Van Buren MissouriATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Van Buren, Missouri.
1. Big Spring
LARGEST SPRING IN MISSOURI
Big Spring is the largest spring in Missouri and one of the largest in the world, with approximately 278 million gallons of water gushing forth daily. The gem of the Ozarks, it offers stunning views where visitors can witness the impressive flow of water up close. Big Spring features hiking trails, camping facilities, picnic areas, fishing spots, and a boat launch for a complete outdoor experience.
2. Current River
SCENIC WATERWAY ADVENTURE
Current River is a popular attraction in Van Buren offering activities like canoeing, kayaking, and floating. Visitors can enjoy the crystal-clear waters while taking in the scenic beauty of the surrounding Ozark landscape. The river is part of the Ozark National Scenic Riverway and provides an ideal setting for outdoor recreation and relaxation.
3. Ozark National Scenic Riverway
PROTECTED RIVER SYSTEM
Ozark National Scenic Riverway is America's first federally protected river system encompassing the Current and Jacks Fork Rivers. The riverway offers visitors opportunities for paddling, fishing, swimming, and exploring hundreds of springs, caves, and historic sites. Its pristine waters and lush surroundings make it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
4. Big Spring Historic District
CULTURAL HERITAGE SITE
Big Spring Historic District preserves the cultural heritage of the area with its collection of historic structures and landmarks. The district showcases the architectural and cultural development of the region over time. Visitors can explore various buildings that tell the story of Van Buren's past and the importance of Big Spring to the community.
5. Rocky Falls
CASCADING NATURAL WONDER
Rocky Falls features stunning water cascading 40 feet over igneous rock formations, creating one of Missouri's most scenic spots. Located about a 40-minute drive from Van Buren, it's accessible by car and offers perfect opportunities for photography enthusiasts. The site connects to the Current River Section of the Ozark Trail, making it ideal for hikers and outdoor adventurers.
6. Skyline Drive
PANORAMIC VISTA ROUTE
Skyline Drive serves as the scenic route to Big Spring with breathtaking panoramic vistas along the Current River Valley. Travelers can enjoy some of the most spectacular Ozark sunsets from various lookout points along this elevated roadway. The drive is located just a mile south of Highway 60 in Van Buren, making it easily accessible for visitors seeking natural beauty.
7. Falling Spring Mill
HISTORIC MILL SITE
Falling Spring Mill is a historic structure that remains from a small farmstead community, offering a glimpse into the area's past. Behind the mill, the spring falls several feet into a picturesque mill pond, creating a tranquil setting for relaxation and picnicking. Located on US Forest Service property, the site is open to the public and offers activities like fishing and bird watching.
8. Missouri Down Under
UNIQUE WILDLIFE EXPERIENCE
Missouri Down Under offers visitors a unique wildlife experience featuring Australian animals and interactive exhibits. Guests can get up close with kangaroos, wallabies, and other exotic creatures in a family-friendly environment. The attraction provides educational opportunities while delivering entertainment for visitors of all ages.
9. Peck Ranch Conservation Area
WILDLIFE AND NATURE PRESERVE
Peck Ranch Conservation Area is a vast nature preserve spanning thousands of acres near Van Buren. The conservation area is known for its elk restoration program and diverse wildlife viewing opportunities. Visitors can explore hiking trails, observe native plants and animals, and experience the natural beauty of the Ozarks in a protected setting.
10. Blue Spring
VIBRANT BLUE WATERS
Blue Spring is known for its strikingly vibrant blue waters that emerge from underground caverns near Van Buren. The spring's exceptional color comes from its depth and mineral content, creating a mesmerizing natural phenomenon. Visitors can access viewing platforms to appreciate the spring's beauty and learn about its geological significance through interpretive displays.
11. Cupola Pond
UNIQUE WETLAND ECOSYSTEM
Cupola Pond is a rare sinkhole pond ecosystem that supports unique plant and animal species near Van Buren. The pond represents one of the few remaining examples of a once common wetland type in the Ozark region. Nature enthusiasts visit to observe its distinctive ecology and experience a glimpse of Missouri's natural heritage.
12. Current River State Park
RIVERSIDE RECREATION AREA
Current River State Park offers riverside recreation opportunities along the pristine Current River. The park features trails, picnic areas, and river access points for various water activities. Visitors appreciate the natural setting and well-maintained facilities that make outdoor enjoyment accessible for everyone.
13. Alley Spring
HISTORIC MILL SITE
Alley Spring features a picturesque red mill building set against the backdrop of a beautiful spring near Eminence. The historic mill and spring combination creates one of the most photographed scenes in Missouri. Visitors can tour the mill, learn about its history, and enjoy the surrounding park with its crystal-clear spring and recreational opportunities.
14. Echo Bluff State Park
MODERN OUTDOOR DESTINATION
Echo Bluff State Park is a modern outdoor destination featuring impressive bluffs overlooking Sinking Creek near Eminence. The park offers upscale lodging options, camping facilities, and various outdoor activities including hiking, swimming, and fishing. Its central location provides easy access to many of the region's natural attractions while offering contemporary amenities for a comfortable stay.
15. Round Spring Cave
UNDERGROUND NATURAL WONDER
Round Spring Cave offers ranger-guided tours through an underground world of stunning formations and subterranean ecosystems. Visitors can explore the cave's passages while learning about its geology, history, and the unique creatures that inhabit it. The cave maintains a constant cool temperature year-round, making it an excellent activity during hot summer months in the Ozarks.