8 Best Small Towns in Missouri for Outdoor Enthusiasts
These small Missouri towns are fantastic destinations to visit because of their small-town vibe and because they offer some of the best attractions in the state. For outdoor enthusiasts, particularly, many towns of the "Show" Me" state offer unique experiences. Towns such as Branson are located on the beautiful shores of Table Rock Lake, which is one of Missouri's largest lakes. The beautiful Ozark Mountain range surrounds towns like Wildwood. The variety of natural landscapes set the stage for many exciting adventures, from hiking to boating. Uncover more towns throughout Missouri that promise outdoor enthusiasts endless adventures.
Branson
Branson is in the beautiful Ozark Mountains range and has no shortage of outdoor activities for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The town is renowned for its abundance of lakes, especially Table Rock Lake and Lake Taneycomo. The lakes provide the perfect opportunity for fishing, boating, and water sports. Hiking enthusiasts can explore scenic trails like the Lakeside Forest Wilderness Area and the Ruth and Paul Henning Conservation Area. The parks offer some of the best views of the Ozarks. The town's location along the White River and its proximity to the Mark Twain National Forest make it an ideal destination for camping, bird watching, and wildlife observation.
Additionally, adrenaline junkies can experience the thrill of ziplining through the treetops or enjoy a scenic hot-air balloon ride. A visit to Branson isn't complete without visiting Marvel Cave. The cave is one of the biggest caves in Missouri and is a must-see attraction.
Jefferson City
Jefferson City is the state capital but offers much more than the city experience, with a variety of outdoor activities amid its scenic surroundings. The Katy Trail is one of the nation's most popular rail trails. The trail is a hotspot for hikers and cyclists, providing stunning views of the Missouri River. Another beautiful destination to escape the city is the Binder Lake Recreation Area. The lake is a haven for fishing, kayaking, and picnicking, while Runge Nature Center offers educational nature trails and birdwatching opportunities.
The nearby Missouri River is perfect for riverfront walks and boat excursions. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the extensive trail systems in the surrounding conservation areas, such as Painted Rock Conservation Area and Scrivner Road Conservation Area.
Wildwood
Settled in the scenic hills and lush forests of Missouri, Wildwood has long been known for offering beautiful outdoor activities, scenic destinations, and exploration to those who visit. Babler State Park is a hidden gem that boasts various activities to get out and enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding area. Hiking is one of the main attractions, as numerous trails wind through the banks of the Meramec River. In the winter months, a trip to the Hidden Valley Ski Resort is a must. The resort is a popular destination for winter enthusiasts looking to enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and tubing.
To learn more about the rich history of Wildwood, visit The Wildwood Historical Society. Visitors to the museum will find a wealth of resources for learning about the area's history. The museum has an extensive collection of artifacts, documents, photographs, and other historical materials that are available for research purposes.
Wentzville
This beautiful city has plenty of fun and exciting things to do, from exploring beautiful parks to diving into the history dating back to the early 1800s. When touring through Wentzville, a visit to Quail Ridge Park is a must for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. This massive park has 250 acres of parkland and provides plenty of room to explore. Nature enthusiasts can explore the August A. Busch Memorial Conservation Area's ecosystems, including woodlands and open fields, while hikers and bikers can traverse well-maintained paths.
One of the main attractions for those visiting Wentzville is the historic Vietnam War Memorial. History buffs who visit are provided with an eye-opening history lesson and the opportunity to explore the scenic surroundings of the monument dedicated to the fallen heroes.
Rolla
Rolla is known for its charming blend of natural beauty and outdoor activities. Placed in the popular Ozark region, Rolla serves as an entrance to the Mark Twain National Forest. The beautiful forests are home to numerous hiking trails, such as the Ozark Trail. The nearby Little Prairie Conservation Area is popular for wildlife observation and bird watching. A popular activity is a "Float trip" along the nearby rivers, providing a refreshing escape.
Rolla's nearness to stunning state parks, including Echo Bluff State Park and Meramec State Park, adds to its allure. These beautiful state parks have opportunities for camping, fishing, and exploring caves.
Hannibal
Located over 100 miles north of St. Louis along the mighty Mississippi, the historic town of Hannibal is celebrated around the world as the boyhood home of Mark Twain. The town is home to riverfront parks like Riverview Park, perfect for strolls and picnics with beautiful views. Mark Twain State Park is an escape into nature with hiking trails and fishing spots in abundance. Visitors can experience the same landscapes that inspired Mark Twain's literary works.
The Lover's Leap offers breathtaking panoramas of the river valley. For water enthusiasts, a riverboat cruise along the Mississippi provides a historic and scenic experience.
Cape Girardeau
Cape Girardeau attracts those who value nature, outdoor activities, and the scenic beauty of the Mississippi River region, thanks to its wide range of outdoor experiences. Get in touch with your artistic side by visiting the Cape Girardeau Outdoor Sculpture Trail. Combine art appreciation with outdoor exploration by following the trail showcasing various sculptures throughout the city.
Experience the area's rugged natural beauty by visiting the Trail of Tears State Park. The park also has shaded picnic sites, hiking and horse trails, and the opportunity to fish in the Mississippi River and Lake Boutin. Learn more about the local environment with a visit to the Missouri Conservation Nature Center. The nature center is home to a diverse range of local fauna and offers the experience of viewing wildlife in its natural habitat.
Liberty
History buffs can visit the Jesse James Bank Museum. Find informative displays about the infamous robbery, artifacts, old banking equipment, photographs, historical documents, and more. The nearby Missouri River provides plenty of opportunities for kayaking and canoeing, adding a water element to the outdoor experience.
Missouri is known as a state where nature and society come together to give outdoor enthusiasts a treat. In the small towns of the "Show Me" State, visitors and nature lovers are often spoiled with many attractions that beg to be enjoyed. These small towns are hard to forget and leave a lasting impression on those who visit. From the beautiful landscape of the Ozark Mountain range to the variety of outdoor pursuits at the numerous State Parks, these small towns in Missouri are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
