigo-inducing ziplines at Shepherd of the Hills, and even acquired swept up within the old-time enjoyable of Silver Greenback Metropolis.
- Location: southwestern a part of the state, round 10 miles south of Branson
- Location Map
- Measurement: 43,000-acre space boasts 800 miles of shoreline
- Wildlife: Bass, crappie, catfish, herons, and ospreys
My highlights…
- Eating on the rustic-chic Indian Level Floating Café proper on the water, I beloved gazing over the glowing lake whereas digging into their crispy golden waffle fries and tangy crispy dill pickle chips contemporary from the fryer!
4. Elephant Rocks State Park
Elephant Rocks State Park was such a novel cease — huge, weathered granite boulders scattered throughout rolling hills like a herd of elephants, with quiet woodlands wrapped round them that made the entire place really feel each peaceable and awe-inspiring!
After leaving Branson, I drove three hours northeast to my close by in a single day base on the charming Fort Davidson Lodge and spent the day mountain climbing the paths, clambering over the enormous rocks, picnicking within the shade, and snapping pictures of the surreal and Insta-worthy formations!
I beloved the considerate touches too, just like the accessible Braille Path and even a weekend meals truck, and I noticed loads of native wildlife alongside the best way — from white-tailed deer and raccoons to red-tailed hawks circling above.
- Location: Ozark Highlands area within the southeastern a part of the state (close to the city of Belleview)
- Location Map
- Measurement: spans round 162 acres
- Wildlife: White-tailed deer, raccoons, squirrels, and red-tailed hawks
- Elephant Rocks State Park Web site
My highlights…
- Taking a 15-minute detour off the Braille Path – it led me by means of dense woods to the mossy Eighteen Nineties Engine Home Ruins, the place I noticed crumbling reddish-pink granite partitions and rusted iron stays of the Iron Mountain & Southern Railroad restore store!
5. Wah Kon-Tah Prairie 
I assumed Wah’Kon-Tah Prairie felt like stepping again in time — countless tallgrass fields swaying within the breeze, dotted with wildflowers and alive with native wildlife!
From Joplin, I drove an hour and a half northeast to El Dorado Springs, the place I primarily based myself for 2 nights on the close by cozy El Dorado Springs Cabin which was simply quarter-hour from the prairie. I hiked quiet trails by means of the grasslands, took scenic drives at sundown when the sky glowed gold and purple, and noticed intriguing wildlife transferring stealthily by means of the open panorama.
- Location: southwestern a part of the state close to the city of El Dorado Springs in St. Clair County,
- Location Map
- Measurement: 3,350-acres
- Wildlife: white-tailed deer, prairie chickens, coyotes, bobcats, field turtles and prairie kingsnakes
- The Nature Conservancy of Missouri Web site
My private highlights…
- I stayed till sundown when heat golds, fiery oranges, delicate pinks, and deep purples washed over the wide-open prairie whereas crickets and meadow birds stuffed the air with sound!
6. Huge Cedar Lodge
The 4-star Huge Cedar Lodge was essentially the most romantic cease on my journey — a rustic-chic resort the place heat wooden and stone interiors regarded out over the shimmering Desk Rock Lake and rolling Ozark hills.
From my former cease in Branson, it was solely a 20-minute drive south to Ridgedale, the place I checked in for 2 dreamy nights. My Falls Lodge Premier King Room got here with a balcony view that stopped me in my tracks, and I spent my time absorbing spa therapies, eating at cozy eating places, exploring the High of the Rock Misplaced Canyon Cave and Nature Path by golf cart, and admiring the championship golf programs I didn’t dare play!
- Location: Ridgedale the southwestern a part of the state (close to the town of Branson)
- Location Map
- Wildlife: White-tailed deer, wild turkeys, songbirds, and waterfowl round Desk Rock Lake
- Measurement: spans 4,600 acres
My highlights…
- Indulging in a Botanical Bliss Natural Facial within the upscale spa – cooling aloe and cucumber soothed my pores and skin, and inexperienced tea with rosehip oil left me glowing and refreshed!
7. Dogwood Canyon
Dogwood Canyon felt like a tranquil retreat tucked into the Ozarks, with crystal-clear streams, cascading waterfalls, and luxurious forests linked by charming stone bridges and boardwalks.
Whereas staying at Huge Cedar Lodge, I drove simply quarter-hour south for a full day of mountain climbing and biking alongside shaded trails, taking a scenic tram tour by means of bluffs and waterfalls, and wandering previous the country Mill & Canyon Grill and even a whimsical little treehouse — all of it felt very timeless and superbly crafted!
- Location: southwestern a part of the state (round 10 miles south of the Ozark city Branson)
- Location Map
- Wildlife: Rainbow trout, elk, bison, and songbirds
- Measurement: spans over 10,000-acres
My favourite highlights…
- The 2-hour open-air tram tour – I actually loved gliding previous bluffs and waterfalls whereas studying the park’s ecology and historical past, and watching shaggy bison and listening to noisy elk bugles echo simply toes away within the Bison-Elk Nation pasture!
8. Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park
Johnson’s Shut-Ins was one of the enjoyable and adventurous spots I visited — the Black River speeding by means of historical volcanic rock had carved out pure water slides, swimming holes, and swimming pools that felt like a large out of doors playground set towards the St. Francois Mountains.
From Belleview, it was only a 30-minute drive south, and I stayed within the close by Arcadia Academy (which was a 30 minute drive away) for 2 days. I tackled the two.25-mile Shut-Ins Path and spent my different free time sliding into cool swimming pools, picnicking on the rocks, mountain climbing by means of shady forests, and studying concerning the park’s geology on the Black River Middle. Only a heads-up although—there aren’t any lifeguards right here, so swimming is totally at your personal danger!
- Location: southeastern Missouri inside the St. Francois Mountains of the Ozarks close to Lesterville
- Location Map
- Wildlife: Minnows, crayfish, salamanders, deer, and warblers
- Measurement: 8,781-acre space
My favourite highlights…
- Hitting the out of doors River Retailer and shopping for a cool memento mug with the river carved on it!
9. Blue Spring
Blue Spring was one of the breathtaking pure spots I discovered in Missouri — its sapphire-blue water was so clear I may see straight to the underside, shimmering like a hidden jewel tucked deep within the forest!
From Taum Sauk, I drove an hour and a half west to Eminence and spent a day mountain climbing the brief half-mile path from Route 19, winding by means of lush woodland earlier than the spring out of the blue appeared like a secret oasis. Sadly I discovered I couldn’t swim there, because it’s protected to maintain its pristine situation, however simply standing on the edge watching the water glow felt particular sufficient!
- Location: southeastern a part of the state (inside the Ozark Nationwide Scenic Riverways and close to the city of Eminence)
- Location Map
- Wildlife: Minnows, aquatic bugs, songbirds, and butterflies
- Measurement: deepest spring within the state at about 310 ft and the sixth largest by quantity, discharging round 90 million gallons of water per day.
My highlights…
- Additionally exploring the close by Present River and different pure magnificence spots in Ozark Nationwide Scenic Riverways for a full day of outside adventures – I particularly beloved the picturesque Alley Spring and the crystal-clear Spherical Spring!
10. Missouri State Capitol and Governor’s Mansion, Jefferson Metropolis 
I visited Jefferson Metropolis as soon as and thought these have been two of essentially the most engaging landmarks within the state! The Capitol’s grand Neoclassical dome, marble halls, and Thomas Hart Benton murals have been simply attractive, whereas the Governor’s Mansion fully charmed me with its elegant Victorian interiors and fairly riverside gardens. I beloved the sense of historic grandeur and the formal, virtually regal vibe.
From Dixon, it was about an hour’s drive north to achieve the state capital on the Missouri River. I spent a day right here, becoming a member of a free guided tour I had reserved on-line to discover the hovering dome, the legislative chambers, and the Missouri State Museum. Afterwards, I toured the Governor’s Mansion and strolled by means of its superbly stored gardens earlier than heading on my method.
My private highlights…
- Happening a historic tour of the tremendous Governor’s Mansion which dates again to the 1870s – I significantly beloved the Grand Corridor with its excessive ceilings, elaborate crown moldings, and gorgeous grand staircase!
11. Prairie State Park 
I beloved visiting this quieter pure gem—it felt like moving into an countless sea of tallgrass prairie, with sweeping horizons, wildflower meadows bursting with shade, and the occasional name of prairie chickens carrying throughout the breeze! Its uncooked, untouched magnificence made it one of the tranquil spots I explored in Missouri.
From Powell Gardens, I drove about 2.5 hours south to Mindenmines on the Kansas border, the place I camped for 2 days on the easy onsite campsite. I hiked scenic trails, watched free-roaming bison grazing towards golden grasses, noticed prairie chickens throughout bird-watching, and soaked up the historical past woven into this preserved ecosystem of native tallgrass prairie.
- Location: Positioned in Barton County, within the southwestern a part of the sate (close to the city of Mindenmines)
- Location Map
- Wildlife: Free-roaming bison, coyotes, prairie chickens, and meadowlarks
- Measurement: covers round 4,000 acres
My private highlights…
- Climbing the leisurely 3.3-mile loop Coyote Path which took me an an hour and 40 minutes to finish – it was an incredible expertise to see how numerous the prairie was and likewise to listen to the coyotes howling within the night!
12. Gateway Arch, St. Louis
I used to be fully awed by this gleaming stainless-steel curve hovering above St. Louis—it shimmered towards the sky and Mississippi River and completely captured the spirit of exploration! Standing beneath it, I may really feel why it’s such a robust image of America’s westward enlargement!
I started my Missouri highway journey right here, flying into Lambert Worldwide Airport and driving simply 20 minutes downtown to the Arch. Over three days I rode the quirky tram to the very high for unimaginable panoramic views, explored the interactive Gateway Arch Museum, strolled the landscaped park grounds, took a riverboat cruise on the Mississippi, and stepped contained in the historic Outdated Courthouse close by.
My private highlights…
- Visiting the Arch at evening – I beloved watching it mild up the sky and forged a glow which made the entire space really feel surreally lovely!
13. Grand Falls
I used to be wowed by this majestic waterfall—the huge, tumbling waters crashing over rocky ledges created a scene that felt each highly effective and serene, particularly when the daylight sparkled throughout the spray! It’s no marvel it’s the most important constantly flowing pure waterfall in Missouri.
From Mindenmines, I drove about an hour east to Joplin and spent the afternoon at Grand Falls. I admired the scenic views, stretched out on the rocky ledges, explored the close by creek, and ended with a romantic picnic whereas listening to the soothing rush of water—my favourite a part of the go to!
- Location: on Shoal Creek simply outdoors Joplin in southwest Missouri
- Location Map
- Wildlife: Fish, turtles, frogs, and nice blue herons
- Measurement: drops about 12 toes and stretches round 163 toes
My favourite highlights…
- I beloved taking a dip within the calm swimming pools simply downstream of the falls – it was the right spot to chill off! I used to be additionally grateful I introduced my water footwear, as there have been just a few rocky spots.
- Watching a dramatic, vibrant sundown over the west facet – it felt like a shocking portray coming to life!
14. Clifty Creek Pure Bridge 
I visited Clifty Creek Pure Bridge as soon as and thought it was like stepping right into a fairytale! This historical stone arch framed the forest superbly, with rugged rock formations and the mild sound of Clifty Creek flowing beneath—it felt virtually magical with the rustle of leaves throughout me.
From Sullivan, I drove two hours west into Maries County to the Clifty Creek Conservation Space and hiked the reasonably difficult 2.5-mile path from the parking space on Maries County Street 511. The uneven terrain, creek crossings, and small climbs made it an journey, however it was so value it to face beneath the arch and soak within the peaceable, untouched great thing about the Ozarks.
- Location: Clifty Creek Pure Bridge is positioned in Maries County, close to the city of Dixon in central Missouri.
- Location Map
- Wildlife: Squirrels, deer, owls, and refrain frogs
- Measurement: spans 35 toes in width and stands about 15 toes tall
My favourite highlights…
- Experiencing the sundown right here felt really magical! I sat and watched the sky mild up with dramatic, vibrant colours, and because the solar dipped down over the west facet the entire place glowed!
15. Cape Girardeau
I visited Cape Girardeau as soon as and thought it was one of the charming riverside cities in Missouri! Sitting proper on the Mississippi River, it received me over with its fairly riverfront views, historic brick structure, and leafy parks that gave the entire place a relaxed, small-town really feel with loads of character.
I ended my loop with a 2.5-hour drive east to achieve this mid-sized metropolis and spent a day exploring. I wandered the historic downtown, strolled the riverfront, discovered about native historical past on the Cape River Heritage Museum, and walked the grounds of Fort D. I additionally hiked a part of the Path of Tears Nationwide Historic Path, admired the Wall of Fame with its 47 well-known Missourians, browsed vintage retailers, and completed the day eating at one of many many unbiased eating places.
- Location: southeastern a part of the state alongside the Mississippi River
- Location Map
- Inhabitants dimension: 40,818
My highlights…
- Eating within the Mary Jane bourbon + smokehouse – I beloved the cool, laid again vibe, the hand-crafted bourbon cocktails and its significantly hearty parts! I opted for the Crispy Sprouts which was potent mixture of roasted walnuts, fried capers and a chile garlic dressing, and it was a terrific selection!
16. Meramec Caverns
I visited Meramec Caverns as soon as and thought they have been a hanging pure marvel! This huge underground world within the Ozarks amazed me with its intricate stalactites and stalagmites, shimmering limestone partitions, and the illuminated “Wine Desk,” which gave the entire place an virtually mystical glow. I beloved the combo of pure magnificence and engaging historical past—it felt each instructional and otherworldly.
From St. Louis, I drove simply over an hour southwest alongside I-44 to Stanton and joined an 80-minute guided tour on the well-lit 1.25-mile route. Studying concerning the caverns’ 400-million-year historical past whereas strolling by means of the cool, echoing chambers was unforgettable. I stayed in a single day at a close-by lodge, and above floor I took a riverboat experience on the Meramec River, explored the quirky Jesse James Wax Museum, and even braved the Caveman Zipline for a closing thrill!
My private highlights…
- Studying all concerning the Jesse James connection on the guided tour – it was actually fascinating to search out out that within the 1870s, the infamous outlaw reportedly used the caverns as a hideout, Apparently artifacts linking to him to the spot have been found inside the cave!
17. Meramec State Park
I visited Meramec State Park as soon as and thought it was such a peaceable pure haven! Set within the Ozark Mountains close to Sullivan, it drew me in with its lush forests, towering bluffs, and the mild movement of the Meramec River—it felt splendidly tranquil in comparison with busier parks. I beloved how immersive the panorama was, with caves, glades, and dense woodlands throughout.
It was only a brief 10-minute drive from Meramec Caverns, and I camped right here for 2 nights. Throughout my keep I hiked elements of the 13 miles of trails, went mountain biking on the Meramec Loop, and frolicked on the river kayaking and rafting with leases out there. I additionally explored Fisher Cave with a handheld mild, which was an actual spotlight, and rounded it off with a go to to the park’s nature heart to be taught extra concerning the space.
- Location: Ozark Mountains close to Sullivan in jap Missouri
- Location Map
- Measurement: spans almost 7,000 acres
- Wildlife: Beavers, white-tailed deer, purple foxes, and woodland birds
- Meramec State Park Web site
My highlights…
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Staying on the Meramac Caverns Motel which was a low key, no frills place however I beloved how pleasant the workers have been and likewise that I may stroll to the caverns in below 10 minutes.
18. Powell Gardens
I visited Powell Gardens as soon as and thought it was one of many prettiest botanical gardens within the state! Unfold throughout 970 acres close to Kingsville, about 30 miles east of Kansas Metropolis, it impressed me with its tranquil environment, colourful plant collections, and hanging modern structure. I beloved how immersive it felt, with every themed backyard providing its personal appeal.
From Meramec State Park, I drove 2.5 hours northwest and spent a day right here. For the $12 entrance charge, I wandered by means of seven themed areas together with the Fountain Backyard, Heartland Harvest Backyard, and the Perennial Backyard, strolled alongside peaceable trails, and admired the superbly curated landscapes bursting with seasonal blooms.
- Location: in Kingsville within the western a part of the state (round 30 miles east of Kansas Metropolis)
- Location Map
- Measurement: roughly 970-acres
- Wildlife: Butterflies, dragonflies, songbirds, and frogs across the ponds and gardens
- Powell Gardens Web site
My highlights…
- Attending their “Gardening 101” class – it was nice to find out about all of the plant choice, soil preparation, planting methods, and upkeep practices!
19. Taum Sauk Mountain State Park
I assumed this was a rugged and unspoiled gem! House to the state’s highest level and tallest waterfall, Mina Sauk Falls, it felt splendidly below the radar, with dense forests, rocky glades, and sweeping views of the St. Francois Mountains. I beloved its untouched, tranquil vibe—it was the right place to search out solitude in nature.
From Johnson’s Shut-Ins, I drove simply 20 minutes deeper into the mountains and camped for 2 nights at a secluded walk-in web site. I hiked to Mina Sauk Falls, explored the park’s rugged trails, and soaked up the breathtaking views from the rocky overlooks—it was wild, uncooked Missouri at its finest.
My private highlights…
- Climbing the leisurely 0.4-mile out-and-back Highpoint Path which took 20 minutes – it was unimaginable to finally get to the best level within the state the place I noticed very good panoramic views of the encircling St. Francois Mountains!
The place is Missouri?
Missouri is a Midwest state bordered by Iowa to the north, Illinois and Kentucky to the east, Arkansas to the south, and Kansas, Nebraska, and Oklahoma to the west.
