> ## Content Index > Fetch the complete content index at: https://www.jetsetteralerts.com/llms.txt > Use this file to discover other available public pages before exploring further. # Discover 7 Things To Do Near Van Buren, Missouri - URL: https://www.jetsetteralerts.com/things-to-do-in-van-buren-missouri/ - Published: 2024-04-03T09:12:25.000Z - Updated: 2025-07-20T21:30:23.000Z - Description: If you're visiting Current River in Van Buren, Mo and wondering what else there is to do, here's a list of the best things to do in or near Van Buren to fill your getaway with the beautiful nature of the Ozarks. - Author: Kylie Jones - Tags: Travel Blog, Explore The Ozarks, Explore Missouri Planning a trip to **Van Buren, Missouri**? You might be coming for the famous river floating adventure — but there’s so much more waiting for you in this charming part of the Ozark Mountains. Below is just a small list of some of the best things to see and do near Van Buren, Missouri for those who love nature and the great outdoors. --- ## Current River ![A gravel bar going out into the clear Current River in Van Buren, Missouri with the mid-day reflecting off a calm portion of the river.](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/5a/b25ae1cc-57ff-42d2-b189-680f1dd95ffc/content/images/2025/07/Current-River--Van-Buren-Missouri.webp) Current River, Mo If you’re looking for a perfect summer escape, **floating the Current Rive**r at Van Buren, Missouri should be at the top of your list. This cool, spring‑fed river meanders gently through the Ozark National Scenic Riverways—America’s first federally protected scenic river—and treats you to clear waters, limestone bluffs, leafy forests, and hidden gravel bars for impromptu swimming or picnics. Whether you’re drifting by inner tube, canoe, raft, or kayak, it’s the kind of laid‑back adventure that feels both refreshing and timeless—childhood memories in motion. - Clear, spring‑fed water framed by limestone bluffs and riverside forests - Float routes to match your pace—from quick tubes to full‑day floats past Big Spring - Abundant swimming stops at gravel bars and deep pools - Easy logistics near Van Buren—rentals, camping, and riverside dining all in one place ✈️ Not A Member? Save Up To 95% On Flights! Our Airline mistake fare and flash sales alerts allow our members to travel the world for a fraction of the flight cost. [View Flight Deals](https://www.jetsetteralerts.com/mistake-fare-examples/) --- ## **Big Spring Park** ![Big Spring in Van Buren, Mo where he spring is i's widest and round with blue cold water and three very large mossy rocks are near the bank. ](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/5a/b25ae1cc-57ff-42d2-b189-680f1dd95ffc/content/images/2024/04/Things-To-Do-Near-Van-Buren---Big-Spring-Park.jpg) Big Spring Park - Van Buren, Mo **Big Spring Park** is a must-see — this natural wonder pours out **278 million gallons** of water each day, earning its reputation as one of the largest springs in the world. It’s the perfect spot to take a leisurely stroll and snap some memorable photos. - — Experience the impressive flow of water up close - — Pack a picnic and relax by the spring - — A key stop on your **things to do near Van Buren Missouri outdoors** list [Big Spring (Missouri) - Wikipedia![](https://en.wikipedia.org/static/apple-touch/wikipedia.png)Wikimedia Foundation, Inc.Contributors to Wikimedia projects![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/6/67/Big_Spring_low_flow_240_cfs.JPG)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Big%5FSpring%5F%28Missouri%29) --- ## **Rocky Falls** ![Rocky Falls in Shannon County Near Winona, Missouri is a large fall that instead of being steep it's just a long falls that gradually falls and one could even walk down it if they wanted. ](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/5a/b25ae1cc-57ff-42d2-b189-680f1dd95ffc/content/images/2024/04/Rocky-Falls.jpg) ****Rocky Falls** is off H-Highway in Near Winona, and just a short scenic drive from Van Buren. Just a 40-minute drive from Van Buren in Shannon County, **Rocky Falls** offers a quick getaway into nature. Here, water cascades **40 feet** over rugged rock formations — a refreshing sight that makes for a great day trip. - — Watch water tumble over striking rock faces - — Ideal for a short excursion with friends or family - — A perfect stop for photography enthusiasts --- ## **Peck Ranch Conservation Area** ![A large bull elk standing in a field at the Peck Ranch Conservation Area near Van Buren, Mo.](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/5a/b25ae1cc-57ff-42d2-b189-680f1dd95ffc/content/images/2024/04/Elk-In-Peck-Ranch-Conservation-Area.jpg) Elk Located at Peck Ranch Conservation Between Winona and Van Buren, Mo Covering **23,048 acres** of rolling hills and forested hollows, [**Peck Ranch Conservation Area**](https://mdc.mo.gov/discover-nature/places/peck-ranch-conservation-area) is a nature reserve where you can experience hiking trails and spot wildlife. Elk were brought back into the area - Wander through scenic trails - Enjoy close encounters with local wildlife - **33 min** (21.8 mi) from Van Buren, via US-60 W and Co Rd P-159 --- ## **Skyline Drive** ![Looking out over a vast distance from on top of a mountain and the land below is covered in a mist from the early morning mist cause by Current River down below. ](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/5a/b25ae1cc-57ff-42d2-b189-680f1dd95ffc/content/images/2024/04/Skyline-Drive-Van-Buren-Missouri.jpg) Skyline Drive In Van Buren, Mo Which Would Normally Show An Amazing View of the River and the Town If it wasn't covered in fog. Take a drive along **Skyline Drive** in Van Buren for a breathtaking views of the river, Van Buren, and even most of Carter County. This scenic route is perfect for those who love being able to see vast distances, and also those who love a good sunset. This is right on your way to Big Spring, and only a couple miles from the parks entrance, so maybe do them at the same time if on a limited timeframe. - Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape - A relaxing drive that also leads to other local attractions - Great for stopping over and taking in nature’s details - Located directly in Van Buren's South Town [Skyline Drive | See The OzarksA Tourism Resource for Southeast Missouri![](https://seetheozarks.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/cropped-STO_icon-2-270x270.png)See The OzarksSee The Ozarks![](https://seetheozarks.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/IMG_0208-HDR.jpg)](https://seetheozarks.com/van-buren-recreation/skyline-drive/) --- ## **Cupola Pond** ![Cupola Pond Near Van Buren Missouri](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/5a/b25ae1cc-57ff-42d2-b189-680f1dd95ffc/content/images/2024/04/Things-to-do-near-van-buren-mo.jpg) Cupola Pond Down J Highway Outside Of Van Buren! Take C Highway from Highway 60, all the way to J Highway. Here's a [link to it on the map.](https://maps.app.goo.gl/RJahDdAiQ6Nhv2Jh9) For something a little different, check out **Cupola Pond**. This area features ancient sinkhole ponds alongside rare Tupelo Gum trees. It’s a unique slice of nature that feels as if you’ve stepped into an entirely different world. - Explore unusual natural formations - Discover a unique environment that stands out from the rest - **37 min** from Van Buren (27.1 mi) via State Hwy J and US-60 [Visit a swamp in the mountainsCupola Pond in Ripley County might be one of the most bizarre natural places in Missouri. Somehow, a piece of “Swampeast Missouri” has been transplanted into the Ozark Mountains…![](https://www.semissourian.com/favicon.ico)Southeast MissourianJames Baughn![](https://www.semissourian.com/photos/17/91/74/1791747-L.jpg)](https://www.semissourian.com/blogs/pavementends/entry/24016) --- ## **Blue Spring** ![Bright blue deep spring with a large rock cliff on he side of it.](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/5a/b25ae1cc-57ff-42d2-b189-680f1dd95ffc/content/images/2024/04/Blue-Spring-Missouri.jpg) Blue Spring (Current River) Last but not least, visit **Blue Spring** — known as [**Missouri's deepest spring**, plunging **310 feet** into the earth](https://www.nps.gov/places/blue-spring-current-river.htm). Its clear waters and surrounding trails provide an immersive experience for anyone fascinated by the wonders of nature. - Witness the depth and clarity of natural waters - Wander nearby trails that invite exploration - **47 min** (34.5 mi) from Van Buren, via MO-106 W between Ellington and Eminence [Blue Spring | See The OzarksA Tourism Resource for Southeast Missouri![](https://seetheozarks.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/cropped-STO_icon-2-270x270.png)See The OzarksSee The Ozarks![](https://seetheozarks.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/DJI_0357.jpg)](https://seetheozarks.com/van-buren/blue-spring/) --- Van Buren may be a small town, but its surroundings burst with opportunities to explore and enjoy nature — a perfect escape for those looking to break away from the everyday. There may not be lot's of things to do in such a small rural area, but these are certainly the best **things to do near Van Buren, Missouri** when visiting. 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