This Is The Most Hospitable Town In Missouri
When you live in a beautiful community, it’s natural to want to share it with others. That sense of openness is part of what defines Van Buren, Missouri. Located along one of the most scenic river systems in the United States, Van Buren has a strong boating culture and a small, friendly population that regularly gathers by the water for events, meals, and boat races.
In Van Buren, visitors can see one of the largest springs in the country, hike through Ozark scenery, enjoy a family meal at a nearly 80-year-old ice cream and burger stand, or stay in a rustic cabin in the Mark Twain National Forest. These features, along with the town’s active community life, help explain why Van Buren is often described as one of the most hospitable towns in Missouri.
Van Buren’s Early History
The town was named after President Martin Van Buren, who was serving as vice president under Andrew Jackson at the time. It was founded in 1833 as part of Ripley County, but in 1867, the town was moved about a half mile east across the Current River, where it became the county seat of Carter County.
After the relocation, settlers quickly established government buildings. The oldest still standing is the Carter County Courthouse, built in 1871 with a white conical tower. It is the only cobblestone courthouse in Missouri and remained in use until 2017, when flooding caused significant damage. Since then, the building has remained vacant, though community members continue preservation efforts through the Courthouse Renovation Committee.
Because of its location along the Current River, Van Buren developed as a destination for boating and hiking. Nearby Big Spring was designated one of Missouri’s first state parks in 1924 before being transferred to the National Park Service in 1969. During the Great Depression, the Civilian Conservation Corps worked in the area and constructed rustic lodges, including cabins and the Big Spring Lodge.
The Current River and Surrounding Outdoors
The outdoors is where Van Buren is most active. Big Spring, which lives up to its name, produces nearly 286 million gallons of water each day. Its distinctive blue color comes from dissolved limestone flowing through underground passages. Around Big Spring, several outdoor activities are available, from the Chubb Hollow Trail, where hikers encounter the Big Spring Lookout Tower, to the Big Springs Boat Ramp, where boats can access the Current River.
Big Spring is part of the Ozark National Scenic Riverways, the first national park created to protect river systems. The park preserves the Current and Jacks Fork Rivers, all of which are fed by natural springs. These waterways support swimming, tubing, johnboating, canoeing, hiking, and other outdoor recreation.
Trails near Big Spring combine scenery and historic features. The Spring Branch Trail follows a limestone cliff and leads to a historic dining lodge built by the Civilian Conservation Corps. Birdwatchers often use the 1.8-mile River’s Edge Trail, where Bald Eagles, Blue Herons, Kingfishers, and other species are commonly seen. The Slough Trail, located just north of Big Spring, passes through cane and riparian forest and includes interpretive displays on the area’s natural history.
Families can also visit the Missouri Down Under Adventure Zoo, which includes a zip line and a kangaroo petting area. In downtown Van Buren, the Riverfront Park offers access to swimming and fishing along the Current River.
Events and Gathering Spaces
Van Buren hosts a variety of events throughout the year, many of which take place at the Riverside Amphitheater. The venue is used for concerts and community gatherings, as well as local events tied to the river.
One of the town’s best-known events is Thunder on the Current, a boat race held on the Current River. During the summer months, Van Buren also hosts the Dice Run, which benefits local veterans, along with a Food Truck Festival held in June.
Seasonal events continue into the fall and winter. The River Jam and Fall Festival takes place at Riverfront Park and includes live music, a car show, and food vendors. In December, the Carter County Courthouse hosts Christmas on the Current, a holiday festival with activities centered around the historic building.
The 21 Drive-In Theatre operates year-round and has shown films since 1952. Between Memorial Day and Labor Day, it features Retro Thursdays, which attract both residents and visitors.
Eating and Shopping in Town
Van Buren’s dining options are largely made up of family-owned businesses, many of which have operated for decades. The Jolly Cone is known locally for its ice cream, burgers, corn dogs, and similar fare. Open since 1947, it offers picnic tables on site for casual family meals.
Another option for ice cream, burgers, or coffee is The Ranch House-Coffee Chop and Creamery, which serves both residents and visitors.
For more formal dining, The Blue Heron at the Landing offers a range of dishes, including shrimp scampi, ribeye steak, and catfish. Located at one of the area’s lodging properties, the restaurant reflects the river-focused setting.
Shopping options in Van Buren cover basic needs and outdoor activities. Main Street Market offers groceries and snacks, while the Current River Trading Post sells antiques. The Landing also serves as a place to rent boats, floats, and other supplies for river outings.
Exploring Nearby Ozark Towns
About 44 miles southeast of Van Buren is Poplar Bluff, which serves as a gateway to the Ozarks. The area was first claimed by the French, though permanent settlement did not begin until the early 1800s along the Natchitoches Trace, a historic Native American route.
The Mark Twain National Forest lies within the surrounding region and offers hiking trails, campsites, and fishing areas. One notable destination is Sam A. Baker State Park, located along the St. Francois River and Big Creek. The park includes backpacking, horseback riding, and hiking trails, as well as a nature center and a historic cabin available for overnight stays.
Poplar Bluff also offers several museums, including the Poplar Bluff History Museum, which is housed in the former Old Mark Twain School building, constructed in 1910.
A River Town Built Around Community
Van Buren offers visitors opportunities to spend time on the water, attend local events, and eat at long-running local restaurants. With a population of just over 750 residents, the town maintains a close-knit atmosphere that extends to visitors, whether through shared outdoor activities, local traditions, or everyday interactions.
Its location also makes it a practical base for exploring nearby parts of the Ozarks, including Poplar Bluff and surrounding public lands. Taken together, Van Buren’s river access, community events, and small-town services help explain why it is often viewed as a welcoming stop for travelers passing through Missouri.
