Area Attractions

Van Buren, Missouri lies deep in the southeastern Missouri Ozarks, a lovely and peaceful county seat with a population of 893 contented people. It is a major destination for recreational floating and fishing on the famous and beautiful Current River, as well as sightseeing at one of the world’s largest springs, Big Spring. The crystal-clear Current River was the first stream to be designated a National Scenic River, and is the major stream of those that comprise the Ozark National Scenic Riverways.

A Stunning Landscape

Current River springs up in Montauk State Park to the northwest and flows southeast to bisect Carter County. Once heavily used for transportation by Native Americans and the lumber industry, it is now a highly popular stream for fishing, canoeing, tubing, kayaking, rafting, and Jonboating. Along its pastoral length are state parks and forests, large springs, gravel bars and other camp sites, mountains and breathtaking scenery.

Driving Tour
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Big Spring

Big Spring, located in Missouri’s Ozark National Scenic Riverways, is one of the largest single-outlet springs in the United States, gushing over 280 million gallons of turquoise water daily into the Current River. Tucked near Van Buren, its dramatic limestone cliffs and vibrant blue-green pool create a breathtaking setting for picnicking, hiking, and photography. The spring, formed by groundwater dissolving underground dolomite, is accessible via a short boardwalk trail, with nearby historic structures and campgrounds enhancing its appeal. A popular spot year-round, Big Spring draws visitors for its natural beauty and serene atmosphere within the park’s expansive 80,000-acre wilderness.

Directions: From Hwy 60 in Van Buren, take Hwy 103 South 3 miles.

Area Attractions: Hiking, Camping, Pavilion, Fishing, Picnic, Boat Launch, Restaurant and Restrooms

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Rocky Falls

Rocky Falls, nestled within Missouri’s Ozark National Scenic Riverways, is a stunning 40-foot waterfall cascading over vibrant rhyolite rock into a clear, inviting swimming hole along Rocky Creek. Known as a “shut-in” due to the creek’s confinement by erosion-resistant volcanic rock, it offers a picturesque spot for picnicking, swimming, and climbing the gentle, staircase-like falls. Accessible by car near Eminence, this scenic gem attracts visitors year-round, though summer crowds can be heavy. Its proximity to the Ozark Trail and Klepzig Mill makes it a must-see for nature lovers exploring the park’s 80,000 acres of rivers, springs, and forests.

Directions: From Van Buren, take Hwy 60 west 20 miles to Winona, then North on Hwy 19, one mile, then right on H Hwy several miles to Hwy NN. Turn right on NN and follow signs.

Area Attractions: Picnicking, Swimming, Restrooms, Hiking and Fishing

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Peck Ranch Conservation Area

This amazing wildlife area consists of 23,763 acres of rugged, forested hills and hollows including four natural areas. The Ranch’s highest point is Stegall Mountain, 1,348 feet above sea level. Rogers Creek and Mill Creek, which flow into the Current River, meander through the area. Peck Ranch is home to Missouri's wild elk cohort as well as a vast diversity of other wildlife. A visit to Peck Ranch brings opportunity to view White-tailed deer, wild turkeys, song birds, and many other native species. Plan on spending some time here.

Directions: From Van Buren, take Hwy 60 west 13 miles to Hwy P, then North 3 miles to end of blacktop.

Area Attractions: Primitive Camping, Picnicking, Firearms Range, Restrooms and a Variety of Wildlife Including Elk

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Skyline Drive

The scenic route to Big Spring, Skyline Drive is a great place to watch an Ozark sunset through scenic vistas along the Current River Valley.

Directions: From Hwy 60 in Van Buren, take Hwy 103 South 1 mile, turn right on Skyline Drive.

Area Attractions: Beautiful Panorama Vistas

Falling Spring Mill

The historic mill is one of the buildings left from a small farmstead community. The spring behind the mill falls several feet into the mill pond. This is a great place to relax and picnic.The mill and surrounding land are on US Forest Service property and is open to the public.

Directions: From Van Buren, take Hwy 60 West 20 miles to Winona, then South 9 miles on Hwy 19. Turn east on Forrest Service Rd 3150, take left fork and go 2.5 miles on gravel to the mill.

Area Attractions: Picnicking, Fishing and Bird Watching

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Greer Spring

The second largest spring in the state, Greer Spring’s wilderness setting provides stunning natural beauty. The upper outlet goes past a waterfall and plunge pool and may be explored on foot.

Directions: From Van Buren, take Hwy 60 West 20 miles to Winona, then South 16 miles on Hwy 19.

Area Attractions: Restrooms, Picnicking, Hiking, and Bird Watching

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Cupola Pond

This is one of the most interesting and ancient sinkhole ponds in the Ozark uplands. Emerging from the pond are Tupelo Gum trees, a very rare species for the Missouri Ozarks. It is truly a unique natural area. There is a short, easy hike to the pond.

Directions: From Van Buren, take Hwy 60 West 10 miles to Hwy J. Turn south and go 16 miles, then turn east on Forest Road 3224. Go 1.5 miles then turn north on Forest Road 4823. Go 2 miles to parking lot.

Area Attractions: Hiking and Bird Watching

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Blue Spring

At 310 feet, this clear spring is Missouri’s deepest. In fact, if the Statue of Liberty was placed at the bottom, her torch would be completely underwater. The blue color comes from minerals that are dissolved on the water’s underground journey. A 1/2 mile trail starts at the parking lot. Spring and trail are both open year round.

Directions: 12 miles east of Eminence, MO on MO-HWY 106.

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