If you are visiting the Branson area, chances are that you might want to venture out of town a bit to do some exploring! The Ozarks area is full of beautiful scenery, and surprises around every corner. Check out some of the surrounding towns and see what adventures might be in store for you!
Forsyth, Mo: Forsyth is referred to as the Gateway to the Ozarks Outdoors. The town sits right on Bull Shoals Lake and Lake Taneycomo (short for Taney County Missouri), and is a prime location for fun, family oriented outdoor recreational activities like fishing, boating, hiking and hunting. Shadowrock Park is a popular place for families to play, picnic, swim, fish, camp and enjoy the outdoors on the shores of Bull Shoals Lake. The park boasts a rodeo arena and fairgrounds and is the home of the Annual Taney County Youth Fair and Livestock Show. There is also a campground at Shadowrock Park – there are tent sites with and without water and electricity, RV hookups and sites, as well as opportunities to rent the stage area, the arena, barn or pavilion areas for special events. Tennis courts and a baseball field are also located within the park for community enjoyment!
Kimberling City, Mo: Kimberling City is another charming lakefront town near the Branson area. Kimberling City highlights art, locally owned businesses, and lakeside seclusion – perfect for those who want to get away for a while! The town features a modest golf course and a bowling alley, and is known for being the home of What’s Up Dock, a Table Rock Lake wharf where visitors can rent boats and aquatic rigs for a day of fun on the water. If you are planning on being in the Branson area around the holidays, be sure to visit the Port of Lights in Kimberling City, featuring lighted drive through tunnels and Christmas light displays on the lake!
Reeds Spring, Mo: This charming Branson area town might be hidden from view, but it is well worth the short trip to find it! Named after the Reed brothers who would water their cattle at the town’s natural spring, Reeds Spring makes for a great scenic drive to view the town’s historical structures and beautiful scenery. Try to plan your cruise around meal times – then you can stop in at the famous Reeds Spring Pizza Company! This Branson area town is also the host of Cajun Days, a festival you won’t want to miss.
These aren’t the only nearby Branson area towns to explore. Branson West, Lampe, Springfield, and even a few Arkansas cities are close by – so the next time you are in the Ozarks, be sure to take some time to check out what else they have to offer!
