Springfield's position in the Ozarks puts it within easy reach of some of the most scenic and distinctive landscapes in the central United States.
Branson (45 miles south) is Missouri's tourist entertainment capital, with dozens of live music theaters, the famous Silver Dollar City theme park, and Table Rock Lake — a reservoir with clear Ozark water, good fishing, and boat rentals. The drive south on US-65 through the Ozark hills is enjoyable in its own right.
Table Rock Lake and the White River Hills The lake, formed by a dam on the White River, offers swimming, kayaking, houseboating, and some of the best bass fishing in the Midwest. State Park Marina at Table Rock State Park is the main access point.
Wilson's Creek National Battlefield (10 miles southwest of Springfield) preserves the site of the first major Civil War battle west of the Mississippi River, fought in August 1861. The visitor center has good exhibits, and a self-guided driving tour covers the key positions.
Roaring River State Park (about 70 miles south) is a beautiful Ozark valley park with excellent trout fishing in a spring-fed river, hiking trails, and a historic fish hatchery.