10 Small Towns In The Ozarks To Visit For A Weekend Getaway
The Ozarks is a mountain highland situated in the south-central US, covering portions of Arkansas and Missouri, as well as smaller sections of Oklahoma and southeastern Kansas. Often called "The Ozark Mountains" or "Ozark Highlands," this region of the country has dense forest among the several plateaus. These plateaus, called the Boston, Springfield, and Salem plateaus, make up the mountain range and karstic landforms for which this destination is known. There are countless small towns in the 47,000 square miles of the Ozarks, each with its own special charm and fun attractions. Here's a look at the top 10 small towns to consider for your next weekend getaway to the Ozark Mountains.
Jasper, Arkansas
If you want your weekend getaway to include outdoor activities, beautiful scenery, and no shortage of options regardless of the season, Jasper, Arkansas, should be on your travel list. One of the most unique things about Arkansas is that even though it is generally a rural state, especially in the Ozarks, the state went roughly 140 years with zero elk population. The successful return of elk to the state in the 1980s helped increase tourism, particularly to the Hilary Jones Wildlife Museum & Elk Information Center, which is still incredibly popular today. This museum highlights wildlife with informative exhibits of animals in the Ozarks and the local elk herds. It's a great way to spend an afternoon learning about the local animal species that are great for all ages.
Jasper is also home to the US's first national river, the Buffalo National River. If you're visiting during the summer months, one of the best ways to see The Buffalo National River is through Buffalo River Canoes. This kayak and canoe company can help you arrange rentals, shuttle services, and even multi-day trips out on the river so you can get the full experience of nature in the Ozarks. However, you don't have to rough it outside to enjoy the sights, as one of Jasper's top lodging options is located right along the water. The Arkansas House is a historic inn offering cabin rentals, suites, and single rooms in the house dating back to 1933. Southern Living Magazine has recommended The Arkansas House as a top lodging option, complete with an onsite library and fresh Buffalo River honey for sale.
Kimberling City, Missouri
Another great small town in the Ozarks that's perfect for a weekend trip is Kimberling City in Missouri. This tiny town has just over 2,000 residents and sits along the beautiful Table Rock Lake, providing incredible water views. Kimberling City may have a sparse and somewhat residential feel, but that doesn't mean it's lacking in exciting things to do on your next vacation. There's no doubt one of the top attractions in the town is Showplace Collectibles, which has antiques and hidden treasures for sale from different vendors. If you're looking for something a little more high energy, you can rent a ski boat from What's Up Dock at Port Of Kimberling Marina and head out on the water for a day of fun. The marina also has an attached campground and cabins that offer a variety of amenities to make sure your trip is memorable.
Table Rock State Park is a great way to see all of the natural beauty this area has to offer and is conveniently located just a few miles away from Kimberling City. The park is a nature enthusiast's dream, as it offers hiking trails, mountain biking trails, and even premium yurts available to rent. One of the best ways to unwind after a long day on the water is with a meal and cocktail at The View, a restaurant and outdoor entertainment center with stunning views of the Kimberling Bridge. The restaurant has a tiki bar, puts on live entertainment several times per week, and has a large selection of unique mixed drink options. There are several lodging options available in and around Kimberling City, yet the Port of Kimberling Marina & Resort remains a top contender for its affordable prices and positive customer reviews.
Eureka Springs, Arkansas
One town that feels as though it's straight out of a movie is Eureka Springs in Carroll County, northwest Arkansas. Eureka Springs has been considered a tourist town for many years, especially during Victorian times, when travelers would make their way to the town to soak in what they believed to be 'healing springs.' The cold mineral water springs are tied to the town's folklore and remain an eccentric part of Eureka Spring's culture. Today, the Eureka Springs Palace Hotel & Bath House is not only one of the top hotel options in the town but also a historic landmark, as it dates back to 1901. This means visitors can experience the century-old spa and the last standing original Eureka Springs bath house in the state. There are also spa services and retreat packages available in addition to the basic lodging options.
One of the best ways to see all the best views of Eureka Springs while getting to relax is by taking a scenic train ride on the Eureka Springs & North Arkansas Railway. The company offers an Excursion Train experience, which takes passengers on an hour ride through the Missouri and North Arkansas Railroad and is a great option for families with young children. There are also lunch and dinner tickets available, where passengers can enjoy a delicious meal during their trip. Animal lovers visiting Eureka Springs should make sure to plan a visit to the Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge, open seven days per week. This sanctuary takes in abused and neglected wild animals and gives them a safe place to thrive. There are lodging options where you can stay onsite in a treehouse, glamping tent, or safari suite among the big cats who live at the sanctuary.
Reeds Spring, Missouri
One tiny town you shouldn't overlook when planning a trip to the Ozarks is Reeds Spring in Missouri. Reeds Spring is located in the state's southwestern portion and is home to just a little under 1,200 residents. The town's rural feel is complimented by rolling hills and lush forests, making it a great vacation destination for those who prefer a quiet, relaxing location rather than the hustle of a busy city. It's also conveniently located close to Branson, allowing travelers to get to the city in under 30 minutes. This makes StoneBridge Resort a top option for those looking to lodge between Reeds Spring and Branson. This gated resort has a lush golf course, luxury condos and full home rentals, and a private playground for kids.
Theater fans and those who enjoy the arts can plan a visit to Reeds Springs Rock House Center for the Arts. This one-of-a-kind venue is a 1940s' giraffe rock house' with owners who are dedicated to keeping the music and arts thriving in the Ozarks. The unique events are held both outside in the yard and indoors, with some shows offering potluck-style dinners. Rock House Center for the Arts also hosts the annual Rock House Music Festival, which has been a staple in the town for over 15 years. After a day of exploring, take some time to stop into Reeds Spring Pizza Co. for delicious pie and happy hour offerings, along with live entertainment.
Siloam Springs, Arkansas
Though one of the bigger towns on this list, Siloam Springs, Arkansas, is the perfect town for a getaway in the Ozarks! Siloam Springs has around 16,000 residents and has a rich history that can still be seen today through the town's pristine historic downtown district. Much of the history dates back to the 1830s when a pioneer named Simon Sager came to the area and settled. The town's beloved river that runs through the downtown was named after Sager and is still called Sager Creek today. There's no shortage of outdoor activities to partake in when visiting Siloam Springs, as there are several parks and nature areas within the town limits.
Visiting Siloam Springs as an outdoor sports enthusiast warrants a visit to Siloam Springs Kayak Park, though there are activities for younger vacationers, too. The main event at this park is being able to kayak the rapids between 200 cfc and 600 cfs, while kids can enjoy tubing or canoeing. The Siloam Springs Farmers Market is another popular attraction for tourists and locals and has vendors selling crafts, meats, and produce. One of the best lodging options in Siloam Springs is Hampton Inn Siloam Springs, thanks to the affordable prices and homey amenities. With Siloam Springs being rated one of the Best Small Towns in America by the Smithsonian, it's clear it's a great travel destination for families and individuals looking to enjoy nature.
Bald Knob, Arkansas
Bald Knob is a small town in Arkansas that lies on the southernmost edge of the Ozark Mountains. The town was once nicknamed "The Strawberry Capital of the World," and if you're visiting Bald Knob during the month of May, you can attend the annual Strawberry HomeFest Festival. This beloved yearly event focuses on the town's deep history with the fruit and puts on a strawberry eating contest, live entertainment, and a fun carnival with rides and games. However, there are still plenty of things to do if you visit during the winter, including attending the Bald Knob Trail of Holiday Lights event held at the Bald Knob Industrial Park. This family-friendly holiday attraction has free admission and puts on a beautiful display of over 100,000 Christmas lights.
Getting out into the sunshine isn't hard in Bald Knob, especially with the Bald Knob National Wildlife Refuge located in town. This refuge is a peaceful outdoor area that has several opportunities for fishing and refuge hunting during the appropriate season. This refuge has a large waterfowl population and attracts hunters from across the state for the sport. There are hotel and lodging options right in town, with the Regency Inn Bald Knob being a popular choice for the low price, free parking, and convenient location. There's also the OYO Hotel Bald Knob AR Hwy 64, a motel with modest amenities and pet-friendly rooms.
Mammoth Spring, Arkansas
Are you looking for a vacation destination that will get you out on the water? Mammoth Spring is a hot spot for outdoor fun and sits right on the Missouri state line, making it ideal for exploring both states. This town is home to Mammoth Spring, a National Natural Landmark that draws in visitors from across the country. The spring is considered one of the largest in the country, as it has almost nine million gallons of water flowing through it every hour! You can visit Mammoth Spring by visiting the Mammoth Spring State Park, where you can see the falls run over into the 10-acre before turning into Spring River. There's also a museum on the park's grounds where an 1886 Frisco train depot once operated.
If you're looking for adventure and lodging all in one stop, the Southfork Resort may be your perfect destination. This resort has everything needed for a fun-filled weekend, including cabin rentals, campsites, fishing trips, and exciting boating opportunities on the Spring & Southfork Rivers. There is an onside store with everything you may need during your stay, and several cabins have full-sized kitchens. You can always grab a bite to eat at the Penny Loafers Cafe, which has the perfect ambiance and serves up New Orleans-style beignets, breakfast, and lunch, along with its large coffee menu.
Camdenton, Missouri
Camdenton, Missouri, is a town with just over 3,700 people that sits on the western side of the Lake of the Ozarks, situated on the Nicaragua arm. The town dates back to the 1930s and, before that date, has ties to the Osage and Delaware tribes. Today, there's a vast number of attractions that help keep tourism alive in Camdenton, ranging from state parks and hiking areas to historical landmarks. When visiting Camdenton, the Ha Ha Tonka Spring State Park should be a must on your list, as it's often referred to as a geologic wonderland. The unique park has sinkholes, cave systems, and one of the state's largest springs.
One of the best attractions at the Ha Ha Tonka Spring park is the Ha Ha Tonka Natural Bridge, also considered a historical landmark. The bridge is made of dolomite that formed from the waterfall to create the structure and is accessible via a small hiking trail. The Ha Ha Tonka Castle Ruins are another unique structure you can visit in the park that dates back to the early 1900s. Visitors cannot go into the actual castle structure but are allowed to walk the surrounding grounds and take in the scenery. When traveling to Camdenton, the Old Kinderhook Resort, Golf Club, & Spa is a great lodging option that will make your vacation feel like a spa retreat.
Ozark, Arkansas
The small city of Ozark, Arkansas, is home to just 3,500 people in Franklin County. Ozark is known for its small-town charm among the vast mountains and peaceful lakes. The downtown square is a main attraction in this cute town, with picture-perfect storefronts and antique shops lining the streets beside cafes and perfectly landscaped greenery. If you're a history buff, you'll be pleased with all of the informative attractions in the city, especially the Altus Heritage House Museum. This museum is a former 1800s German-American State Bank that holds town history and coal mining memorabilia.
One of the most beautiful but underappreciated attractions in Ozark is the Ozark Area Depot Museum. This museum is on the National Register of Historic Places and was once a fully functioning railroad depot right on the Arkansas River. The museum hosts tours several days per week and has areas for picnicking on the water. While in town, visiting the Ozark History Mural is a must. This mural, located on W. Commercial St. is carved from sand and is a depiction of the town's history. There are several hotels in Ozark to make your stay convenient, ranging from the affordable Ozark Inn & Suites to the Oxford Inn Hotel with a few more amenities.
West Plains, Missouri
If you're looking for another town with a larger population that manages to keep the small-town charm alive, West Plains, Missouri, has 12,000 residents while feeling rural throughout the Ozark hills. The town's slogan is "Make it Happen Here," which clearly shines through in the well-maintained nature areas and historical buildings lining the streets. If you're visiting West Plains during the warmer months, be sure to stop into Galloway Creek Nature Park to view some of the area's wildlife. The park has a 40-acre tract complete with a walking trail, covered bridge, and calming creek that runs through the length of the property.
Those interested in learning more about the town's history and connection with the arts can plan a visit to the Harlin Museum, a valued part of West Plains since 1972. This cultural museum uses art to tell what life was like in the Ozarks throughout time in a space that was once home to former West Plains governor James Harlin. If you're looking for a night of exhilarating fun, spend your evening at the Legit Speedway Park. This motorsports facility can hold 12,000 fans and has been called one of the best dirt tracks in the country! Finding a great place to stay in West Plains doesn't have to be difficult, thanks to the many hotels, including the Hampton Inn West Plains and Baymont by Wyndham West Plains.
Whether you prefer outdoor adventures or learning about town history, these small yet charming towns have something for every type of traveler. From the geologic wonders of Ha Ha Tonka Spring State Park in Camdenton to the historic richness of the Altus Heritage House Museum in Ozark and the captivating wildlife at Galloway Creek Nature Park in West Plains, these towns embody the spirit of the American Midwest. If you're a nature lover, history enthusiast, or looking for a serene getaway, these small towns in the Ozarks are excellent travel options.
