Get outside
Things to do
Old-growth bottomland forest, a fortified Mississippian town, waterfowl wetlands, and a ferry across the Mississippi — plus places to eat, shop, and stay.
Parks & Historic Sites
Old-growth bottomland forest, a fortified Mississippian town, and wetlands full of waterfowl.
Big Oak Tree State Park
About 1,029 acres of rare, untouched bottomland hardwood forest standing in a sea of drained cropland, set aside in 1938 to protect some of the biggest trees in the state and the nation. Several state and national champion trees grow here, including a swamp chestnut oak about 156 feet tall. Walk the accessible boardwalk trail past the interpretive center, or the park’s second trail. It’s a National Natural Landmark.
Towosahgy State Historic Site
A fortified Mississippian town and ceremonial center, lived in between about A.D. 1000 and 1400, with an earlier Woodland village beneath it. Grassy trails and signs mark the fortification wall, the plaza, and the temple mound, the largest of the mounds that remain. Towosahgy is an Osage word meaning “old town.”
Ten Mile Pond Conservation Area
About 3,760 acres of wetlands managed for ducks and geese, with bald eagles common from late fall through early spring. Parts of the area close to protect waterfowl from October 15 through March 31. From East Prairie, take Highway 80 east and County Road 515 south 5 miles to the tee; headquarters is 300 yards to the left. Open daily 4 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Dorena–Hickman Ferry
A car ferry across the Mississippi between Dorena and Hickman, Kentucky, one of the few ways across the river between Cairo and Caruthersville. In summer the last run leaves Missouri at 6:30 p.m., and in winter at 4:30 p.m. It’s cash only and often closes for high or low water, so call or check its Facebook page before you go.
Food & Drink
Places to eat and drink
Shopping
Antiques, boutiques, and local shops
Camping & Lodging
Places to stay
Gas & Convenience
Gas and supplies
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Verify before relying on this. Compiled from Missouri State Parks, the Missouri Department of Conservation, the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, and each venue’s own site. Hours, fees, and regulations change — check directly before a trip, especially for hunting and fishing seasons and limits.
