Missouri’s 6 Most Underrated Tourist Spots, According to Locals

When it comes to vastly underrated states, I dare say Missouri belongs toward the top of the list. As a Redditor since 2013, I have consulted the site many a time for ideas. Where should I go next? What places are worth the trip? What do I need to see? The helpful folks over there are always happy to discuss something they're passionate about, especially when it comes to the state of Missouri and all its wonders. I've compiled a list of some of their favorites - choices I agree with wholeheartedly!

Please know, though, that this is no substitute for going out and exploring independently. The best hidden gems are the ones you find yourself, but these wonders ought to make for excellent jumping-off points. Remember: Respect each destination as if you quite literally live there. Pack out what you pack in. Truly, it's the most important part of all of this.

1. Ha Ha Tonka State Park 

Nestled in beautiful Camden County is Ha Ha Tonka State Park, an incredible must-see mentioned over and over again. And I don't blame anyone: this place is otherworldly in its wonder, and you absolutely have to see the castle ruins. Yes, castle ruins. Right here in Missouri. Rad, right? Anyway, I digress - this awesome park in Missouri is home to one of the state's largest springs, along with myriad sinkholes, caves, and other fascinating geological features. Make a day trip out of it - it's a delight.

2. Elephant Rocks State Park 

Missouri is full of lesser-known geological wonders, and one of my favorites can be found at Elephant Rocks State Park. Not to be confused with the Nebraska state park of the same name, Missouri's version features some truly intriguing-looking rounded-off boulders that resemble how elephants lined up one after the other at old-school circuses. Incredibly, the granite these stones are comprised of are 1.5 billion years old, which blows my mind every time I think about it.

3. Warm Springs Ranch

The Budweiser Clydesdales are an American icon. These magnificent horses have appeared in countless commercials, films, and more, and they are born and bred right here in Missouri. Warm Springs Ranch is in Boonville, and it's an adventure in and of itself. Best of all, it's open for tours, which I highly recommend!

4. Grand Falls

Missouri is called the "Show Me State," and this is appropriate. Ask a local to show you some of the most amazing places in the world, and they'll take you to spots like Grand Falls in Joplin. This breathtaking waterfall is easy to access, completely beautiful, and just minutes from downtown. At 12 feet tall, it's quite impressive to witness.

5. Bell Mountain Wilderness

It's difficult to overstate the wonder that is the Bell Mountain Wilderness. At 9,143 acres, Bell Mountain Wilderness is vast, and it's as beautiful as it is huge. Journey through old-growth forests, marvel at crystal-clear, sky-blue water in every pond and lake, and take in the beauty of Missouri at its purest. This state is paradise, and the Bell Mountain Wilderness is proof of this. The 11.6-mile trail you'll find is an amazing way to get acquainted with the grounds - bring a camera for this one and unleash your inner landscape photographer.

6. Taum Sauk Mountain

Finally, the last entry on this shortlist is the incredible Taum Sauk Mountain, which is the highest point in the entire state. Taum Sauk Mountain State Park is a delight, and the overlook is like something from a dream. It's home to some of the best hiking in Missouri, too, and in the fall, the foliage comes ablaze with wild color. Don't feel like hiking? No worries - you can drive up, too, and I love that.

So, there you have them - a small collection of excellent ideas for jumping-off points, as told to me by my friends at Reddit. I definitely agree with every last one - these are great places, and wonderful ways to get better acquainted with the wonder that is Missouri. For the outdoor adventures on this list, do yourself a favor and upgrade to AllTrails Plus -- it's the most helpful hiking companion. If you're still looking for more Missouri adventure, use our Travel Planner!