MO Magic: Explore the Best Missouri Ozarks Campgrounds for Any Budget Some states are hidden gems. Missouri is a hidden goldmine. The Show-Me State is home to gigantic springs, crystal-clear rivers, and mighty mountains spread across an astoundingly beautiful landscape of vibrant greens and blues. Once you visit, you’ll fall in love. I’m here to help you get started planning your trip, so strap in and get ready to take a tour of some stellar Missouri campgrounds just waiting to be d...
People drive hundreds of miles to visit a good waterfall. Each state boasts its own famous falls that draw in outdoor adventurers like moths to a flame, with some of the most prestigious receiving millions of tourists each year. Unfortunately, excessive visitation can pose some issues. Waterfalls get crowded and decidedly un-magical. Parking areas and trails are overrun with trash, and once-pristine locations become loud and dirty. Want to avoid all that? Get off the beaten path. &nb...
Best Free RV Campgrounds in the Buffalo National River Area Want to do the Buffalo on a budget? You’ve come to the right place. There are plenty of campgrounds on the Buffalo River, but many are costly or inaccessible with an RV. Finding beautiful free campsites where you can safely bring your rig can be tricky, especially without local knowledge. Luckily, I’ve got you covered. Read on for a complete guide to the best free RV campgrounds in the Buffalo National River area, incl...
Hemmed-In Hollow Falls: Your Ozark Hike for Stunning Springtime Views Spring has officially sprung. The wildflowers are blooming, the birds are chirping, and the rain is coming down in buckets. Here in the Ozarks, spring rains signify an important time for outdoor enthusiasts. That’s right, folks— it’s waterfall season. There’s nowhere better to see the waterworks than Hemmed-In Hollow Falls. Measuring 209 feet high, this is the tallest waterfall between the Rockies and the App...
The Ozark Mountains are pure paradise for the outdoorsman. Old-growth forests, seeping springs, and high waterfalls ignite our passion. We want to go deeper here, to get dirty and bruised. Yet for many, exploring the heart of these mountains is nearly impossible. Pockmarked with massive cave systems and high rock bluffs, these hills hold secrets that most people will never see. Exploring the deepest parts of the Ozarks is an incredibly difficult and dangerous undertaking. Sinkholes, rockfa...
The Buffalo National River Wilderness is one of the most popular hiking areas in the Ozarks. High bluffs and spectacular rock formations draw in visitors no matter the season, but autumn is an especially great time to go. Many trails that are congested with overgrowth in the spring and summer open up nicely in the fall. And since the foliage along cliffside paths thins out this time of year, you can see spectacular mountain vistas while the colors are changing. Here are the 3 best fall hik...
Canoe camping is a favorite pastime here in the Ozarks. Our pristine waterways offer an oasis on hot summer days, but planning a floating trip can get complicated if you’ve never done it before. Luckily, I’m here to help with a breakdown of everything you need to know to plan a successful float. Here are my top 5 tips to plan your canoe camping trip: Choose An Appropriate Float Consider Logistics Bring the Right Supplies Pack Your Craft Wisely Have a Backup Plan There’s a lot more that goe...
Ready to hit the great outdoors? The Ozarks are calling your name. But planning a trip can get expensive, and you don’t want your fun to break the bank. Luckily, this region has plenty of cheap and free campgrounds to enjoy. If that sounds like your cup of tea, check out my favorite spots for all the adventure you crave at a fraction of the price. The top 5 budget-friendly campgrounds in the Ozarks are: Erbie Campground Sam’s Throne Campground Gunner Pool Campground South Maumee Camp...
In 2024, the founder of Camping Tools, Robert, posted a story about why he created Camping Tools . He shared some lovely stories about his love for the outdoors and how that love was passed down to him from his father and how he then passed it down to his sons. Reading this story made me reflect on my own relationship with the outdoors and the connection to my family. So, that’s what I am going to share here. The History Now that I am in my 30s, my memories from my childhood feel a bit clo...
Planning a camping trip can be a thrilling experience, but when you’re preparing for an entire year’s worth of outdoor adventures, it’s essential to get organized. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or just starting out, a month-by-month plan can help ensure that you’re making the most of every season and exploring new destinations along the way. Here’s a helpful guide to planning your 2025 camping trips, ensuring you get the best of each month’s outdoor opportunities. January – Winter Wonderland ...
A new year is the perfect time to set goals, and for camping enthusiasts, it’s a chance to plan exciting outdoor adventures. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or just starting, setting specific resolutions can help you explore more, try new activities, and challenge yourself. Here are five camping goals to kickstart your 2025 adventures. 1. Try a New Type of Camping Switch up your usual camping routine by trying a new style of camping. If you're used to car camping, consider backpacking for a mor...
In the ever-evolving landscape of work, the open road calls not just to the wanderlust in us but also to our entrepreneurial spirit. The concept of the mobile office is no longer a distant dream but a tangible reality for many. For RV enthusiasts, combining the freedom of the road with the necessity of work presents a unique set of opportunities and challenges. Here's how to seamlessly integrate your professional life into your RV adventures, ensuring productivity and pleasure go hand in hand. E...
Winter camping is an incredibly peaceful way to connect with nature, offering a serene escape from the chaos of everyday life. While December might seem like an unlikely time for camping, it actually provides a magical opportunity to experience the outdoors in a way that few others can. The crisp air, snow-dusted landscapes, and quieter campgrounds make for a cozy and unforgettable winter getaway. If you're considering a winter camping trip this December, here are some top destinations that will...
