I have a chance to go the the Ozark Mountains in Missouri in a couple of weeks. I'm very excited. Has anyone gone there that can recommend activities?

what part of the Ozarks will you be in? The Branson area or ??

Just moved last year from the Ozarks (Springfield). Really a beautiful place...lakes, caves, camping, river floating, fishing, Branson shows, etc. But tell us more where you will be and what interests you? Maybe your age and who with.

Note: you say "Ozark Mountains" but what there is are mostly areas of rolling hills and valleys and lakes. Have ever been there before?

Bill in Boston
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Bill in Boston

When St. Louisans say "the Ozarks" they mean the Lake of, which is more along the waterskiing lines.

We go down most years to Van Buren MO and stay at the rustic cabins at Big Spring State Park. Rustic, built by CCC in the 30's.
http://www.stateparks.com/big_spring_carter.html
You can go on a canoe float trip, fairly challenging, on one of the spring fed rivers of the National Scenic Riverways. Less strenuous hikes or even just driving to look at Round Spring, Blue Spring, etc.

stokebaily- I love that part of the Ozarks- my ex is from Ironton so have spent a lot of time down there- still so uncommercial - very beautiful part of the country

Hi All,

I've never been to the Ozarks so not quite sure what to expect. Actualy staying in Ridgedale at a place called Big Cedar Wilderness Club. Has anyone heard of it? A couple friends of mine have a timeshare there and invited my boyfriend and I to go. The website makes it look phenomenal. We're not iron men or anything, but pretty active and are looking to do some hiking.

So, on Table Rock Lake and near Branson. My brother's stayed there and likes it a lot.

That's out of my stomping grounds, so can't give specific recommendations. Civil war buffs may enjoy a trip to Wilson's Creek Battlefield near Republic.

I haven't stayed at the Wilderness Club, but I stayed at Big Cedar Lodge several years ago and really liked it. The scenery is beautiful. I know there is hiking in the area, but when I went with my husband and kids most of our time was focused on the lake - jet skis, boating and canoeing.

Ozarkbill is correct, don't expect mountains, just hills. Hope you have a great trip!

So you are headed for a timeshare at Big Cedar Wilderness Club? I see that is a really nice resort setting and located 10 miles south of Branson on Lake of the Ozarks. So of course you may well go to one or more of the shows. You will be surprised by the choices in this entertainment center. Also should mention Silver Dollar City and Shepherd of the Hills. And also note you are close to Dogwood Canyon with its hiking trails. Plus boating and more.

Bill in Boston

Technically, it would be on Table Rock Lake, not the Lake of the Ozarks, which is north and east of Branson.

Right, I stand corrected...Table Rock Lake it is. I'd be interested in comments later from kaymar about Big Cedar Wilderness Club as to accomodations, sightseeing, etc. That is a scenic area.

Bill in Boston

I just got back from the Branson area and the flooding has gone down. They opened table rock dam and the showboat Branson Belle was able to go out. I would recommend Silver City and the show Six. You can get discount tickets. Ask your condo people at the desk. For restaurants Mcfarlands steak house was good. Part of Branson Landing was still under water,but shops and reataurants open. They also have the old standbys-Olive Garden, Red Lobster and Cracker Barrel. We also went to some which were not so good(Plantation).

Definitely do a day at Silver Dollar City and stay for the evening show if possible. The same people own the Branson Belle showboat and give you a nice show and cruise for the money. Go online to see what shows are playing in Branson while you are there because they vary a lot but all have very high production values. Branson Landing is an outdoor shopping mall with the same shops you'll find anywhere else but there's a good Tex-Mex restaurant there. If you want a fun place to eat, go up to Lambert's Cafe at Ozark, MO on highway 65 between Branson and Springfield. It's been listed as one of the top "pig out" places in America--but it's pretty good diner-type food and kind of fun when they start throwing rolls at you. We took friends from the UK to Branson (and Lambert's) last year and they had a ball.

Kaymar...if I'm not too late, can I crawl into your suitcase & go along? You will love Big Cedar! The scenery, customer service & food is great! We spent our honeymoon there 7 years ago & have since returned for a meal or a walk when we've been in the area. You'll find your hikes, skiing, swimming, & great places to relax. The spa is great, & make sure you visit the gift shop. Well really, do everything that's offered at Big Cedar~you won't be disappointed!

But aren't Big Cedar Lodge and Big Cedar Wilderness Club, a time share where our inquirer is staying, two different enterprizes? We too have enjoyed Big Cedar Lodge for a family birthday celebration (mine).

Bill in Boston