Branson is a popular vacation destination. Visitors flock to this friendly city for the live music, shows and theme parks.
For more than 50 years Branson has entertained audiences with live performances (there are at least a 100 different ones going on all of the time). But at one time Branson was known primarily for its country music scene. Today music lovers of all genres will find what they are craving in this historic city.
Historic downtown Branson has many old theaters, museums, shops and restaurants. And out on 76 Country Blvd you’ll find the many large attractions including The Titanic Museum, a zoo, an aquarium, The Marvel Cave, Dolly Parton’s Dixie Stampede.
The 1800s themed Silver Dollar City is another stop you won’t want to miss! This large amusement park has a water park, a theme park, a dinner cruise and a campground. You’re sure to find something of interest for everyone here.
With all of this live entertainment to keep you busy, why would you even consider looking elsewhere?
How about because Branson is close to the Ozarks, the beautiful mountains of Southwest Missouri that are known for their sparkling springs, lakes, waterfall and caves. And there are 5 state parks all within 2 hours by car from Branson.
Map of State Parks Near Branson MO
Here is a map of the Missouri state parks covered in this post:
List of State Parks Near Branson
Here are each of those state parks with distance from Branson and what is special about each.
1. Table Rock State Park Missouri
Distance from Branson: about 6 miles southwest of Branson (straight-line).
Location: Branson, MO 65616
Table Rock State Park is a public recreation area in the U.S.
Highlights associated with Table Rock State Park Missouri include beach access, lake recreation, and river access.
Visitor facilities listed for the park include a campground, rental cabins, hiking trails, and a designated swimming area.
See our full Table Rock State Park Missouri guide for fees, hours, and what to expect.
2. Roaring River State Park
Distance from Branson: about 34 miles west of Branson (straight-line).
Location: 12716 Farm Rd 2239, Cassville, MO 65625
This larger state park is about an hour’s drive from Branson. There are 7 hiking trails here plus picnic tables and a great spot to fish (for rainbow trout).
The Ozark Chinquapin Nature Center shares the park’s natural history by showcasing live animals and nature exhibits. You can purchase books, guides and souvenirs in their gift shop and the Center is open seasonally from March 1 to October 31.
The campground is also open between March and October (reservations are required). Bring your own tent or RV (there are electric and water hookups) or stay in one of the 26 rustic cabins available. Each cabin has 2 bedrooms and a kitchen and are scattered throughout the park. Dogs are allowed to stay for an additional fee.
The Emory Melton Inn and Conference Center is another option if you are interested in staying overnight but looking for something more modern. This stone and timber lodge with restaurant is located near the entrance to the park.
There are 26 comfortable and spacious guest rooms to choose from, some with kitchenettes and some with private balconies that overlook the river valley below.
See our full Roaring River State Park guide for fees, hours, and what to expect.
3. Bull Shoals-White River State Park
Distance from Branson: about 40 miles southeast of Branson (straight-line).
Location: 153 Dam Overlook Lane, Bull Shoals, AR 72619
Bull Shoals-White River State Park is a 732-acre (296 ha) Arkansas state park in Baxter and Marion Counties, Arkansas in the United States.
Highlights associated with Bull Shoals-White River State Park include waterfall scenery, lake recreation, and river access.
See our full Bull Shoals-White River State Park guide for fees, hours, and what to expect.
4. Bryant Creek State Park
Distance from Branson: about 45 miles east of Branson (straight-line).
Bryant Creek State Park is a 2,917-acre (1,180 ha) public recreation area located along Bryant Creek in south central Douglas County, 22 miles (35 km) southeast of Ava in the Ozarks of southern Missouri.
Visitor facilities listed for the park include hiking trails and a visitor center.
See our full Bryant Creek State Park guide for fees, hours, and what to expect.
5. Hobbs State Park-Conservation Area
Distance from Branson: about 47 miles southwest of Branson (straight-line).
Location: 20201 Highway 12 East, Rogers, AR 72756
Hobbs State Park – Conservation Area (formerly known as Beaver Lake State Park and Hobbs State Management Area) is a 12,056-acre (4,879 ha) Arkansas state park in Benton, Carroll, and Madison Counties, Arkansas in the United States.
See our full Hobbs State Park-Conservation Area guide for fees, hours, and what to expect.
Visitor Tip (Checkout Times)
“Table Rock State Park is known for strictly enforcing their checkout times. Campers highly recommend being fully packed and ready to depart on time to avoid any hassle or temporary confiscation of gear left on the site.”
