14 Fun And Free Things To Do Outside Kansas City

Are you looking for some fun and free activities to do outside of Kansas City? Look no further! Here are 14 fun and free things to do outside of Kansas City. From exploring nature trails to visiting historic sites, these activities are sure to offer a unique and exciting experience for you and your family. So get ready to explore and make some great memories!

Clinton State Park

Camping is the most popular activity at Clinton State Park. With over 200 campsites, there is something for everyone. From primitive sites, to full hook-up sites, and even equestrian sites, you can find a spot to set up camp for the night. The campground is open all year round and has a variety of amenities, including bathrooms and showers, a playground, and picnic areas.

Fishing is another popular activity at the park. Clinton Lake is stocked with several types of fish, including bass, catfish, bluegill, and crappie. The fishing pier is a great spot to relax and catch the fish of your dreams. Visitors can also rent a boat or kayak to explore the lake and get a better view of the surrounding scenery.

Hiking is a great way to explore the park. There are several trails that take visitors through the rolling hills and forests of the park. Whether you are looking for a leisurely stroll or a more challenging hike, there is something for everyone. Be sure to keep an eye out for the wildlife that inhabits the park, including deer, foxes, and wild turkeys.

Weston Bend State Park

If you’re looking for a chance to get outside and explore nature, Weston Bend State Park is the perfect place to do it. The park offers over eight miles of trails that wind through the park, providing a chance to take in the beauty of the area. The trails range from easy to moderate, and they offer a great way to explore the area. Along the trails, visitors can find a variety of wildlife, including white-tailed deer, foxes, and a variety of birds.

Fishing is another popular activity in Weston Bend State Park. The park is home to a variety of fish, including bass, crappie, catfish, and more. Anglers can cast their lines from the shore or take a boat out on the Missouri River. Boats are available for rent, and there are plenty of places to launch a boat or find a spot to fish from the shore.

If you’re looking for a chance to relax, Weston Bend State Park is the perfect place to do it. There are plenty of places to set up a tent and enjoy the views of the river. There’s also a swimming beach, picnic area, and campground located at the park, so you can easily make a day of it.

For those looking for an educational experience, Weston Bend State Park also offers a variety of programs. The park hosts educational talks, guided hikes, and special events throughout the year. These events provide an opportunity to learn more about the area and its history.

Whether you’re looking for a chance to get active outdoors or just relax and take in the views, Weston Bend State Park is the perfect place to explore near Kansas City. With its abundance of activities and breathtaking views, it’s one of the best places to spend a day in the great outdoors. So, if you’re looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, Weston Bend State Park is the perfect place to do it.

Rock Bridge Memorial State Park

Characteristic	Description
Name	Rock Bridge Memorial State Park
Type	State park in Boone County, Missouri
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.8 / 1,370
Address	5901 South Highway 163, Columbia, MO 65203
Phone	(573) 449-7402
Profiles

The park is home to natural limestone bridges that give the park its name, as well as a variety of trails and caves. For hikers, the park offers a variety of trails that vary in difficulty, from easy to difficult. The trails are well-maintained and provide visitors with stunning views of the park’s many natural features. There are also many caves in the park, which are great spots for exploring and taking in the sights.

One of the park’s most popular attractions is the Devil’s Icebox Cave, a unique cave system that features some of the most spectacular limestone formations in the Midwest. The cave is home to a variety of wildlife such as bats and salamanders, and visitors can take a guided tour to learn more about the cave’s history and natural features.

In addition to the trails and caves, Rock Bridge Memorial State Park also features a number of picnic areas and campgrounds. The campgrounds are a great spot to spend the night under the stars, and the picnic areas are perfect for taking a break from a day of exploring the park. Visitors can also take part in a number of activities, such as fishing, bird watching, and horseback riding.

Thousand Hills State Park

One of the most popular activities at Thousand Hills State Park is camping. There are several campgrounds located throughout the park, each with its own unique features. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful getaway in the woods or the perfect spot for your next family reunion, you’ll find the perfect campground at Thousand Hills State Park.

Fishing is another popular activity at Thousand Hills State Park. The park is home to several lakes, streams, and ponds with plenty of opportunities to catch a variety of fish. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert angler, you’ll find the perfect spot to cast your line at Thousand Hills State Park.

Hiking is another great way to explore the park. With miles of trails winding through the park, you’ll find something to suit any level of hiker. From easy strolls through the woods to challenging climbs up the rocky hills, you’re sure to find something that will keep you entertained.

In addition to the activities mentioned above, Thousand Hills State Park also offers plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing. With an abundance of local wildlife, you’ll find plenty to see, from birds of prey to small mammals. The park also offers several guided nature walks so visitors can learn more about the local flora and fauna.

If you’re looking for something a little more adventurous, Thousand Hills State Park is home to a variety of other activities. From horseback riding to canoeing and kayaking, you’ll find something to suit any level of adventurer.

No matter what your interests are, Thousand Hills State Park has something for everyone. With its stunning scenery and abundance of activities, it’s the perfect destination for anyone looking to get away from it all and explore the outdoors near Kansas City.

Lake of the Ozarks State Park

Visitors can spend the day fishing, boating or swimming in the lake’s clear waters. For the more adventurous, the park offers numerous trails for hiking, biking, horses and ATVs. There are also plenty of places to camp and picnic. The lake is especially popular for its plentiful bass fishing. Anglers can catch largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, spotted bass, crappie, bluegill, catfish and sauger.

Those looking for a more relaxing experience can take in the stunning views of the park’s many cliffs and bluffs. There are also many areas to explore the nearby caves, which were formed from the area’s limestone bedrock. Birdwatchers will be delighted by the park’s abundance of migratory waterfowl and other feathered creatures.

The park also contains a handful of historical sites, such as the Grand Glaize Indian Village, where visitors can learn about the area’s Native American history. There are also several 19th century towns, a few of which have been preserved and are open to the public.

For those looking to spend a few days in the park, there are plenty of lodging options. From rustic cabins to luxury resorts, there is something to fit every budget. There are also many restaurants and bars in the area, offering a variety of cuisines.

Mark Twain National Forest

For those looking to escape the city and enjoy some camping, Mark Twain National Forest is the perfect spot. There are several campgrounds located in the area, including Cottonwood Campground, Big Sugar Creek, and Mark Twain Lake. These areas offer picturesque views, plenty of space to explore, and plenty of opportunities for fishing, canoeing, and swimming.

For hikers, there are several trails located throughout the forest, ranging from easy to difficult. One of the most popular trails is the Ozark Trail, which is a continuous hiking trail spanning nearly 400 miles from St. Louis to the Arkansas border. Other popular trails include the Indian Creek Trail, Trace Creek Trail, and the Bear Creek Trail.

Nature lovers will find plenty to explore in Mark Twain National Forest, from the beautiful rivers and creeks to the diverse array of wildlife. Common animals seen in the area include deer, foxes, raccoons, and even the occasional black bear. Birdwatchers will be delighted by the wide variety of birds, from majestic raptors to colorful songbirds.

If you’re looking for something a little more off the beaten path, why not try your hand at geocaching? Geocaching is a great way to explore the forest’s hidden gems and uncover hidden caches full of treasure.

No visit to Mark Twain National Forest would be complete without a visit to Mark Twain Lake. The lake is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and swimming, and features a variety of trails and areas to explore.

Finally, if you’re looking to add a touch of culture to your trip, stop by the Mark Twain Museum in Hannibal. The museum houses a wide variety of artifacts and memorabilia from the life and works of Mark Twain.

Ha Ha Tonka State Park

For those looking for a relaxing outdoor experience, Ha Ha Tonka State Park is ideal. The park has a variety of trails, from easy to moderate, that offer stunning views of the lake, bluffs, and wooded areas. The trails range from a half mile to seven miles in length, making them perfect for a short hike or an all-day adventure. The park also has several picnic areas with grills and pavilions that make for a great lunchtime spot.

For those looking for a more active experience, Ha Ha Tonka State Park offers several biking trails. The trails are mostly flat and easy to navigate, making them ideal for all levels of riders. There are also several miles of multi-use trails, which are great for mountain biking. The park also has a boat ramp and marina, providing easy access to the lake for fishing or just enjoying the scenery.

For those looking for a unique experience, Ha Ha Tonka State Park has a few unique attractions. The park is home to the Ha Ha Tonka Spring, where visitors can take a tour of the historic springs and learn the history of the park. The park also has several caves, including the Devil’s Icebox Cave and the Devil’s Kitchen Cave. The caves are open from April through October and offer visitors a chance to explore the underground world.

Squaw Creek National Wildlife Refuge

For birdwatchers, the refuge is a prime spot for observing a variety of birds including bald eagles, pelicans, and great blue herons. The refuge also boasts one of the largest concentrations of snow geese in the Midwest. During the winter months, visitors can spot snow geese in their thousands as they migrate to the refuge. During the summer months, visitors can also observe a host of other species including bluebirds, warblers, and shorebirds.

Fishermen can take advantage of the refuge’s ample fishing opportunities. Squaw Creek National Wildlife Refuge is home to a variety of fish including bass, catfish, walleye, and crappie. The refuge also offers a variety of lakes and ponds that are open to fishing year-round.

For those looking to explore the refuge’s natural beauty, there are a variety of trails available for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The refuge also offers a variety of scenic overlooks and wildlife observation blinds that provide visitors with an up-close view of the refuge’s diverse wildlife.

Visitors looking to learn more about the refuge can take advantage of the refuge’s educational programs. The refuge offers a variety of programs such as guided tours, educational programs, and nature walks. These programs provide visitors with an opportunity to learn more about the refuge’s unique ecosystem and the wildlife that inhabit it.

Table Rock State Park

The park is home to two lakes, Table Rock Lake and Lake Taneycomo, and is a great place to spend the day swimming, fishing, and boating. Table Rock Lake is a great spot for fishing, with bass, bluegill, and catfish all found in the lake. You can also rent canoes and kayaks, making it a great spot for a day on the lake.

Hiking is also popular in the park, with trails ranging from easy to difficult. The trails offer stunning views of the lakes, as well as the forests and wildlife in the area. For those looking for a more challenging hike, the park offers a variety of trails ranging from three to seven miles.

Camping is also available at Table Rock State Park. The park offers a variety of campgrounds, all equipped with amenities such as fire pits, picnic tables, and restrooms. Camping is a great way to spend a weekend outdoors and enjoy the beauty of the park.

The park also offers a variety of educational programs, such as bird watching and nature walks. These programs are great for families, as they teach kids about the environment and the wildlife in the park.

Lewis and Clark State Park

The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, bald eagles, and wild turkeys. Nature lovers can take advantage of the park's many nature trails and observation points. For the more adventurous, there are also mountain biking trails and challenging rock climbing routes.

For those looking for a more leisurely outdoor experience, Lewis and Clark State Park has plenty of activities to offer. Fishers can take advantage of the park's many fishing holes, and boaters can explore the park's lake, stream, and swamp. The park also has two beaches and a swimming area, perfect for a day at the lake.

If you're looking for a bit of history, there are plenty of sites to explore. The park is home to an ancient Native American village and the remains of a French fur trading post. Visitors can also explore the park's many mounds and burial sites, which are believed to date back thousands of years.

The park is open year-round, so visitors can enjoy its beauty any time of the year. During the summer months, campsites are available for rent, and in the fall, the park is a great place to take in the changing colors of the leaves.

No matter what time of year you visit, a trip to Lewis and Clark State Park is sure to be an unforgettable experience. Whether you're looking for a day of hiking, fishing, or exploring the area's history, this park has something for everyone. And with its proximity to Kansas City, it's the perfect destination for a day trip or weekend getaway.

Onondaga Cave State Park

One of the most popular activities at the park is the guided cave tours. These tours take visitors deep into the dark depths of the Onondaga Cave, allowing them to explore an underground wonderland. The 90-minute tour includes a variety of unique features, such as a 120-foot waterfall, stalagmites and stalactites, and a variety of interesting fossils. The tour also offers a chance to learn more about the history of the cave and the area.

Hiking is another great way to explore the park. Onondaga Cave State Park offers a number of trails, ranging from easy to challenging. For those looking for a more challenging adventure, the Onondaga Trail is a 3.5 mile long trail that leads to a scenic overlook of the park. The trail is relatively easy to follow, but visitors should be sure to bring plenty of water, as the trail can be quite strenuous.

Nature enthusiasts will also love the variety of wildlife that can be found at the park. From bald eagles and ospreys to deer and wild turkeys, there is something for everyone to appreciate. The park also offers a variety of bird watching opportunities, as well as a butterfly garden, which is home to a variety of colorful and beautiful butterflies.

Big Lake State Park

The park also features several scenic trails, ranging from easy hikes to more challenging treks. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely walk through the woods or a more strenuous hike to the top of one of the park’s peaks, you’ll find something to suit your needs. The trails are well-marked and provide plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing, so be sure to bring your binoculars and camera.

One of the most popular activities at Big Lake State Park is fishing. With its well-stocked lakes and streams, anglers are sure to find plenty of bass, trout, and catfish. Be sure to bring all the necessary gear, including a fishing license, bait, and tackle. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even rent a boat or canoe and explore the park’s many waterways.

Hunting is also a popular activity at Big Lake State Park. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, turkey, and waterfowl. Hunters must obtain a valid hunting license and adhere to all applicable state and federal regulations.

In addition to outdoor activities, Big Lake State Park also offers a wide array of educational programs and events. From ranger-led hikes to astronomy programs and bird watching workshops, there is something for everyone. The park also hosts special events, such as holiday celebrations and nature walks.

Whether you’re looking for a weekend of adventure or a peaceful escape into nature, Big Lake State Park is sure to have something for you. With its abundance of outdoor activities, educational programs, and special events, it’s the perfect destination for a weekend getaway. So grab your gear and head to Big Lake State Park for an unforgettable experience. As local resident, Walt Whitman, once said, “We all need to go away and come back, to know where we belong.”

Grand Falls Park

One of the park’s most popular attractions is its naturally occurring, spectacular waterfalls. Grand Falls Park is home to two of the highest waterfalls in the state of Missouri, and visitors can easily get up close and personal with the breathtaking cascades. In addition, the park also has several other smaller falls that are great for taking pictures and getting an up-close experience with the rushing water.

Fishing is also a popular activity in Grand Falls Park. The park is home to several fishing spots, including a pond and several streams. All visitors are required to possess a valid fishing license before fishing in the park, and those looking to catch a big one can even rent a boat to explore the larger areas of the lake.

The park has many other outdoor activities available as well. Hiking, camping, and bird watching are all popular in the park, as are kayaking and canoeing in the lake. The park also features several playgrounds, picnic areas, and even a petting zoo.

For those looking for an educational experience, the park also offers several ranger-led programs and activities. These programs provide an in-depth look into the natural wonders of Grand Falls Park, and visitors can learn about the history, geology, plant life, and wildlife of the area.

No matter what you’re looking for, Grand Falls Park has something for everyone. From its beautiful waterfalls to its plentiful activities, it’s the perfect place to explore the great outdoors and create lasting memories.

Bennett Spring State Park

Fishing is one of the park’s most popular activities. The park’s spring-fed streams are home to an abundance of rainbow trout, making it an ideal spot for fishing enthusiasts. Anglers can cast a line from the shoreline or rent a boat to explore the depths of the streams. Bennett Spring State Park is stocked with thousands of trout each year, giving fishermen the chance to catch a trophy-sized fish.

Hiking is another popular activity at Bennett Spring State Park. The park offers over 10 miles of trails, ranging from easy to strenuous. The trails are well-maintained and provide visitors with breathtaking views of the park’s natural beauty. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a more challenging hike, Bennett Spring State Park has a trail for every level of hiker.

The park also offers a variety of camping options. There are over 200 campsites for both RV and tent camping. The campgrounds are equipped with modern amenities such as running water, electric hookups, and bathrooms. Campers can also enjoy a variety of activities such as fishing, swimming, and boating.

Whether you’re looking for a day trip or a weekend getaway, Bennett Spring State Park offers something for everyone. With its abundance of outdoor activities, stunning natural beauty, and diverse wildlife, Bennett Spring State Park is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.

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