Need a change of scenery? Take a weekend road trip. Springfield makes the perfect basecamp for outdoor adventures less than half a day’s drive from home. We’re here to help with a getaway guide.
Ancient rocks and rushing water make a potent mix for outdoor fun, whether in the heat of summer, the beauty of fall or any time of year. That’s especially true in the eastern Ozarks, less than three-and-a-half hours from Springfield. Johnson’s Shut-Ins and Elephant Rocks, two state parks with remarkable natural assets, are only 20 minutes apart, pairing up nicely as a weekend destination.
You could spend a day or more at Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park. The more compact Elephant Rocks State Park is a half-day outing, leaving time to explore the area — we have ideas for that too. In fact, there is so much to do you’ll want to go back!
Not only that, the pretty drive from Springfield passes through several recreation-rich counties. You might want to plan a scenic stop or two along the way, like Blue Spring, Rocky Falls, or Alley Spring.
And while there are lots of great area campsites, if you like outdoor recreation by day with comfortable digs at night, you’ll find plenty of rentals, cabins, lodges, and bed & breakfasts, too. Read more on ideas and stays here.
Ready to road trip? Take your pick of spots in the St. Francois Mountain region, or plan a weekend trip to see them all:
Majestic sites at Elephant Rocks State Park worth the visit
Elephant Rocks State Park, about three-and-a-half hours from central Springfield, is a sprawling 131 acres. But its main attraction is the seven-acre natural area with majestic sights and gigantic pink-tinged granite boulders.
Johnson's Shut-Ins: Mother Nature's water park
Missouri’s most famous natural water park, Johnson’s Shut-Ins is a geologic wonderland nestled in the St. Francois Mountains. While the park attracts thousands each year to play among its rocky water chutes, slides, waterfalls and pools, it has plenty to offer whether you want to get wet or not.
Elephant Rocks and Johnson's Shut-Ins: More to do and places to stay
A weekend trip to Elephant Rocks and Johson's Shut-Ins will obviously include lots of time admiring the boulders and best-known watering holes. But if you plan a longer weekend, there are plenty of ways to expand your fun.
