20 Attractions to Explore Near Piney Creek Wilderness

Kings River is the epitome of Midwest beauty. With crystal clear waters weaving through lush trees and towering bluffs, it's a nature lover's paradise. But let's be real, it's also the perfect spot to escape the summer heat and cool off with some thrilling kayaking or tubing. And if that's not your thing, you can always kick back and enjoy a lazy day of fishing in these bountiful waters.

The Historic Y Bridge, is a unique and historic landmark that attracts visitors from all over the region. Built in 1930, the Y Bridge is a concrete and steel truss bridge that spans the James River and is shaped like the letter "Y". The bridge was originally built to provide a link between the towns of Galena and Reeds Spring, and it was a crucial transportation route in the region.The Y Bridge is unique because it has two lanes that cross the river twice, forming a "Y" shape.

The Kimberling City Bridge is a notable landmark located in Stone County, Missouri. It is a suspension bridge that spans the Long Creek Arm of Table Rock Lake and connects the cities of Kimberling City and Cape Fair. The bridge is approximately 1,900 feet long and stands at a height of 80 feet above the water.The Kimberling City Bridge was built in 1983 to replace an older bridge that was no longer functional.

This natural wonder is truly a hidden gem, well worth the visit. The jaw-dropping rock formations will leave you speechless, and the knowledgeable tour guides will have you laughing and learning at the same time. Not only is the cavern an underground wonder, but it also has its own gift shop filled with quirky souvenirs that will surely make your friends jealous. So, if you're looking for an adventure that's both informative and entertaining, Talking Rocks Cavern is the place to be.

The crystal-clear water gushes out of the ground at an impressive rate, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. But, let me be honest with you, it's not just the spring that makes this place special. The scenic beauty of the surrounding area is a treat for sore eyes, and the fresh air is a blessing for city dwellers like me. Plus, there's just something about Missouri that makes people friendly and hospitable.

Nestled in the heart of the Ozarks lies a gem of a state park - Roaring River State Park in Missouri's Barry County. As soon as you step onto the grounds, you'll be surrounded by lush greenery, sparkling streams, and stunning limestone bluffs. The park has a diverse range of activities to offer, from trout fishing to hiking to scenic drives. The campgrounds are well-maintained and spacious, with plenty of amenities to make your stay comfortable.

The American Plunge located in Stone County, Missouri is a hidden gem for anyone looking for an adventure. This thrilling natural water slide promises a ride that will make your heart race and put a smile on your face. But let's be honest, asking someone to slide down a rocky waterfall might sound like a bad idea, but don't let that scare you away. It's like a roller coaster, just exchange the tracks for rocks and the steel cart for a swimsuit.

Outlaw Run is a roller coaster located in Stone County, that will have you questioning whether you're still "in the Midwest" or have somehow been transported to the Wild West. This wooden coaster, built by the renowned manufacturer RMC, is a force to be reckoned with as it hurtles riders through twists, turns, and jaw-dropping drops. What sets Outlaw Run apart from other coasters is its innovative design that merges traditional wooden coaster elements with modern technology.

Fire in the Hole is a high-energy novel set in rural Stone County. It follows the exploits of former U.S. Marshal Raylan Givens as he navigates the complex criminal underworld of his hometown. Jam-packed with action, humor, and thrilling shootouts, this book is an absolute page-turner. Givens is a fascinating character, with a wry sense of humor and a deep sense of justice. The villains he encounters are equally compelling, from ruthless career criminals to hapless small-time crooks.

The Giant Barn Swing is a thrilling and unique attraction located in Stone County, Missouri. It is a giant wooden swing that hangs from the top of a barn, providing riders with breathtaking views of the Ozark Mountains and Table Rock Lake. The swing can hold up to four riders at a time and reaches heights of up to 230 feet.The Giant Barn Swing was built by an Amish craftsman and is made entirely of wood, giving it a rustic charm.

Marvel Cave,is a natural wonder that offers both excitement and education. As you descend the steep stairs into the depths of the cave, you can't help but feel a sense of awe and curiosity for what lies ahead. And let me tell you, it's worth the journey! From towering stalactites to underground streams and even a chilly underground lake, there's plenty to see and learn about on the guided tour. The cave also offers adrenaline-pumping activities like rappelling and ziplining.

Mystic River Falls is a thrilling water attraction located in Stone County. It is the centerpiece of the new Mystic River section of Silver Dollar City, a popular theme park in the region. Mystic River Falls is an innovative water ride that combines elements of a traditional log flume with modern attractions such as waterfalls, music, and projection mapping.The ride begins with a winding ascent to the top of a tower, which provides riders with stunning views of the surrounding Ozark Mountains.

Marvel Cave is a fascinating natural wonder located in Stone County. Discovered in 1869, the cave system has been a popular destination for tourists and adventurers alike.The cave system boasts an impressive depth of 500 feet and features a variety of geological formations, including stalactites, stalagmites, and columns. The largest room in the cave, known as the Cathedral Room, is over 200 feet high and 500 feet long, making it one of the largest cave rooms in the United States.

The Frisco Silver Dollar Line is a popular attraction in Stone County. This historic train ride takes visitors on a journey through the picturesque countryside, offering stunning views of the Ozark Mountains.This Line is named after the St. Louis-San Francisco Railway that operated in the region during the early 1900s. The train is a replica of the steam locomotives that were used during that time period and is made up of vintage rail cars that have been restored for modern use.

If you're looking for a fun family adventure, Silver Dollar City in Stone County, Missouri, is the place to be. This amusement park has roots dating back to the 1880s, which means it's had plenty of time to perfect the art of entertainment. From the classic steam-powered trains that chug through the park to the thrill rides that are sure to raise your heart rate, there's something for everyone at Silver Dollar City. But what's really noteworthy is the park's attention to detail.

The Grand Exposition Coaster, is a thrilling roller coaster that offers an exciting ride for visitors of all ages. The coaster is part of the Grand Exposition, a theme park that features a variety of attractions, including carnival games, a Ferris wheel, and other rides.The Grand Exposition Coaster has a unique design that resembles an old-fashioned wooden roller coaster. However, it is actually made of steel and features state-of-the-art technology to enhance the ride experience.

The Magnificent Wave Carousel is an impressive attraction located in Stone County, Missouri. It is a beautifully designed carousel that offers visitors a thrilling ride on intricately carved and painted horses.The carousel is unique in its design, with waves instead of the traditional platform as its base, giving riders the sensation of riding on a cresting wave. The carousel features a total of 33 horses, each one hand-carved and hand-painted with intricate details and vibrant colors.

Indian Point Park is a picturesque park located in Stone County, Missouri. The park is situated on the banks of Table Rock Lake and offers stunning views of the surrounding Ozark Mountains. It covers an area of approximately 85 acres and is home to a variety of recreational activities.One of the most popular activities at Indian Point Park is fishing. The park has a large fishing dock that is accessible to anglers of all skill levels.

The Butterfly Palace & Rainforest Adventure is a unique and immersive attraction located in Taney County. It is a tropical paradise that showcases thousands of different species of butterflies, exotic birds, reptiles, and other rainforest creatures.The attraction spans over 7,000 square feet and is designed to resemble a lush rainforest ecosystem. The highlight of the Butterfly Palace is its Butterfly Aviary - a vast indoor garden filled with fluttering butterflies from all over the world.

Castle Rogue's Manor, located in Eureka Springs, Arkansas, is a distinctive and enchanting destination that transports visitors to a world of medieval-inspired grandeur and Old World charm. This magnificent castle-like estate, nestled in the heart of the Ozark Mountains, offers a unique combination of architecture, luxury accommodations, and breathtaking views.