A panoramic view of the Meramec River is a great introduction to Crawford County’s natural side: Vilander Bluff Natural Area offers this river vista. The county also has protected areas featuring rocky bluffs, caves, wooded hills, and distinctive habitats. Hiking trails lead through varied landscapes, while a historic mill and the remains of an ironworks add a glimpse of the area’s industrial past.
River Landscapes and Protected Areas
At Meramec Conservation Area, steep rocky bluffs along the Meramec River form the western boundary and offer views of the river valley and surrounding hills. The area has trails for hiking, horseback riding, and biking. Its natural features also include six caves and a colony of great egrets. In Meramec Mosaic, a section of the Meramec River is designated an Outstanding State Resource Water.
Huzzah Conservation Area covers 6,225 acres in Crawford County. The Ozark Trail crosses most of the area, giving hikers access to numerous distinctive landscape features. White River Trace Conservation Area has high-quality upland wildlife habitat, particularly for northern bobwhite and grassland bird species such as grasshopper sparrows and dickcissels.
Trails, Hills, and Caves
Crooked Creek Conservation Area lies on the edge of an impact crater formed by a meteorite thousands of years ago. A short, straight out-and-back trail runs through hills of oak-hickory forest and shortleaf pine. The landscape and trail layout give this area its own character.
A different trail experience awaits on the 1.3-mile Natural Wonders hiking loop: located near the visitor center, it provides access to the northern part of Meramec Mosaic Natural Area. For access details, contact park staff. Onondaga Cave is another notable natural site: designated a National Natural Landmark, it offers guided tours led by trained guides.
Mills, Ironworks, and Local History
Dillard Mill State Historic Site tells the story of one of the state’s best-preserved grist mills. The mill was completed in 1908, and most of its original machinery remains. Tours are offered year-round, but weekdays and times vary by season. Check the seasonal schedule before your visit.
The remains of Scotia Furnace and Iron Works are located in Huzzah Conservation Area. Scotia Furnace produced pig iron from 1870 to 1880. Here, trails and natural features share the protected area with traces of iron production.
In Cuba, 15 outdoor murals along the Route 66 corridor depict scenes from local and national history. The number may change as artworks are added or removed. The Crawford County Historical Society Museum displays artifacts from Indigenous communities, historical fashions, military exhibits, and cultural objects from the region across three floors. When open seasonally, you can tour the museum on your own or join a tour with volunteers.
Getting Around the County
Crawford County is accessible via Interstate 44 and Missouri Highways 19, 49, and 8. In the county’s northwest, Mint Spring Access provides public access to the Bourbeuse River.
Explore more destinations: Cuba, Bourbon, Vernon County, Moniteau County, Miller County, Warren County, Lawrence County, Phelps.
For the main travel overview: Missouri.
