*** Review is during COVID-19 ***…read more Came here earlier in the summer and it was so fun. This is a great spot!!! We wanted to find a swimming hole one day, which I now know can be very difficult to do! After driving around and around to several different spots for hours, where place after place turned out to be unsuccessful or just nonexistent, we were almost ready to give up. Then we remembered one more spot we could try... a swimming hole we'd been to when I was a little kid, with surprisingly clear blue water. We couldn't remember the name at first, but after some calls to my Grandma (always a great resource!) she helped us remember that it was Little Blue! Little Blue was still a bit hard to track down, but we eventually made it there, and had FINALLY found a spot worth staying around for! The water was as pretty as we remembered. In the shallower parts, it's crystal clear and you can see lots of pretty rocks on the bottom and sometimes little fishies too! The deepest part becomes a pretty blue color, and the water went up to at least between my elbows and shoulders (maybe more?). That deepest part isn't a huge area, so a little hard to stake your claim on it if you are trying to social distance, but overall there's plenty of space to spread out. It seemed to me like there were two areas: the area I just described, and then more river down to the left of that. This second area is much less populated, but I can see why, as it kind of quickly starts to get a pretty fishy smell as you go further and also has some animal bones (yeah...). Aside from the water, there's also lots of parking space, where many people had also set up camp (as in literally to camp in a tent for the night). We went on a Saturday (reminder that this was also in the "heat" of summer, no pun intended) so there were quite a few people. However, we were still able to stay a safe distance from others... we did have to be pretty mindful of it though, since others did not appear to be doing the same. I would give 5 stars if it (and other swimming holes in Oklahoma) had better information for people to find and clearer locations/directions!!! It's honestly pretty ridiculous. Also because that second swimming area down to the left could use a little work.

Little Blue is our favorite little hidden gem in the summer time. Beautiful! Fun! Cold! Relaxing!…read moreWe love it!!!

*** Review is during COVID-19 ***…read more It was another summer day where we were looking for something fun to do outside, had heard about this swimming hole through the grapevine, and thought we'd check it out. As usual, it was a little confusing to get there (why are the locations of places like this SO HARD to find?!?!). I think at the very last turn, our directions said to go left when we were supposed to go right, or something like that. I think maybe it was trying to take us to the canoe rental, also called/ under the name Cowskin. Kind of an interesting spot because it's near/ under a highway (or some kind of road?) bridge. Not too many people, maybe one or two bigger groups of people and then a handful more of groups of 2 or 3 people. Some of the smaller groups were really only just passing by via canoes or rafts, anyway. The river definitely has space to spread out far past the "entrance" if you want to keep plenty of distance between you and others there. The water is decently clear, and seemed pretty clean. The deeper parts of course weren't as clear because there's more water between you and the ground, but even then you can still kind of see your feet touching the bottom. That deepest part went about to my waist. There may be deeper parts than this further down, but we didn't stray too far away from the "entrance". There's a nice current as well as areas that are more still, so it's great for adapting to different water activities, depending on if you want to float away (on a boat or just on your own) or just stay in place and kind of wade around. Some places also had a little island in the middle, creating two different streams but also a place where you could hang around out of the water, other than the entrance spot. The surrounding area, from what we saw, was pretty empty. I say this to say: if you think you might make a day of it/ need food at some point, maybe bring some of your own. I could be wrong, but I really don't remember seeing ANYWHERE where you could grab anything (food or otherwise) nearby.

Roaring river is a great place! they have bathrooms electric access a Hatchery that YOU CAN SEE!!!…read moreif you love fishing it's definitely for you accessible docks and swimming area nice scenery and cheapish

Super clean! Great hike even with kids ages 3-9! The caves were cool, stream was fun as well!read more

It's an amazing place with waterfalls, a stream for fishing, and several caves. The artifacts on…read moredisplay are interesting and well done. In general, it's a very peaceful place. There is guided or self-guided fishing and guided tours via tram or self-guided tours via bike or walking. There is a restaurant on site in the mill building. There is wildlife along the way and there are herds of Bison and elk as well as some Texas longhorn cattle. The park straddles the Missouri - Arkansas boarder. It is well worth the time you spend there.

On a Monday morning in April we (I, mother and daughter) set out to cruise through the glorious…read morecanyon on wheels. Feeling a bit hesitant at first to do it on bike but it was the best feeling. It was a perfect 68, clear skies and lilac blooms along the way. The perfection was almost overwhelming. A tram is also available for a round trip adventure but the bike was just too fun to pass up. Along the way we saw all kinds of little critters, snakes, fish and birds. Stopped at the tree house, chapel and most of the waterfalls. On bike with all the stops about 2 hours, walking could easily be 3+. Bikes are $15 each and I highly recommend getting there early so you have your pick cause the good ones go fast. Some have baskets and you should get one of those and then fill it with a picnic lunch. Little under $20 per person for entry, with discounts for veterans, seniors and children. Large parking but the place is popular, so again if possible arrive early.

Beautiful trail and can't wait to come back. Restrooms were right near parking lot and there was an…read moreice cream truck which made for a sweet treat before walk. Lots of people out on trails.

I took the kids here on a sunny Saturday and the place was pretty busy but still worth visiting!…read moreThe trails were easy to hike with kids, the waterfall was beautiful, and the suspension bridge was fun! There is an old cabin ruin my kids liked exploring, too! I enjoyed all of the informational signs along the way talking about the wildlife, too!Parking was easy and there were plenty of friendly dogs we got to say hi to. I'd definitely recommend a visit and I think I'll try it again come fall to see the pretty leaves.

This was a nice break with a playground (three stories!) and walking paths as we explored Joplin…read more Cunningham Park was originally known as Cunningham Grove and was donated to the city by Thomas W. Cunningham, who was the mayor of Joplin at the time. Cunningham was a significant figure in Joplin's development, contributing to various sectors such as banking, mining, and philanthropy. In 1897, Cunningham donated eight acres of land to the city for use as a public park. The deed was officially dated on July 5, 1898, and the park was dedicated in the early 1900s1. Cunningham Park became the first park in the Joplin Parks System. Over the years, the park has seen many enhancements, including the addition of a fountain, playgrounds, a swimming pool, and picnic areas. The park was also a central location for community gatherings and celebrations1. Unfortunately, the park was destroyed by an EF-5 tornado in 2011, but the community came together to rebuild it. Today, Cunningham Park stands as a symbol of resilience and community spirit. We were here to walk around the park and to see The Miracle of The Human Spirit monument. [Review 2323 of 2024 - 392 in Missouri - 23337 overall]

Cunningham Park is a vast oasis of everything a city park should be. Sporting fields, trails, lots…read moreof playgrounds with nice equipment, water features, picnic and gathering facilities and a world class memorial garden. The Memorial garden is what caused me to visit and pay respect to those 161 Joplin residents that lost their lives to one of the worst tornadoes in American history. The garden consists of natural rock, sculptures, fountains, informational signage and a vast array of beautiful plants and flowers that are well maintained. The park was in the direct path of the tornado and offers great vantage points to see what was, what remains and what was rebuilt in the vicinity. My visit was during a slight rain shower with approaching storm clouds; which only added to the somber and reflective visit. A must see for anyone traveling in the vicinity of Joplin.

This was a great little spot that I found on my drive back from Arkansas to Tulsa. The waterfall…read moreis pretty and there are a few trails. Lots of benches, picnic tables, and even paved pathways.

Natural Falls State Park is located in West Siloam Springs, Oklahoma, 6 miles from the border with…read moreArkansas. If you're coming to Natural Falls for barbecuing, picnicking, short hiking, lounging around and camping...then this park is for you. I was scrolling through Google Maps and discovered a photo that looked intriguing. It was a picture of a 77 foot plunging waterfall among a scenic backdrop known as Ozark Springs. This Ozark Springs waterfall is the #1 top highlight at the park. The rest of the activities (I believe) are side compliments. So...if you're passing through West Siloam Springs, it could be worthwhile to check out Ozark Springs, and it doesn't take long to do. The trails map says 45 minutes, but it can be finished in less. The walk to the falls is half a mile at the most. You can find Ozark Springs along the Dripping Springs Trail. There are two parts to capturing views. First is from an overlook point high above. After completing this lookout spot, then it's 47 steps down to the bottom. The base of Ozark Falls has a boardwalk pathway leading you in front of the waterfall. I was tempted to step off the boardwalk to avoid the hand railing when taking pictures, but that wasn't not allowed. Also unfortunately, they don't permit swimming in the pool that Ozark Falls splashes into. But the waters appeared refreshing. You can connect Dripping Springs Trail with Ghost Coon Trail to combine two hikes in one. Or otherwise you can return to the Dripping Springs Trailhead and either choose another pathway or hang out, have lunch and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. There are a few other trails you can consider, but they're nothing dramatic. - Fox Den Trail - 1.5 miles to a "rock overhang and cavern area". - Bear Trail - hardly a hike but leads to Ozark Springs and intersects with Dripping Springs Trail. - Pine Ridge Trail - 3/4th's of a mile that navigates the perimeter of Natural Falls Park. It's $10 entrance fee for a day pass. You can pay at the Visitor Center. Plus inside the VC, you can purchase souvenirs from a small selection of items or buy snacks and drinks if you haven't arrived prepared. I noticed they have a lot of space for camping. Although I didn't spend a night here, the conditions for sleeping outdoors looked inviting. Btw...while walking along Ghost Coon Trail, I passed by these Yurts, or I'd describe them as huts accommodative for "glamping" or glorified camping. It's like upscale camping staying in tent - cabins. There may have been 5 - 6 yurts located beside the grass edge of the forest and pleasant looking for enjoying the great outdoors. Overall, Natural Falls State Park has a quiet setting and is fine for taking a few hours to breathe in fresh air, especially if you're in no hurry. Although I wanted more challenging hiking trails and activities to keep me occupied, I was okay with taking a lazy day to appreciate nature.

Great sites. Full hookups available but limited at times so call ahead. Plenty of spots right on…read moreLittle Sugar Creek (without hookups but some electricity access), which is a great float and great fishing (small mouth bass primarily). Well kept up and they just opened a FANTASTIC restaurant right down the street with PERFECT "after-float" food and libations! Also, manager has shuttle opportunities he can refer you to. Must consider for a relaxing weekend or few day respite!!

great family campground, new cabin overlooking the creek is beautiful and peaceful sitting on the…read moredeck overlooking the water...great value also.

Lame. Uninpressive. Ran down. Crummy part of town. Photos are not accurate. The castle area is…read morein need of paint and it's just old and looks bad. There wasn't too much nice and was really let down after reading the good reviews. Wouldn't recommend.

Beautiful park! Great playgrounds, fairy garden and castle, tennis courts, gazebos, walking trails,…read morefountains, swings, and even a city pool. Lots of trees and shade and near downtown. Some areas currently under construction.

Horsebarn Park is located in Rogers, AR which blends into Bentonville…read more This gorgeous place was not far from our hotel. We had time to kill before we could checkin, so the first place all my girls ventured towards was the creek. Osage Creek, a brisk walk from our parking spot, had water snakes, fish, and small black crayfish - yet none of this bothered my kids or our dog. It was so dang hot on July 24, 2025 that the kids walked barefoot in the creek and the dog plopped down on her belly for a break. Lol. A walking path, public restrooms, and playground were nearby. Free parking. Trash free. The only thing that caught us off guard was when an unleashed dog rushed over to my leashed canine. The owner was slow to respond yet apologetic. Huge fan.

Wonderful park connected to the trails with restrooms and water fountains. There is a stream for…read morepets and kids to cool off and of course a playground.