Boardwalk Nature Trail

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. The spring flows from three outlets at high flow.  Churning out beautiful aqua-blue water (caused by...

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 the junction to hike a counterclockwise loop. The trail slowly descends through the woods.  As you con...

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 spreading across the Black River.  The trail to the observation deck is family friendly and handic...

The area is preserved for these amazing geological wonders. Huge boulders that stand end-to-end like a train of circus elephants fill the park. You can hike through the area and even boulder on top of the rocks. Short trails are found between and around the 'elephants!'

Trail of Tears State Forest lies within one of the most rugged landscapes in Illinois. The hills are steep, and the soil is shallow and susceptible to erosion. Cliffs are all around and streams with gravel bottoms are in the narrow forest filled valleys. In 1838-39 the Cherokee, Creek, and Chickasaw nations were forced by the U.S. Army to move from the southeast to reservations in Oklahoma Terr...

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 an average of 90 million gallons per day, Blue Spring helps feed the Current River with a year round ...