Outdoors

Granite “elephants” came to be due to uplift and erosion. Make plans to visit today. You can follow a Braille trail and have a snack on the picnic tables hidden among the rocks. There is so much to see and learn among these “elephants.”

Learn how the site of an early Civil War skirmish became a State Historic Site. Uncover prehistoric Indian sites and part of a Sauk Indian village. Take a hike to see rich flora that are relics of glacial times. Can you find the “cannonball house?”

Named for the governor of Missouri (1924), this state park has stunning vistas, clear mountain streams, mountains, and so much more. Plan your trip for several days (you can stay in a rustic cabin or camp), so you can take in everything this park has to offer.

Dedicated in 1938, this gem of a state park now sits amid an expanding suburban landscape and is worthy of a visit any time of year. There are twenty-two CCC-era structures to visit, rocky hills to hike, and massive trees to stop and rest under.

Pure Air Natives has been supplying Missouri and adjacent states with high-quality native seed and plant material for more than 25 years. The Pure Air Natives team has worked with farmers, recreational landowners, developers, architects, engineers, landscape architects, owners and enthusiasts on projects across the Midwest.

Jump in the car or fire up your motorcycle for a really fun ride. Grab a burger or some Texas-style BBQ. Find out why Missouri is called the Cave State. And end the day at a bed-and-breakfast or a hotel to rest up for the ride home.

Find great adventure on a driving tour that takes you to lakes and rivers, and down scenic fun to drive roads. Jump in the pool, grab a slice of pie, then at the end of the trip, sip a brew and listen to live music.

It’s safe to say that most of us are thrilled for warmer weather, to breathe in the fresh air, witness the greening of nature, undertake an outdoor adventure, and relax afterward with a cold drink and breathtaking views. Located in central Missouri and a close drive from Springfield, Kansas City and St. Louis, Benton County is tailor-made for such pursuits - and much more.

Find your way along the 50 Miles of Art Corridor, take in all the historic homes, and visit with artisans on this amazing driving tour. Plan your trip around the numerous festivals. See eagles and refuel at a plethora of fantastic restaurants. This is one trip that will make memories that last a lifetime

Take a day or weekend trip to two small towns filled with big things to do. From historic homes, to a stunning art gallery to an array of great things to eat. Visit an above-ground pool built in the early 1900s and learn about these towns' Civil War history.