The Ozarks offer more than one weekend can hold, and almost all of it sits about an hour of Springfield. Theme parks, indoor attractions, big lakes, quiet trails and serious off-road riding are all close by. Lake time and off-roading are our office’s favorite ways to spend a day off, so this list comes from people who actually go.
Theme Parks: Silver Dollar City and White Water
Silver Dollar City and White Water are both in Branson, about 50 minutes from Springfield. Our family has been going long enough to see how these trips change as kids grow up.
When our kids were young, summers were all about White Water and the water rides at Silver Dollar City. As they got older, nothing was more exciting than the roller coasters. Now, as the grandparents have gotten older, our family’s favorite times are the fall Harvest Festival and An Old Time Christmas. The time we spend together at Silver Dollar City has become something we treasure.
That’s the best thing about these parks. There’s a right season for every stage of family life. Silver Dollar City is an 1880s-themed park with rides, live shows, working craftsmen and seasonal festivals. White Water is a 13-acre water park with a wave pool, slides and a lazy river. It’s seasonal, running from late May through early September, so check dates before you plan a trip.
Indoor Adventures: Wonders of Wildlife and Bass Pro Shops
When it’s too hot, too cold or too wet, Springfield has you covered. Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium is one of the best indoor days in the region. Springfield is also home to the flagship Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World, which is an attraction in its own right and worth the walk even if you never buy a thing. I believe standing in the circle aquarium is one of the most peaceful places in Springfield. The circle of fish is very calming.
On the Water: Table Rock Lake and Bull Shoals Lake
Table Rock Lake is about 40 minutes from Springfield. It’s the go-to for boating, fishing, swimming and sunsets. Bull Shoals Lake is about an hour and 15 minutes away and stretches into northern Arkansas, so it’s a good choice when you want a longer trip and more open water. Recreational boating and fishing are the best, and these two lakes are far bigger than most people think.
Hiking: Busiek State Forest and Hercules Glades
Busiek State Forest and Wildlife Area was my wife’s and my favorite date spot before we were married. You get to know someone when you get lost in the woods together. It’s about 18 miles south of Springfield on U.S. 65, with roughly 18 miles of trails through creek valleys and rugged Ozark hills. It’s also free. Take water and some snacks and enjoy the heart of the Ozarks.
Busiek is primitive, with no facilities, so pack what you need. Expect creek crossings, and wear sturdy shoes you don’t mind getting wet.
For a bigger outing and camping, Hercules Glades Wilderness in the Mark Twain National Forest offers classic Ozark glades and backcountry hiking.
Off-Roading: TexPlex, Chadwick and Mark Twain National Forest
If you’d rather ride than hike, you have options.
- TexPlex at Fox Creek Park near Hollister covers about 1,500 acres of trails for UTVs, ATVs, Jeeps and dirt bikes. Rentals are available if you don’t own a machine.
- Chadwick Motorcycle and ATV Use Area in the Mark Twain National Forest has nearly 80 miles of trails. A riding permit is required, and machines can’t be wider than 50 inches.
- Mark Twain National Forest roads offer miles of scenic driving. Rules vary by district, so confirm what’s open before you go.
Before You Head Out: Insure the Toys
Boats, pontoons, jet skis, ATVs and side-by-sides make these trips fun. They’re also where a lot of people find coverage gaps. Most homeowners policies exclude or severely limit motorized vehicles, especially once they leave your property. That’s exactly where lake and trail accidents happen.
We insure these vehicles, and we use them ourselves. See our recreational and powersports insurance page for the coverages available in Missouri, Arkansas and Kansas.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best things to do near Springfield, MO?
The Ozarks offer something for every type of trip. Silver Dollar City and White Water are the big draws for families, Wonders of Wildlife and Bass Pro Shops handle bad-weather days, and Table Rock Lake is the top pick for time on the water. Hikers and off-road riders have Busiek State Forest, Hercules Glades, TexPlex and Chadwick.
How far is Branson from Springfield?
Silver Dollar City and White Water are about 50 minutes from Springfield, depending on traffic. Table Rock Lake is about 40 minutes away.
Does my homeowners insurance cover my boat, ATV or UTV?
Usually not, or not nearly enough. Most homeowners policies exclude or limit motorized vehicles, especially away from your property. A separate recreational policy closes that gap, and it’s typically inexpensive for the protection it provides.
Do I need a permit to ride at Chadwick?
Yes. Every machine needs a riding permit, and machines must be 50 inches wide or narrower. Confirm current requirements with the Mark Twain National Forest before your trip.
Hours, prices, seasons and trail conditions change. Always check with each attraction before you go.
Written by Kirk Reisner, MBG Insurance. Ready to make sure your boat, ATV or UTV is properly covered? Start a quote or call our Springfield office at (417) 773-7822.