Three springs, steep wooded slopes, and exposed karst rock give Christian County a distinctive character. Explore the landscape from different perspectives on trails, along the river, and through historic sites. You can combine nature and culture according to your own interests.
Karst and trails through the landscape
Steep wooded slopes and exposed rock formations shape the landscape at Garrison Springs Community Forest. Karst features, Garrison Branch creek, and three springs add to the scenery. The forest reveals a natural side of the county that stands apart from its historic sites and riverside recreation.
Busiek State Forest and Wildlife Area offers more than 18 miles of well-marked trails for hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and birdwatching. The trail network is divided into a 10-mile East Trail and an 8-mile West Trail. Both include several color-coded loops ranging from 2 to 4 miles long. These shorter loops are part of a larger trail network; check trail conditions before you go. Busiek State Forest is also home to historic Carter Cemetery. Established in 1891, it is no longer active and has 29 documented graves.
Two Rivers Mountain Bike Park lies at the confluence of the Finley and James rivers. Its 380 acres of Ozark landscape include more than 14 miles of purpose-built multi-use trails for mountain bikers, runners, and hikers. The Chadwick Flyer Trail, by contrast, follows the former route of the Chadwick Flyer railroad from Ozark to Springfield. Because route details may change as the project progresses, check the current route before setting out.
Along the river and in nature
The Finley River forms a scenic connection to the James River watershed. Quieter stretches of river and opportunities to explore the Ozarks are part of the landscape. At Finley River Park, you’ll find walking paths, picnic areas, and playgrounds, as well as river access for kayaking and fishing. The park offers activities ranging from a stroll to time on the water.
At Mountain Springs Trout Park, you can fish and keep your catch or release it. A fishing license is not required there; confirm the current rules with the park before you arrive. For motorized outings, Chadwick Motorcycle and ATV Use Area offers a different trail network: it is open to motorcycles, ATVs, and UTVs, with 80 miles of trails ranging from easy to challenging. Check operating rules and any closures with the U.S. Forest Service before you ride.
Explore history and culture
Ozark Mill at Finley Farms was originally built in 1833. A self-guided tour includes working machinery, educational videos, and theatrical projections. At Finley Farms, you can also walk across the historic Riverside Bridge and look down at the Finley River. The Workshop at Finley Farms hosts hands-on educational classes; offerings may vary.
Wilson’s Creek history also shapes the county’s landmarks. Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield spans Christian and Greene counties in Missouri and commemorates the Battle of Wilson’s Creek. Ray House is the only surviving residence from the battle. On March 8, 2018, Smallin Civil War Cave was listed as a historic district on the National Register of Historic Places.
Christian County Museum in Ozark features exhibits on early industry, education, the Great Depression, local law enforcement, and notable Ozarks figures; exhibit layouts may change. Finley River Art Gallery showcases art by artists from southwest Missouri and offers seasonal classes in watercolor painting, basket weaving, and palette knife painting. The schedule and artists may change, so check the gallery’s current information. Stained Glass Theatre in Ozark presents faith-based performances in a welcoming, family-friendly setting.
Ozark Craft Fair at Finley River Park has been a community fixture since 1973. For a different kind of experience, National Tiger Sanctuary offers a 45-minute Awareness Tour led by a guide along a 0.25-mile trail. Visitors can meet approximately 15 to 20 big cats. The number of animals visitors see varies because they move between habitats. The guided tours also provide information about animal care, conservation, and ecology.
Discover more destinations: Ozark, Nixa, Barton County, St. Charles, Butler County, Bates County, Marion County, Moniteau County.
For the main travel overview: Missouri.
