Endless Opportunities to Get Outside

The Missouri State Park system is home to more than 3,500 campsites. If your family camps in five different state parks over a year, you may be eligible for a camper award. Depending on the park you choose, you can find primitive camping sites or luxury glamping options. Some Missouri state parks also have cabins to rent. 

Missouri boasts more than 1,000 miles of trails for hiking or riding. One of the closest and most notable state parks is the Katy Trail system, which has 240 miles for walking or biking. Choose an easy hike if you are just starting to connect with nature, or spend the weekend challenging yourself or training for a marathon. 

When you move to West Central Missouri, you can live and work within an hour of Truman Lake, the Lake of the Ozarks, and the Pomme de Terre River. Truman Lake is the largest in Missouri, covering more than 55,506 acres. The lake of the Ozarks is just behind it, at 55,000 acres. There are plenty of lakefront beaches and ample fishing spots for you to explore.

One of the best ways to see Missouri, is by the water. Grab your sunscreen, and spend your weekend relaxing on a pontoon boat as you lazily explore Missouri’s waterways. You can also strap on a life vest and enjoy tubing and rafting throughout the weekend.

Fishing isn't just for weekend getaways when you live within the Osage Valley Electric Cooperative service area. You can head out to your favorite river during lunch or stop by one of our state parks on your way home. Pick up a single-day fishing permit for $8, or buy a lifetime permit so you know your license never expires.

You can also easily purchase hunting permits online for various prices depending on the species and the season. Missouri is known for its deer, elk, turkey, waterfowl, and black bear hunting.