Annapolis, Missouri

The hike begins with a paved trail leading to a plaque marking the highest point in Missouri.  Although there is no view here it is still a fun spot to take a picture. Continue back on the main trail until you reach the junction marked by the backcountry camping registration box. Turn right at th...

The Shut-Ins Trailhead is located located next to the River Store in the Johnson Shut-Ins State Park day use area.   Simply follow the paved trail for 0.3 miles to the boardwalk and viewing deck. Here you’ll find stairs accessing the Shut-Ins. Take your time exploring the unique rock formations ...

An offshoot from the Ozark Trail, the Bell Mountain Loop trail offers a 12 mile loop (when starting from the HWY A trail head) that works perfectly as a beginner backpacking trip. The Ozark Trail website offers excellent maps for all sections of the trail (for free!), click here.Day 1: Hike 7.5 m...

Large rock formations, picturesque creeks, and wildflowers are all found along this trail. The full day hike can be either split in half via a connector trail, or lengthened into a multi-day backpacking trip, as there are three camping sites off the trail.

If you were to place the Statue of Liberty in Blue Spring, the torch of the monument would still be 5 feet below the surface. As part of the Ozark National Scenic Riverways, Blue Spring is a must see and pinnacle of the nature preserve. The 6th largest spring in Missouri with water discharge at a...

With an average daily water discharge rate of 276 Million gallons of water and the largest spring in Missouri it is easy to see how Big Spring got its name. Located in the Ozark National Scenic Riverways, this spring and over 20 other springs nearby feed the Current River in Southeast Missouri. T...

Rocky Falls are located only a short hike away from the parking lot. The swimming hole is also popular, and the adventurous can climb up to the rock face to reach the top of the falls.