6 Serene Towns in The Ozarks for a Weekend Retreat
The Ozarks are an outdoor paradise, also known as the Ozark Mountains, a plateau that stretches from St. Louis in Missouri to the Arkansas River, covering parts of Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, and Arkansas. The Ozarks are the most extensive highland region between the Rocky Mountains and the Appalachian Mountains, covering 47,000 square miles with two mountain ranges (the Boston Mountains and the St. Francois Mountains). With so much open space awaiting exploration and plenty of top destinations within driving distance, the small towns of the Ozarks promise a sweet escape from the bustle of city life, making them ideal for a weekend retreat.
Jasper, Arkansas
Jasper, Arkansas, has a small population of only around 500 people, but it packs a mighty punch in enticing attractions and beautiful scenery. It is the gateway to Buffalo National River, making it a paradise for canoers, kayakers, and anglers alike. For those searching for an especially memorable vacation, a trip during the annual Buffalo River Elk Festival in June is a must, boasting kid's activities, raffles, live music, local vendors, and more. Folks who love scenic drives will surely enjoy a trip along the Scenic Byway 7 or the Ozark Moonshine Run. Camping offers a glimpse into the area's outdoor beauty, with options available at Dogwood Springs Campground or Enchanted Ozark Camp and Cabins. The Cliff House Inn and Restaurant sits on a hilltop, overlooking Arkansas' version of the "Grand Canyon".
Lake Ozark, Missouri
The town of Lake Ozarks sits just steps away from the shores of the Lake of the Ozarks, a reservoir created by impounding the Osage River and an ever-so-popular destination for all sorts of water sports, be it swimming, boating, floating, water skiing, or anything in between. The historic Bagnell Dam Strip offers a break from a day spent on the water, featuring entertainment options such as scenic views of the Bagnell Dam itself. The town is also just an 11-minute drive from Lake of the Ozarks State Park, with endless outdoor recreation opportunities, such as hiking, biking, camping, fishing, and more. There are small springs, blufftop views of the Lake of the Ozarks, and outpost cabins and yurts for a cozy place to stay. For an especially luxurious experience, there is the Lodge of Four Seasons or the Resort At Lake Of The Ozarks.
Grove, Oklahoma
Grove, Oklahoma, is another lakefront town in the Ozarks, situated on the shores of the Grand Lake of the Cherokees, formed in the mid-1900s after the construction of the Grand Dam and a vital energy source during World War II. Honey Creek Area at Grand Lake State Park is just outside of town and encompasses 38 acres of wide open space, situated on the water, offering room for hiking, boating, and days spent well in the sun. Local events are abundant, such as the Heritage Music Festival and weekly live music at the Cherokee Casino Grove. Outdoor enthusiasts must stop by Lendonwood Gardens, a 3-acre botanical garden overflowing with colorful plants, careful landscaping, and lush greenery. Plenty of cozy spots are scattered throughout town, sharing a glimpse into the town's rustic atmosphere and heritage, such as log cabin rentals or RV and tent camping at Honey Creek Area at Grand Lake State Park.
Bella Vista, Arkansas
Bella Vista, Arkansas, offers a more woodsy escape, located on the Springfield Plateau of the Ozark Mountains, boasting oak forests, deep valleys, flowing creeks, and more. Mountain Biking is especially famous in the area, as is hiking through trails such as the Lake Bella Vista Trail or the Branchwood Walking Trail. There are also five 18-hole courses and two 9-hole courses, ideal for seasoned and novice golfers. History and art lovers ought to check out the Bella Vista Museum and Crystal Bridges Museum of American Arts. There is an annual fireworks for the Fourth of July, a weekly farmers market in the summer months, and the Bella Vista Endura race. For the perfect stay nestled in the woods, visit Cedar Lodge Arkansas Resort.
Osage Beach, Missouri
Osage Beach is just a nine-minute drive from the town of Lake Ozark, giving visitors the perfect opportunity to view two of the most beautiful towns in the Ozarks. It is also just 42 miles southwest of Jefferson City, the capital of Missouri, boasting easy access to the excitement of the city. The area is home to many family attractions, including the Lake of the Ozarks, as well as spots like Pirate's Cove Adventure Golf, Gran Rally Go-Karts, and Jetz Trampoline Park. Annual events include the Fishing Derby, the Fall Festival, and an Easter Egg Hunt. Enjoy life on the water and sit back and relax at Margaritaville Lake Resort, inspired by Jimmy Buffet and home to a golf course and Driftwood Spa and Salon.
Claremore, Oklahoma
The small town of Claremore, Oklahoma, is home to the picturesque Claremore Lake and Claremore Mountain Bike Trails. The town is a stop along the famous Route 66, boasting unique attractions like the 1907 Victorian-era Belvidere Mansion, the Claremore Museum of History, and the Will Rogers Memorial Museum. The historic downtown area hosts a Food Truck Thursday from May through October, the Pumpkin Festival each fall, and the Rogers County Fair and Farmers Market. Claremore also features the Will Rogers Stampede PRCA Rodeo each year on Memorial Day weekend, with bull riding, barrel racing, team roping, and more. Enjoy Claremore Lake's scenery, stay at Andersonville Cottage or stop in at Country Inn Cottage, which is 7.9 miles from Route 66.
The small towns of the Ozarks range from lakefront destinations to cozy towns deep in the woods, with plenty of things to see and do no matter the adventure you seek. From the rugged trails in Bella Vista in Arkansas to the peaceful Honey Creek Area at Grand Lake State Park in Grove Oklahoma, picturesque waters, scenic views, and outdoor exploration are the name of the game when visiting the Ozarks.
