Grand Gulf State Park
In Missouri nature enthusiasts can take their pick of all the natural wonders. From swimming holes, to show caves, to breathtaking views, to amazing geological rock formations there is a little bit of everything in this beautiful state. But one thing most people don’t know, is that Missouri also has its own grand canyon. Or Little Grand Canyon as its often called. Grand Gulf State Park is located at State Hwy W, in Koshkonong, Missouri. For more information, click here. With 130 foot high walls, and even a 250 foot long natural bridge! To enjoy the park from a completely different perspective, consider making your way to the canyon floor! This 322 acre park, is located on Missouri’s southern border, and is one of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the Ozarks!
Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park
Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park is one of the most unique state parks in the region. Not only is it an excellent spot for hiking and camping,but its most famous for its epic natural water-park! Johnson’s Shut-Ins is located at 148 Taum Sauk Trail, in Middle Brook, Missouri. For more information, click here. During the summer months, the Shut-Ins transforms into a tropical oasis that is perfect for swimming, and even has a natural rock waterslide. The unique wilderness qualities and geology of Johnson’s Shut-Ins and the neighboring St. Francois mountains make this park a special place to visit. The rugged character provides the perfect backdrop for hiking, camping, exploring, splashing around or just relaxing!
Rocky Falls
Rocky Falls is one of the most unique beach/waterfall combinations in the Midwest. Rocky Falls is located in Shannon County 9 miles southeast of Eminence on Highway NN, off of Route H. For more information, click here. The beach is surrounded with a beautiful rock backdrop, made up of stones more than a billion years old. This gorgeous area is highlighted by the waterfall that pours into the swimming area. The falls itself is a stunning site made up of steep rock formations. The waterfall cascades down over 60 feet from top to bottom, forming into a cool clear pool at the bottom. This is a great place to have a picnic and explore the waterfall area and do some day hiking.
Ha Ha Tonka State Park
Ha Ha Tonka State Park is one of the most amazing state parks you will find in the Midwest. The park rests on more than 3,700 acres of rough, hilly, Ozark terrain. Ha Ha Tonka is a popular destination for hikers looking to enjoy the 15 miles of pristine hiking trails. The park has been referred to as a geological wonderland, with sinkholes, caves, a natural bridge, and one of the largest natural springs in the state, it’s easy to see why. One of the park’s most popular attractions is the ruins of a turn of the century stone castle. With so many amazing natural features, Ha Ha Tonka is one state park you will want to visit again and again. Ha Ha Tonka State Park is located at 1491 Missouri D, in Camdenton, Missouri. For more information, click here.
Blue Springs Natural Area
Missouri is absolutely loaded with incredible natural springs. However there is one that has incredible sapphire blue water it doesn’t even look real. However Blue Spring near Eminence is 100% real. You don’t have to guess how it earned its name. Blue Spring is 14 miles east of Eminence or 14 miles west of Ellington off of State Route 106. For more information, click here. In an area just loaded with gorgeous sites, Blue Springs Natural Area still stands out above the rest. Just follow the Blue Spring Trial path to the most stunning sapphire blue water you have ever seen! The spring is one of the deepest in the United States reaching depths of 310 feet in some areas. Blue Spring is accessible all year, but is most beautiful in the fall while the leaves are changing color and in the spring when the wildflowers bloom.