Dogwood Canyon

TWENTY-TWO HUNDRED acres of land, which begins in southwest Missouri and stretches across the border into Arkansas, has become an "Ozarks paradise" and an exceptionally striking leisure destination. The area is officially known as the Dogwood Canyon Nature Park.

At Dogwood Canyon, limestone bluffs, gorgeous waterfalls, ornate bridges, and native wildlife combine with trees, flowers, and streams to form an unbelievably beautiful landscape. The property was acquired in 1990 by Johnny Morris, founder of Bass Pro Shops. It was purchased with the idea of conserving the natural environment.

.

The Park provides a wide variety of outdoor recreational and leisure opportunities, including walking, biking, trout fishing, horseback riding, and guided tram tours. Visitors can stay overnight in private log cabins if they desire. Individuals may purchase an "adventure pass" which includes several options, or they may buy tickets for only one activity. Group accommodations are available for company picnics, family reunions, wedding ceremonies, and corporate retreats. All areas are accessible to those who are physically challenged, however, all activities are subject to weather conditions. Because of safety concerns, things not permitted in the Park are alcohol, pets, roller blades, skateboards, or scooters.

Reservations are suggested for visitors who wish to ride in the open-air trams. Tours leave at various times through the day. The wildlife tour is a two-hour excursion into Arkansas. For walking and biking, there's six and a half miles - mostly level - of round-trip paved trails. Rides on horseback provide scenic vistas and unique areas at a leisurely pace. Fishing for trout is all done in spring-fed water. A general store provides food and refreshments, plus a large variety of merchandise. The Park also has an outdoor cafe.

The entrance to the Park is located at 2038 West State Highway 86 near Lampe, Missouri. It is approximately 16 miles west of U.S. Highway 65 - the main route south of Branson. The Park is open from April through November. Hours vary slightly during some months, but usually range from at least 9 to 5 daily. Park personnel may be contacted for information or reservations by calling 417-779-5983.

Dogwood Canyon is a great place to take a break from the stresses of work, the strain of pressing obligations, or the rush of usual routines. It's a place to get-away for fun, exercise, and activity; but it's also a place where a person can relax, unwind, and slow-down. Whether it's for a day or only a couple of hours, Dogwood Canyon is a special spot. Some might even think it feels like a little bit of heaven!