Best Places to visit in the Ozarks
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If you’re looking for the perfect place to get away and truly immerse yourself in nature, there’s no better place than the Ozarks. With its rolling hills, lush forests, beautiful creeks and rivers, and countless recreational opportunities, this area of Missouri is a haven for travelers and RVers alike. Here you can explore stunning landscapes filled with diverse wildlife while participating in your favorite activities -- from camping under star-filled skies to going fishing on one of the region's many pristine waters. So don't wait – let's start planning your Ozarks adventure today!
Lake of the Ozarks
It is also known for the manmade Lake of the Ozarks, home to over 900 campgrounds. At the time of its creation in 1931, it was the largest manmade lake in the world. Today it is the second largest behind Truman Lake, also in Missouri.
Today, its surface covers approximately 61,000 square miles. The lake’s 1,150 miles of shoreline is more than the coast of California. At its greatest depth, it is 130 feet deep, and from one end to the other, it spans 92 miles. The lake holds roughly 617 billion gallons of water and is home to about 70,000 docks. It took 20,000 workers two years to finish building Bagnell Dam, which is 2,543 feet long.
Aside from fishing, swimming, boating, skiing, and jet skiing, what else can you do around the Lake of the Ozarks?
Bridal Cave is one of the most scenic caves in America.
1. Bridal Cave
Check out Bridal Cave. It is rated as one of the most scenic caverns in America, with more formations per square foot than any known cave or cavern in the US. You can get a cave tour and check out the visitor’s center, gift shop, rock shop, nature trails, gemstone mining, and observation tower. It is open year-round and can be reached by boat at mile marker 10-1/2 on the Big Niangua arm of the lake.
Local folklore tells us the beautiful cave got its name because of a Native American wedding ceremony that was held there in the early 1800s. Today, the cave can be reserved for a romantic wedding chapel.
2. Ha Ha Tonka State Park
See the turn-of-the-century castle and the breathtaking views at Ha Ha Tonka State Park.
This park features the stone ruins of a turn-of-the-century castle built by a prominent Kansas City businessman. The imposing architecture and breathtaking scenery make it a must-see spot high atop a bluff. Hike more than 15 miles of trails that lead to sinkholes, natural bridges, caves, and lake views.
Branson
If you like musical shows, fun attractions, zip lines, and interesting eateries, Branson, Missouri is a must!
1. Silver Dollar City
Of course, Silver Dollar City should be at the top of your list of things to do. The 1880s-themed park has great stuff for the kids, but adults will enjoy all it has to offer too. You can ride some of the best roller coasters in the heartland, check out the many shops, see amazing artisans with demonstrations, and chow down on delicious food. Don’t forget to check out the show schedules and enjoy entertainment throughout your day in the park.
The Shepherd of the Hills drama is truly an awesome experience.
2. Shepherd of the Hills
The Shepherd of the Hills drama is a live, action-packed reenactment of the famous historical novel by Christian minister Harold Bell Wright. The story tells of the life of the Ozark Mountains of Missouri in the late 1800s.
More than 90 actors and actresses, horses, sheep, mules, and donkeys perform on a stage the size of a football field. There’s a shoot-out, the actual burning of a log cabin, a love story, a mystery, and a moral message. More than 8 million have enjoyed the show.
3. Titanic Museum
As you step into the Titanic Exhibit, you climb the grand staircase and become one of the passengers on that fated voyage. You will interact with artifacts and displays, hear stories and sound from passengers and experience the history of the ship and its passengers and crew. You can see how long you can put your finger in the 28-degree water, the same temperature as the sea was that night. You will also discover the fate of the person whose name you hold throughout your visit.
If you like good food, talented trick riders, and a cast of characters, you will love Dolly Parton’s Dixie Stampede.
4. Dolly Parton’s Dixie Stampede
Dolly Parton’s Dixie Stampede is a great show with a cast of characters, talented trick riders, and great food. You will ooh and aah at the horsemanship, cheer on the participants, and come away with some great memories and a full belly. Don’t forget to visit the outdoor Horse Walk and meet some of the four-legged stars.
5. Branson Strip
Plenty of shows on the Branson Strip will provide musical entertainment, all laced with a good bit of humor, patriotism, and much more. Don’t miss the Haygood family, the Dutton’s, the Baldknobbers comedy show, Presley’s Country Jubilee, Clay Cooper Theatre, the acapella group Six, tribute bands, a dog act, and much more.
Before you head to a show, have dinner at Mel’s Hard Luck Diner, 2800 West Highway, W 76 Country Blvd, Branson. The 1950s-themed diner features wait staff that will serenade you while you enjoy your meal. The staff are up-and-coming singers, songwriters, and musicians; some are part of the local entertainment scene.
Canoe or Kayak the Buffalo River
Roark Bluff on the Buffalo River provides some spectacular scenery as you float down the river.
If you love to canoe or kayak, don’t miss a run on the Buffalo River. The river is in Northern Arkansas, about an hour south of Branson.
Established in 1972, the Buffalo River flows for 135 miles and is one of the few remaining undammed rivers in the lower 48 states. The river is considered for more experienced canoers and will run from quiet pools to running Class I and II rapids. The scenery along the 10-mile stretch from Ponca to Kyles Landing makes for a popular spring trip.
If you start your journey at Ponca or Jasper, you will find some tiny towns with incredible hiking and great river views. Put in at Steel Creek for easy access and views of the Roark Bluff and Harvest Bluff.
As you float down toward the White River at Buffalo City, you will be in awe of the spectacular scenery.
What Will You Do in the Ozarks?
We highly recommend everyone add the Ozarks to their must-see list! So many activities for couples, families, or retirees will leave you happy-tired at the end of the day. RVing is all about making memories and enjoying the time that you have. Don’t miss out on this great area of the country for some exciting memory-making fun you won’t regret.
If you’ve visited the Ozarks before, let me know in the comments your favorite part. Since I’m from that part of the country, I have focused on areas I know well but I know I’ve missed so many fun things to do.
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About the Author: Terri Nighswonger and her husband, Todd, are well-traveled RVers and work campers. They've work camped from Maine to Arizona with their Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Newton, and their Minnie Australian Shepherd, Remi.
They love Arizona, where winter coats are a thing of the past. They plan to enjoy the west for a while. Writing is Terri's passion, but she also loves hiking, kayaking, walking her dogs, and anything she can do outdoors.