Travel

The richly diverse Current River State Park features almost two miles of beautiful river frontage, offering ample opportunity for swimming, floating, and fishing as well as hiking, backcountry camping, and interpretive programming.

In the May 2024 issue of Missouri Life, we encouraged you to head to the edges of our state and then meander just a bit over the state line for some fascinating day trips. Here are 13 more fascinating journeys to add to your edgy travelog.

Bennett Spring State Park is well-known among anglers for its excellent trout fishing, but visitors also enjoy its hiking trails, Niangua River access, campgrounds, cabins, and meals served in the park's rustic 1930s dining lodge.

In Ste. Genevieve, Crown Ridge Tiger Sanctuary is committed to providing exceptional care to abused and neglected big cats. Fans of these beautiful beasts can tour the facility to learn more about its mission and how the tigers are cared for.

A favorite of conservationists and Scouts, this hilly hideaway in the St. Francois Mountains features a number of special superlatives: highest mountain peak and tallest waterfall in Missouri, and one of the rarest plants in the United States.

A collection of caves and underground streams. Osage influence. Historical ties to a ring of outlaws. Crumbling castle ruins. Tales of a curse. The only thing bigger than the views at Ha Ha Tonka State Park are the stories you'll hear.

Sam A. Baker State Park encompasses 5,323 acres of lush wilds. Whether they come for the camping, floating, fishing, hiking, or horseback riding, outdoors enthusiasts find an abundance of beauty and a nostalgic take on park hospitality.

Take in all of the Civil War history that fills the Anderson House and the nearby 100-acre battlefield. Find out all about the Battle of Hemp Bales and relive what a field hospital was really like.

Formed 50 millions years ago, this state park has geological treasures to share. Meander along one trail to see the flora of ten thousand years ago.

Natural prairie is the headliner at this state park, but the bison, elk, birds, and flowers are also stunning. Prairie State Park is a unique place, dedicated as a living tribute to a nearly extinguished native landscape.