When it comes to some of the most popular outdoor adventures in the U.S.—such as hiking, camping, biking, fishing, and running—the Midwest is often overlooked. As a lifelong resident of the region, I admit that I've taken for granted the various outdoor activities available here, too!
While we may lack the towering peaks of the Rockies or Appalachians and the majestic shores of the coasts, the Midwest has plenty to offer outdoor enthusiasts of all backgrounds and skill levels. One state in particular that has a ton of hidden gems for outdoor activities is Missouri, often referred to as the "Show-Me State."
When I moved to St. Louis in 2022, I was skeptical of what I'd find in terms of green spaces, state parks, and outdoor recreational opportunities. I'm pleased to admit I was wrong: Missouri has so many things to do and see among the 350 lakes and rivers and over 200,000 acres of parkland. Let these 10 outdoor activities in Missouri get you started.
1. Go for a Hike or Run at Castlewood State Park
Getty Images, JWLPhotography
If you're a hiker or trail runner, you'll be pleased by how many trails and parks Missouri has to offer. In fact, you'll have more than 92 state parks and seven National Historic Sites to choose among, including some of the best such as Don Robinson State Park, Hawn State Park, Elephant Rocks State Park, and Ha Ha Tonka State Park (yes, "Ha Ha" is part of the name).
But if there's one park you must check out, it's Castlewood State Park, which features nearly 17 miles of trails. Those who find themselves at Castlewood can pick among seven routes. But my personal favorite is the RiverScene trail, which is a 3.4-mile moderate loop near Ballwin, Missouri, only 30 minutes from St. Louis. The trail follows the cliff's edge, passing several scenic overlooks that offer unique panoramic views of the Meramec River valley from over 200 feet below. Most people spend about an hour and 15 minutes on the trail—but no harm in spending more, taking pictures and soaking in the views.
Castlewood also offers biking trails that are accessible for beginner riders as well as challenging for those who have years of experience. Easier and flat trails include the RiverScene and Stinging Nettle, while more advanced trails include Cedar Bluff, Lone Wolf, and the Rollercoaster.
2. Bike Katy Trail State Park
If you prefer biking, one trail you should add to the list is the 240-mile Katy Trail State Park, which is the longest rail-to-trail project in the country. It starts northwest of St. Louis in Machens, Missouri, and ends west at Clinton, Missouri, just off the shores of the Lake of the Ozarks. Bikers don't have to start in Machens, because there are more than 30 access points to the trail, many of which are next to locally owned businesses that offer bike rentals, dining, and lodging. The Katy Trail also connects bikers to more than 30 wineries, several artist studios, and antiques shops.
Whether you're a highly skilled cyclist or just looking for an easy and casual bike ride with the family, this trail accommodates all skill levels while offering diverse and extensive views along the Missouri River. Plus, you'll ride through small towns, learning about the rich heritage and rural history of the area.
Other biking trails you can check out during your time here include the St. Louis Riverfront Trail, Little Blue Trace Trail, and Prairie Creek Greenway.
3. Kayak Through Wakonda State Park
Wakonda State Park, in Lewis County, Missouri, features six lakes, making it a top choice if water sports rank high in your list for outdoor activities in Missouri. In fact, three of the six lakes—Agate, Jasper, and Wakonda—have water trails that range anywhere from 2 to 4 miles long. If you don't have your own equipment, don't worry; Wakonda offers boat rentals. Rent single and double kayaks as well as jon boats from the park office from April 15 to Oct. 31.
After your ride, take a dip and cool off on the park's beach, Missouri's largest natural sand beach. The park is 1,054 acres, so you can easily combine multiple outdoor activities during your visit, whether they be camping, fishing, mountain biking, or picnicking. As you explore, expect to see a diverse range of wildlife such as waterfowl, deer, and various bird and fish species.
4. Explore and Scuba-Dive Bonne Terre Mine
Wikimedia Commons, robertstinnett
One of the most distinctive outdoor activities in Missouri—and the entire Midwest—is Bonne Terre Mine, home of the billion-gallon underground lake. In the largest freshwater scuba diving venue in the world, divers can explore the mine's 20-plus dive trails, which average 40 to 60 feet deep. The lake is illuminated by 500,000 watts of stadium lighting from above, creating incredible visibility more than 100 feet down into the water. During your time exploring, you'll get great views of abandoned shafts and equipment, making it an unforgettable underwater adventure. Any open-water-certified diver can explore the mine; however, certain certifications and reservations are required for scuba diving.
If you can't or don't want to go scuba diving, you may still enjoy the 150-year-old mine by going on any of the guided walking or boating tours, which descend to 200 feet below the surface. Just keep in mind that the walking tour features a 65-step staircase, in and out. If you can manage the stairs, it's truly a must-see bucket list destination. In fact, National Geographic considers the mine "One of America's Top 10 Greatest Adventures."
5. Backpack the Ozark Trail
For one of the more challenging outdoor activities in Missouri, the Ozark Trail (OT) is one of the leading distance hiking trails in America. It winds through 390 miles of gentle yet extensive hills, stone bluffs, and fluid streams in central and southern Missouri. Along the OT, first-time and seasoned backpackers are treated to continuously changing scenery and the natural beauty of lush forests, fresh rivers, and hidden valleys. A great time of year for backpacking the Ozark Trail is during autumn to witness the vibrant fall foliage.
The OT trail features a range of well-maintained backpacking campsites, allowing you to have a convenient and comfortable place to recharge during your trek. Backpackers may also consider taking a short detour from the main trail to see Rocky Falls, a steep cascading waterfall that leads into a large pool of water that can be visited year-round.
6. Camp Under the Stars at Meramec State Park
Meramec State Park is the ultimate destination for camping. Not only does the park offer stunning natural landscapes and flourishing forests, campers also get views of the scenic Meramec River. During your camping trip, you'll enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities including wildlife watching, fishing, hiking, and swimming. The best part of camping at Meramec State Park is spending the night under the stars while listening to peaceful chirps, crickets, and the sounds of flowing streams.
The park offers a variety of campsites that cater to all comfort levels, including basic tent and secluded spots as well as group tent areas. Some sites within the park even provide additional amenities such as hot showers, laundry facilities, and Wi-Fi, ensuring a well-rounded camping experience for all. The state park is family-friendly and has several picnic areas and playgrounds. You may reserve a Meramec campsite up to 12 months in advance.
If you're looking for another area to camp, you may choose among almost 3,600 campsites across the state, including popular ones such as St. Francois State Park, Hawn State Park Campground, and Graham Cave State Park.
7. Unplug in a Tiny Cabin at Getaway St. Francois
Getaway St. Francois
When it comes to escaping the hustle and bustle of city life and immersing in nature, the obvious choice is a camping trip. However, if you find yourself in the same boat I'm in—lacking essential camping gear such as a tent, warm sleeping bag, lanterns, and camping chairs—there's an alternative: unplugging in a secluded tiny cabin offered by Getaway House St. Francois. These tucked-away and cozy cabins elevate the traditional camping experience and don't require you to sacrifice basic amenities and comforts. You'll find a bed, hot shower, toilet, a mini fridge, AC/heat, firewood, a private fire pit, and s'mores (my personal favorite)! While you're here, relax, go for a hike, read a book, build a campfire, and stargaze. Plus, the cabins are dog-friendly so you won't have to leave your pups behind.
The Getaway House in St. Francois, Missouri, is an hour from St. Louis. Plus, it's near many hiking trails, including the Cedar Glide Trail, the Norton Trail, and the Magnolia Hollow Trail. You'll also want to check out some notable restaurants and wineries while you're visiting, such as The Terrace French Village (only five minutes from the outpost), the Chaumette Vineyards & Winery (ranked as the top winery restaurant in the nation), Cave Vineyards, and the historic Anvil Saloon and Restaurant in downtown Ste. Genevieve.
8. Go Fishing on Truman Lake
Missouri offers some of the best fishing across the Midwest, thanks to its over 568 lakes, 2,278 reservoirs, and hundreds of fish species. You'll find thriving fish populations of largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, spotted bass, white and black crappie, white bass and flathead, and blue catfish. One lake in particular to check out is Truman Lake, in Harry S. Truman State Park between the towns of Clinton and Warsaw.
Truman Lake is a 55,000-acre reservoir that is mostly quiet and uncrowded, making it the ideal place to relax and cast your pole. This lake is also loaded with diverse fish populations, including trophy largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, and catfish, providing fishers ample opportunities to catch something. In addition, you may fish Truman Lake year-round with some seasonal changes that ensure each visit remains fresh, scenic, and exciting.
Truman Lake offers full-service marinas and local fishing guides to enhance your experience, whether you're a beginner or a highly skilled fisher. The lake also hosts various fishing tournaments throughout the year, providing opportunities for anglers to socialize and connect with others.
Beyond fishing, the lake also provides a variety of other water activities such as boating and swimming, ensuring that there's something enjoyable for everyone in the family.
9. Take a Dip in the Grand Falls on Shoal Creek
If you're looking for a relaxing weekend trip, look no further than the majestic Grand Falls on Shoal Creek in Joplin, Missouri, which is known as the state's largest continuously natural flowing waterfall. "The Falls" drops 12 feet from a 163-foot-wide rocky ledge, then flows calmly to the south. Unlike most waterfalls that require you to hike through the woods or forests, Grand Falls is only steps from the road, allowing visitors to easily cool off during the warmer months. On hot days, Grand Falls becomes a popular hot spot for swimming—just don't forget to wear water shoes, as the rocks can get slippery!
If you're not interested in taking a splash, you can still enjoy the jaw-dropping views of the waterfall during sunset or sunrise. Because the waterfall is easily accessible and open year-round, large groups and families with children may enjoy the falls, too.
10. Consider Other Activities
If none of these outdoor activities in Missouri piqued your interest, just know there are many other things you can do across the state, whether that be rock climbing in Capen Park, zip lining in Maryland Heights, or hunting at Mark Twain National Forest. More info on these and other great activities may be found at the Visit Missouri website.
READ MORE: Trout Fishing in Missouri: Where and When to Take Advantage of This State's Great Fisheries
