Dogwood Canyon Nature Park in Lampe, MO

Highly recommend stopping at Dogwood Canyon if you are in the area. It is a bit pricey, as it costs $20 just to walk onto the property, and then all the activities are separate fees. However, if you are willing to do some walking or biking and really take advantage of all the park has to offer, then I’d say you’d get your money’s worth. The tram is a must-do if it’s your first time. The guides give such great information, and you get to see all the highlights. Horseback riding is on our to-do list in the future.

Beautiful experience riding through the designated trail system. The detail to the waterfalls, landscape and trails were great

I had read many reviews of this nature park, beforehand. It didn’t disappoint!!! We went during the week and even then, this place was packed! Located west of Branson, be prepared to drive gorgeous two lane roads that are often curvy and can be slightly steep….so, plan accordingly. I was glad that we purchased our park AND tram tickets beforehand! Since cell phone service can be scan or non-existent, I went ahead and printed out my tickets, too. The park is gorgeous and clean! Tram seats usually 15-30 minutes before your allotted time. Since we wanted to make sure we sat in the back of the tram, we arrived about 30 minutes prior to seating. The trams are “open air”, so since it was quite cool on our day, we brought a blanket just in case. Our interpretive specialist for our tram was wonderful! I wish I could remember her name, but, she was the delightful and “short” specialist who drove our tour. Tram rides often utilize the same paths/road/trails that bicycles and hikers are using….so, be prepared to “share the road”. Our tram ride was exactly 2 hours long and included lots of great info, photo ops, wildlife and scenic beauty. The park museum is small but insightful. The gift shop has everything that you are looking for in souvenirs. We chose to eat at the restaurant, on site, and it was great! Tessa, our waitress, was OUTSTANDING! We wish MORE restaurants had such pleasant, customer centered and competent waitresses…as Tessa!!!! All in all, our best day in Missouri!

This nature preserve is beautiful. Any easy 6 mile round trip walk on paved trails. It’s good for the soul. We were there when the leaves were changing and it was just something more brilliant around every corner. I love waterfalls and this hike has many to sit and listen to. At first I thought it was expensive but at the end of the day, I was glad we took the time, spent the money to see this area of the Ozarks. Just beautiful….

I would highly recommend the tram ride and ask to ride in Roberts tram. The views were beautiful and seeing the bison and elk were amazing. I would suggest booking your tram time a week in advance. We went on a 9:30 ride and had no trouble finding close parking.