From the Ozark National Waterways to the Gateway Arch; these are our recommendations from our 2024 Travel Adventure in the Show Me State.

Missouri holds a treasure trove of diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. During spring of 2024 we dove into the heart of the Show-Me State, focusing on the captivating Southern and East Central regions.

Enjoy our recommendations for hitting the highlights from the rugged beauty of the Ozarks to the big city lights of St. Louis.

We split up our visit into three sections; click the links to jump to your section of choice or scroll through to see the post in it’s entirety.

These links will jump you to your Adventure of choice or continue to scroll to see them all.

Echo Bluff State Park, our first stop in our Missouri adventures is a year-round outdoor wonderland. Located in Eminence, nestled in the heart of the Missouri Ozarks, it’s location has a lot to offer: floating, paddling, swimming, fishing, hiking, biking and wholesome family fun.

While the park has a spectacular natural setting, the modern amenities enhance the experience and make it welcoming for everyone. The lodge is impressive offering guest rooms, indoor and outdoor casual dining, and various full-service cabins.

We were impressed with the newly established RV Camping sites. They were very spacious with level concrete slabs. They offer an array of services from water only to full-hookup as well as primitive sites on elevated platforms.

We enjoyed our full-hookup site for 2 weeks.

The park also offers hiking and mountain biking trails; a playground for the kids and a beach area along the Current River. Special event areas like the Bluff Top Shelter are also available for larger gatherings.

Alley Mill National Historic Site

Alley Mill and Spring National Historic Site. This historic mill is in beautiful condition and set in an picturesque setting on the shore of a spring. The current building was constructed during 1893-1894 by George Washington McCaskill as a merchant mill. Today you can visit the site and walk the trails around the property. Tour are subject to the National Park Service Office being open which it was not during our 14-night stay in April. I believe they open the Gift Shop and Tours for limited days/times beginning Memorial Day.

Big Spring State Park

Big Spring State Park. Donated to the National Park Service in 1969 as part of the Ozark National Scenic Riverways.

The Big Spring is sometimes called America’s biggest spring as it has an average daily flow of 286 million gallons of water. It is a BEAUTIFUL sight and a geologic wonder.

Approximately a 1-hour from our campsite in Eminence, Big Springs is well worth the scenic drive, especially if you stop by The Jolly Cone, a local favorite in Van Buren for fast food eats and a delicious cool treat.

Blue Spring

Called “Spring of the Summer Sky” by Native Americans, the more famous Blue Spring is on the Current River and is one of the most beautiful places you’ll ever find, anywhere. The spring itself is over 310 feet deep, one of the deepest in the United States. This gives it a vivid blue color that one must see to believe. If you were to place the Statue of Liberty in Blue Spring, her torch would be five feet below the surface of the water!

The spring is reached by a short trail which abounds with wildflowers in spring and fall colors in autumn. While completely surrounded by National Park Service land, Blue Spring itself is owned by the Missouri Department of Conservation.

Blue Spring is located between Eminence and Ellington off of SR 106. A long dirt road leads to the parking area from the state highway, and it is very steep, not recommended for large RVs or buses, although in most weather a normal passenger car can make it quite well. From the parking lot it is about 1/4 mile walk down a pleasant trail.

Current River

The Current River is 184-miles of remarkable waterway. It is known for its crystal-clear waters and rocky bottoms, is considered an easy to medium river with mostly class 1 rapids and a few class 2. 

Perfect for float trips on an inner tube, kayak or canoe. Also known for it’s rainbow trout population they are fun to watch swimming in the clear water and offer good sport for fisherman.

From it’s beginning in Montauk, Missouri the river flows approximately 184 miles in a southeasterly to south direction before flowing into the Black River near Pocahontas, Arkansas. 

You can find float trips ranging from 3 to 94 miles, offering a variety of experiences for families and individuals. You can rent canoes, kayaks, rafts, or tubes at varying locations.

With the help of Carr’s Canoe Rental in Eminence, our first paddle was a short 9.5-miles from Pulltite to Round Springs where we saw an eagle soar above us, explored the famous Pulltite Spring (a short walk), amazing rock bluffs, Sinking Creek and solitude, sweet solitude with nary any other paddlers the majority of the trip.

Again, with the help of Carr’s Canoe Rental our second paddle was from Acres Ferry to Pulltite, an easy 10-miles where we felt completely alone on the water. The highlight of this trip was the incomparable Cave Springs were we enjoyed bird song and entertainment as the birds soared in and out of the cave while we snacked.

Jacks Fork River

Jacks Fork River along with the Current River make up the two pristine navigable waterways within Ozark National Scenic Riverways. Thirty-Five (35) miles of the Jacks Fork are within park boundaries but portions are only navigable during certain times due to low river levels.

We were there in April, perfect for the higher water levels to paddle the 24-mile section from Bucks Hollow to Mill Springs Campground. This was a full day of paddling/floating but was an AMAZING day with eagle, osprey and hawk sightings as well as a brief sighting of an otter family, and…. Swimming Deer!

We used Harvey’s at Alley Springs for a rental and transport. They were awesome being timely, affordable and kind.

Rocky Falls

Rocky Falls. Few places in the Ozarks provide a glimpse of earth’s turbulent past as well as Rocky Falls which can be visited year round. Located on Route NN, off of Route H east of Eminence and Winona. It has a short walking trail to the bottom and another to the top of the falls. They have bathrooms, picnic tables and fire grills for your family enjoyment.

These links will jump you to your Adventure of choice or continue to scroll to see them all.

Steelville

In west-central Missouri, sits the incomparable Steelville, known as the “Home of Hospitality”, “Floating Capital of Missouri”, and “The Population Center of the U.S.” Steelville has much to offer, and the community always works together to make your visit enjoyable.

Campgrounds

Our visit in May of 2024 found us staying at both Huzzah Valley Resort and Bass’ River Resort for a total of 12-nights. Both resorts are comparable and we wouldn’t be able to say which we liked best. Both are a floaters paradise sitting on the banks of the Huzzah River where you can get in your watercraft right from your campsite.

It was from this site that we were close to all the these family fun activities:

Maramec Spring Park

Maramec Spring Park. A 30-minute drive from our campsite in Huzzah Valley Resort, Maramec Spring Park is a hidden gem in St. James! Nestled within 1,588 acres of forest and fields, this natural wonder boasts the state’s fifth largest spring, gushing forth an astounding 100 million gallons of water each day. There are walking trails leading you through the history of the Maramec Iron Works, a trout hatchery where you can observe and feed the residents, and fishing along the banks of the Meramec River. There is also a general store and cafe for your shopping and dining pleasure.

Elephant Rocks State Park

Elephant Rocks State Park. The elephant-shaped boulders at Elephant Rocks State Park, in Belleview, may not be the stars of a circus, but these giant granite boulders are the stars of this unusual park located within a 1-hour drive of our campsite in Steelville.

The elephant rocks, which were formed from 1.5-billion-year-old granite, are giant boulders that stand end-to-end like a train of circus elephants. The rocks have created formations that intrigue geologists, are popular with history buffs, and fascinate children and adults alike. 

An easy way to see the rocks is from the Braille Trail, which was especially designed for people with visual and physical disabilities. The trail winds through the main area of rocks. An extension off the trail leads back to the ruins of an old railroad engine house, a remnant of the area’s quarrying and railroad history.

Caledonia, A Quaint Town to Visit

Caledonia, Missouri. The Village of Caledonia has been recognized by the U.S. Department of the Interior as a historical district as they feature over 20 beautiful historic homes, businesses, churches and cemeteries to visit as you “step back in time”. In the heart of the Bellevue Valley, convenient to several of Missouri’s most popular state parks and other sites along Highways 21 and 32 we stopped in to explore, shop and dine in this quaint corner of Missouri’s rich history. 

Dillard Mill State Historic Site

Dillard Mill State Historic Site. A red mill set on the blue waters of Huzzah Creek is as pretty a picture as there is in Missouri.. The site interprets one of the state’s best-preserved gristmills, completed in 1908. Most of the machinery in the mill is still intact and original to the building.

During our visit, the mill was closed to tours; however, the Mill View Trail was a short 1.8-mile walk to a bluff overlooking the picturesque Dillard Mill and pond.

These links will jump you to your Adventure of choice or continue to scroll to see them all.

Hermann – German Town

Next, on our tour of Missouri was Hermann, tucked away in the Missouri River Valley, Hermann is a picture book village where red brick buildings and rolling vineyards that welcome you to enjoy authentic German cuisine along with beautiful vineyards, entertainment, shopping, outdoor adventures and so much more.

We spent several afternoons walking the quaint streets tasting and shopping. A favorite of ours, as well as locals, is the Hermann Wurst Haus where we devoured authentic German wurst, potato salad, beer and best of all….their German mustard! We left with a stock of wurst and mustard …. and beer to enjoy at home!

We enjoyed a whiskey tasting and an original cocktail at the Black Shire Distillery In addition to their tasking and craft distilling offerings they are located on beautiful grounds that offer outdoor seating to enjoy your cocktail.

Tin Mill Brewery has a large assortment of craft brews and outdoor seating as well as plenty of indoor seating. They also have a restaurant with a diverse menu.

Of the wineries in the area, we spent the most time at Stone Hill Winery There is a large tasting room, shopping area, restaurant, outdoor seating overlooking the vineyard and evening entertainment.

Katy Trail

Katy Trail State Park, the longest developed rail-trail in the country, attracts people of all ages and interests from all over. Whether you are a bicyclist, walker, equestrian, nature lover or history buff, the trail offers opportunities for recreation, a place to enjoy nature and an avenue to discover the past.

The park, built on the former corridor of the Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad (MKT or Katy), is 240 miles long and runs between Clinton and Machens with 26 trailheads and four fully restored railroad depots along the way.

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307 Lakeside Park – Camping

While visiting this busy metropolitan area we enjoyed a more rural setting at the lovely 370 Lakeside Park in St Peters about 30 minutes outside the city.

This is a beautiful family friendly 500 acre park, complete with a 140-acre recreational lake for fishing and boating, RV park, group campground, spray ground, archery range, biking and hiking trails, dog parks, wildlife, beautiful sunsets and more!

Here we had a full hook-up gravel site next to the walking trail and were able to enjoy beautiful sunsets while sipping our evening cocktails after a full day of enjoying the city.

It was from this site that we were close to all the these family fun activities:

Missouri State Penitentiary

Some may find it creepy, mysterious and spooky…..but we enjoy tours and photography opportunities of historic penitentiaries around the country.

Missouri State Penitentiary was particularly interesting as it is the oldest continually operating prison west of the Mississippi River, operating for 168 years before decommissioning in 2004. It now serves as a great historic landmark in downtown Jefferson City welcoming thousands of guests annually from all over the world.

You can book either a history or ghost tour. Both options will walk through historic housing units, the upper courtyard and the gas chamber where 39 men and 1 woman were executed.

We chose the last History Tour of the day which took us up to 8 PM where is was dark so although not the ghost tour we definitely experienced the darkness that befalls an historic structure.

These pictures can be purchased from our site,

St Louis Downtown

Walking downtown St. Louis is a study in contrasts, a fascinating urban hike through layers of history and a city perpetually reinventing itself. Forget the manicured, predictable stroll; here, you’re stepping into a vibrant, sometimes gritty, and always compelling narrative.

Our day in the city began at the colossal Gateway Arch, its gleaming stainless steel reflecting the Mississippi’s vast expanse. The river breeze whispers tales of westward expansion, of steamboats and fur traders. As we begin to walk among the grand, ornate buildings, sleek, modern structures, green spaces with original art work, fountains and so much history all tucked between towering skyscrapers.

The Gateway Arch

Standing at the base of the Gateway Arch, you can’t help but feel small. Not in a bad way, but in a “wow, humans are capable of some incredible things” kind of way. This wasn’t just a sightseeing trip; it was a pilgrimage to a symbol, a physical representation of the American spirit of exploration and ambition.

Our journey began with watching the film “Monument To The Dream“, the award-winning film that documents the construction of the magnificent Gateway. It was both fascinating and frightening to watch as the engineers and construction workers brought this dream to life.

Next, was our scheduled tram ride. Yes, a tram inside the arch. Imagine a tiny, futuristic pod, tilting and climbing its way up the curve of this monumental structure. The anticipation built with every click and whir, a slow ascent into the heart of history.

Emerging at the observation deck, 630 feet above the Mississippi River, the view took our breath away. Slender, curved windows offer panoramic views, and the barely noticeable gentle sway of the arch, adds a touch of humbling vulnerability to the experience. Some could not look out the window but if you can you will find St. Louis laid out like a patchwork of brick and steel, green parks, and the snaking river.

The museum under the arch is a must-see. The exhibits are well-curated, offering a comprehensive look at the history of the westward expansion, the development of St. Louis, and, of course, the construction of the arch itself. We were particularly captivated by the stories of the workers who built this monumental structure, their courage and determination echoing the very spirit the arch represents.

A walk around the grounds will give you a different perspective of the height of the structure. Truly unbelievable until you stand beneath it and look up-up-up!

Leaving the arch, I felt a sense of awe and a renewed appreciation for the audacity of human vision. It’s more than just a monument; it’s a testament to the power of dreams and the enduring spirit of adventure. If you’re ever in St. Louis, a visit to the Gateway Arch is an absolute must. It’s a journey that will leave you feeling inspired, humbled, and maybe just a little bit closer to the sky.

The Gateway Arch, now illuminated, stands like a beacon, a symbol of the city’s enduring spirit.

St. Louis Zoo

Roaming Wild: A Day at the St. Louis Zoo

The St. Louis Zoo isn’t just a zoo; it’s a sprawling, vibrant ecosystem tucked into the heart of the city. They’ve done a magnificent job in providing living spaces for the wildlife and most importantly providing information on everything from where they live naturally, their endangered status, what we can do to keep them here and how to properly interact with them in their current setting.

Our recent visit was a reminder of just how special this place is. It’s not just the sheer number of animals (though that’s impressive!); it’s the thoughtful design of the habitats, the dedication of the staff, and the palpable sense of wonder that permeates the air.

The zoo’s commitment to conservation is evident in their efforts to provide enriching environments for these intelligent animals. The zoo’s diverse landscapes makes it feel less like a collection of cages and more like a series of interconnected worlds.

One of the most impressive aspects of the St. Louis Zoo is its commitment to conservation. They participate in numerous breeding programs and research initiatives, working to protect endangered species and educate the public about the importance of biodiversity. It’s clear that the zoo is more than just a place to see animals; it’s a vital force in wildlife preservation.  

And…most remarkedly, it is FREE to everyone! It can be a full day of fun offering good food (even have a Starbucks in the park) and drink stations throughout.

The Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis

This architectural masterpiece, with its Romanesque exterior and stunning Byzantine interior, is a feast for the eyes. Prepare to be mesmerized by one of the largest collections of mosaics in the Western Hemisphere, covering nearly every surface with vibrant colors and intricate storytelling. A visit to this sacred space offers a moment of awe and reflection, a true testament to human creativity and devotion nestled in the heart of St. Louis.

Guided tours are typically available during weekdays between 10:00 a.m.- 3:00 p.m., pending other scheduled events. Please contact the tour office at 314-373-8241 for availability.

Self Guided Tours can be done during normal hours from 7:00 am – 5:00 pm, do not require reservations, however, we strongly encourage visitors to call and ensure the church is available, especially on the weekends, due to weddings, funerals, Archdiocesan events, and other weekend activities.

We visited during a late afternoon weekday and although there was a wedding rehearsal happening, we had free rein to revel in the beauty of it’s one-of-a-kind work of art, lofty vaults and radiant mosaics. The sheer scale of beauty is a thing of awe.

Conclusion

So, whether you’re drawn to the pristine outdoor adventures on National Waterways or history in the big city, from rolling hills, wineries, historic charm and vibrant cities Missouri offers a rich tapestry of experiences.

It’s a region that truly has something for everyone, leaving you with a desire to return and uncover even more of its hidden gems.

In Closing

If you’ve enjoyed these adventures, please tune in for more as we cover our 2024 visit to Minnesota, North & South Dakota and embark on our 2025 Travels.

Dream Big….Travel Far….Live Well

Photography

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