9 Serene Towns In The Ozarks For A Weekend Retreat

Spanning approximately 50,000 square miles through Arkansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, and Kansas, the Ozark Mountains are full of geological treasures. With stunning rivers and streams, remarkable sinkholes, exquisite limestone bluffs, and extraordinary cave systems, prepare to uncover jaw-dropping beauty like never before as you ditch the crowds and venture into Mother Nature's finest destinations. From Eureka Springs to Kimberling City, discover these 9 serene Ozarks towns for a weekend retreat.

Eureka Springs, Arkansas

Spend some time relaxing in a picturesque small town near Ozark National Forest. See the captivating Lions, Leopards, Tigers, and Cougars in the Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge, or watch a fascinating magic show at the Intrigue Theater for an evening filled with fun and excitement. Unravel the gorgeous waters and scenic native gardens of the Blue Spring Heritage Center, where artifacts and a historical film will take you through the land’s past. Venture through the charming downtown district, admiring the intriguing Victorian homes as you visit the independent boutiques, enjoy traditional American cuisine, and stop by the quaint patisseries and cafes.

Heber Springs, Arkansas

Surround yourself with beauty left, right, and center in Heber Springs, one of the most serene Ozarks towns for a weekend retreat. Between the cascading wonders of Collins Creek Falls and the magnificent views from Sugarloaf Mountain, this town is truly an outdoor paradise where hiking trails for all levels are available. Get sun-kissed on Sandy Beach, a lovely spot for swimming, beach volleyball, or simply relaxing in the pavilion. Greers Ferry Lake is another eye-catching landmark. This award-winning reservoir, recognized for its environmental cleanliness, is incredible for water sports, fishing, camping, and boating.

Eminence, Missouri

In the heart of the Missouri Ozark hills, you will find Eminence, a quaint town with roughly 600 residents. But what the city lacks in size, it makes up for in beauty. Venture through the wilderness with a horseback riding adventure via Coldwater Ranch, exploring some of the 250 miles of scenic trails. Visit the Round Spring Cave, where jaw-dropping lantern tours will take you hiking underground in the summer. You can even rent a canoe or kayak at Windy's Canoe Rentals, paddling along the gorgeous Upper Jacks Fork River. See the sparkling Ozark night sky with a peaceful multi-day trip setting the pace of your own journey, or test your luck at fishing.

Camdenton, Missouri

Soak up the scenery of Missouri from Camdenton, one of the most serene Ozarks towns for a weekend retreat. This stunning small city is situated along the Lake of the Ozarks; a famous resort destination and one of the largest man-made lakes in the US. This is a wonderful place for fishing, swimming, boating, or even laying back with a picnic by the shore. If you are feeling adventurous, Camdenton is also home to unique attractions like Bridal Cave. Fascinating stalactites, columns, and a Mystery Lake can be seen here. Golf enthusiasts are welcome to work on their aim in a picturesque setting at the 18-hole 6,726-yard Old Kinderhook Golf Course.

Mountain View, Arkansas

Named the "Folk Music Capital of the World," Mountain View is the perfect place to dive into the culture and history of the Ozarks. Listen to live tunes with a concert or festival experience in the extraordinary Ozark Folk Center State Park, open from mid-April to late October. The Jimmy Driftwood Music Barn also hosts shows every Friday and Sunday night, featuring local and visiting musicians playing folk and mountain music. Enjoy a cozy evening watching a film on the big screen at Stone Drive-In Theatre, where popcorn, hot food, cold drinks, ice cream, and other snacks are available.

Calico Rock, Arkansas

Located on the White River, Calico Rock is one of the most serene Ozarks towns for a weekend retreat. With spectacular birds-eye landscapes from landmarks like City Rock Bluff, accessible by an easy birding and hiking trail, and incredible Rainbow Trout fishing opportunities at Calico Rock Trout Dock; this Arkansas city is a nature lover’s true paradise. While you are in town, treat yourself to some mouthwatering sweets like caramel cheesecake stuffed French toast or old-fashioned hand-dipped ice cream at the Printing Press Cafe & Ice Cream Parlor on Main Street.

Ponca, Arkansas

Deemed "the crown jewel of the Buffalo National River" (the first national river in the United States with fossils spanning hundreds of millions of years back in time); Ponca is quite extraordinary. Small in size yet abundant in beauty, prepare to see stunning sites like Eden Falls, accessible by a one-mile hike down the Lost Valley Trail. See Elk in their natural habitat in Boxley Valley; learn about the creatures plus other flora and fauna in the Ozarks at the Ponca Nature Center. Approximately three miles east of Ponca you will find Steel Creek Campground. Here, 26 tent campsites and 14 horse campsites await along the Buffalo River under the breathtaking Roark Bluff; each with a fire ring, picnic table, and lantern hook provided.

Galena, Kansas

Discover Galena, a historic mining town on Route 66, often referred to as "Mother Road" or "The Main Street of America." Galena itself offers an incredible mix of natural and cultural attractions. From the wildlife-filled Schermerhorn Park, home to several types of Salamanders and Mussels, to Route 66 and "Cars" movie memorabilia in the Cars on the Route landmark, you will have plenty to see. Get pampered with skin and body therapies in Premier Aesthetics & Luxury Spa, the perfect place to rejuvenate your mind and body in one of the most iconic yet serene Ozarks towns for a weekend retreat.

Kimberling City, Missouri

With its close proximity to Table Rock Lake, a remarkable spot for boating, swimming, water sports, and world-class fishing, Kimberling City is a wonderful destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The lake was actually ranked 10th in Bassmaster's "100 Best Bass Lakes in the Central US" list in 2019. Enjoy a healing massage at Therapeutic Bodyworks, from where you will leave feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. Visit the Port Of Kimberling Marina; they have Ski Boats, Surf Boats, Pontoons, and Double Decker rentals to explore the waters. Grab lunch at the Pier 28 Pizza & Grill, a lovely floating restaurant by What’s Up Dock. While you are in the area, capture exquisite photos of the nearby Kimberling City Bridge.

Takeaways

Home to 58 different species of mammals and rugged peaks reaching over 2,500 feet above sea level, the Ozarks are full of magic waiting to be discovered. Whether you prefer the cascading waterfalls of Heber Springs, the famous fishing opportunities of Camdenton, or the picturesque campgrounds of Ponca, each of these 9 serene Ozarks towns for a weekend retreat is truly one-of-a-kind and offers its own charm that needs to be experienced!