Recreational Resources
Get connected to the Missouri River through recreation!
There are many ways to connect to the Missouri River, but sometimes the river can be intimidating, and lets face it, it can take a lot of planning to get out there! We want you to be able to explore and enjoy this resource safely too. Everyone is welcome to recreate on the Missouri River and we hope these resources will help make sure you are ready for your next paddling adventure, catfishing experience or riverside hike.
Paddling
You can do day paddles or plan multiple days and nights on the river. We have many resources to help you prepare for your paddle trip and things to consider before you get on the river. Click here to learn more!
Challenge yourself to race on the river!
Competitive? Sign up for a river race! Click each logo to learn more.
These don't work for you? Here is a link to other races happening!
Catfishing
Whether you're new to fishing, an experienced fisherman, or curious about fishing on the Missouri River - borrow everything you need for a fishing adventure with our FREE Catfishing Gear Library in Columbia, Missouri!
Click here to lean more about the Catfishing Gear Library!
Hiking with Small Children
When families have meaningful experiences outdoors, their quality of life, health, and social well being improve. We believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to enjoy time outdoors, but we know that outdoor gear for families can be expensive, especially when kids outgrow these items so quickly. This is why we have partnered with First Chance for Children, a non-profit that provides early childhood programs and family resources, to offer five child carrier backpacks that can be checked out through their Lend & Learn Library in Columbia, MO.
Click here to lean more about checking out a child carrier -->
Areas to Explore the River
There is so much to do around the Missouri River! Below are just a handful of ways to connect yourself to this magnificent resource and spend some time outdoors without physically getting on the river. From fishing off the banks, biking alongside the river, or just simply enjoying the view, the areas listed below have plenty of recreational opportunities for you to explore.
The Katy Trail - At 240 miles long, this trail runs between Clinton and Machens and has 26 trailheads. Starting in Boonville, The Katy Trail runs along the Missouri River. Check out the link to learn more about this historical Missouri trail.
Big Muddy Notional Fish and Wildlife Refuge - This refuge has 18 units available for free to the public, with almost 20,000 acres of wildlife habitat along the lower Missouri River. Click the link to learn more and visit one of the refuge units closest to you.
Conservation Areas - The Missouri Department of Conservation manages the majority of the accesses to the Missouri River, and have many conservation areas across the state. Use this search to find areas near you, and be sure to use the advanced search option to fine-tune your search.
Missouri River Towns - There are many historic towns along the Missouri River. The link provided highlights some of these towns that you should consider visiting. Here is a quick link to all the Missouri towns along the Big Muddy.
Students enjoying a nature walk on the Katy Trail during our 2022 Missouri River Days program. Photo by Claire Jackson.
Enjoy the scenic views of the Missouri River from any conservation areas or wildlife refuges! Photo by Kevin Tosie.
Make your way to Wilson's Serenity Point at Noren Access for a great view of the capital and great areas to fish! Photo by Alyssa Thomas.