As a Springfield MO family photographer and mom of four, I know firsthand how many incredible family-friendly outdoor activities Springfield, MO, has to offer. Whether it’s exploring the beauty of the Ozarks or simply enjoying time together in nature, there’s something for everyone to love!
Our family absolutely lives for the outdoors. We’re always looking for new adventures to explore, learn, run, and play. To help you plan your next outing, I’ve put together a list of our favorite outdoor activities and spots in Springfield, MO. It’s time to create unforgettable memories while soaking up the beauty of the outdoors!
Top 14 Outdoor Activities in Springfield MO Your Whole Family Will Enjoy
1. Dickerson Park Zoo
Dickerson Park Zoo is a great place to take kids. They can see 100s of different animals while getting exercise walking through the park. They have opportunities to feed some of the animals, a train ride, a playset, a splash pad (available seasonally), and a café for lunch or snacks during your visit.
2. Springfield Conservation Nature Center
We love to walk through the Springfield Conservation Nature Center. We recently discovered you could check out a kid’s Discovery bag at the front desk of the nature center. It has activities for kids to do along the way. Our bag had bird calls, binoculars, crayons to discover leaf prints, and so much more! My kids thought it was the coolest thing since sliced bread. It doubled great as a homeschool field trip for us! They also have kids’ events throughout the year to teach them different things about nature throughout the seasons.
3. Fantastic Caverns
Fantastic Caverns is a ride-thru cave where families can ride Jeep-drawn trams while experiencing the magnitude, the stillness, and the beauty of all of the natural features in the Caverns.
4. Rutledge Wilson Farm Park
Rutledge Wilson Park is a unique park that not only has a playset but a petting zoo as well! This is my daughter’s favorite park, and begs to go at least 3x a week. She loves seeing all the animals and petting them too! All of the animals are so gentle and great for kids of any age.
5. Visit One of The Best Parks In Springfield MO
We love to visit all of the local parks. It is a great place for the kids to run around, play on the playsets, make friends, go on walks, play frisbee, kick around a ball, practice sports and explore each of their unique natural features. Here is a list of the Top 7 Best Parks In Springfield MO
6. Walking Trails In Springfield MO
Did you know Springfield MO has over 140 MILES of walking trails? I was shocked to find we have so many amazing trails! Our family loves to go on walks, runs, biking, take our scooters and explore the trails as we get some fresh air. Here is a list of the 6 Best Walking Trails in Springfield, MO.
7. Jordan Valley Park
Jordan Valley Park is so fun because they not only has a splash fountain for families to enjoy, but they also have a playground and wide grass spots that are perfect for picnics, and it attaches a walking trail that attaches to Springfield’s walking trail system.
8. Japanese Stroll Garden
Japanese Stroll Gardens is the oldest attraction at the Springfield Botanical Gardens. It is a 7.5-acre garden that includes a large koi lake, moon bridge, meditation garden, tea house, and traditional Japanese garden landscaping.
9. Kayaking
Kayaking can be a fun way to enjoy the outdoors while in Springfield. Go floating, throw a line out to fish, or just hang out with your family. Here is a list of places to Float in the Ozarks
10. Caving
Growing up, my friends and family always went caving often. Our version of caving is walking through caves, occasionally swimming through them, and exploring the unique adventure that comes through investigating the views of natural caves. Ritter Springs and Sequiota Park both offer caves that are available to the public.
11. Visit One of The Top Dog Park In Springfield MO
Bring your family and fur babies to enjoy a leash-free park together. You can find more information on The Top Dog Park in Springfield MO HERE.
12. Go Fishing
Living in a farming country, you have probably had your fair share of fishing, but it can be such a fun family activity! A few of our favorite public places to go are Fellows Lake, Valley Watermill, and McDaniel Lake.
13. Visit One of The Swimming Holes In Springfield MO
There are so many swimming holes in Springfield MO! Here is a list of the Top 5 BEST swimming holes in Springfield MO (in our opinion!)
14. Outdoor Photography Adventure!
As a photographer, I had to save the best for last. One of our favorite things to do as a family is to create a photography adventure. The best part is you can find someone else to do the planning for you!
Families often come to me looking for an outdoor adventure with their family but don’t want the stress. I find the most beautiful locations, help find the BEST outfits that you are comfortable in and love and capture your family playing, exploring, and spending time together in a candid way. You not only get a fun time together, but you will also receive a beautiful gallery of photos you will cherish forever. You can find more information on what I offer HERE.
Overall, there are so many fun, family-friendly outdoor activities in Springfield MO! We are so blessed to live in such a gorgeous place that offers lots of adventure. I hope your family has the BEST time!
Looking for more family fun to do in Springfield MO? Check out the blog posts below for more ideas.
