Richland MissouriATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Richland, Missouri.
1. Shady Dell Park
COMMUNITY GREEN SPACE HUB
Shady Dell Park is a beloved 20-acre green space near the heart of Richland featuring covered picnic pavilions, playgrounds, sports courts, and a walking trail. The park hosts the annual Tri-County Fair, a seasonal farmers market, and various community events including car shows and truck and tractor pulls. Railroad enthusiasts will appreciate the park's caboose display which pays homage to the city's railroading heritage.
2. Richland Golf & Country Club
SCENIC NINE-HOLE COURSE
Richland Golf & Country Club offers a 9-hole golf course featuring 3,200 yards of golf from the longest tees for a par of 36. The course, which opened in 1970, has a course rating of 33.6 and a slope rating of 112. Located at 1555 N. Pine St., the club provides a scenic golfing experience for visitors and locals alike.
3. Gasconade River
PREMIER BASS FISHING DESTINATION
The Gasconade River offers 30 miles of clear water winding around Richland, providing some of Missouri's best bass fishing opportunities. Visitors can enjoy floating the river as a popular recreational activity during warm months. The river's scenic beauty and abundant wildlife make it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
4. Double O Stables
HORSEBACK RIDING ADVENTURES
Double O Stables offers horseback riding tours in the scenic countryside around Richland. Visitors can experience the natural beauty of the Ozarks region from horseback with guided trail rides suitable for various skill levels. The stables provide a family-friendly outdoor activity that showcases the rural charm of Pulaski County.
5. Brock Family Tree Totem Pole
UNIQUE ROADSIDE ATTRACTION
The Brock Family Tree Totem Pole is a distinctive attraction located on Highway A in Richland. This unique piece of folk art tells the story of a local family through carved figures and symbols. Visitors often stop to photograph this roadside curiosity that represents part of Richland's cultural heritage.
6. Richland Mural
LOCAL ARTISTIC EXPRESSION
The Richland Mural is an impressive piece of public art painted on the side of a local building. Created by Richland art students, the mural celebrates the community's history and culture through vibrant imagery. The artwork has become a point of pride for residents and a visual landmark for visitors to the town.
7. Richland Farmer's Market
LOCAL PRODUCE & CRAFTS
The Richland Farmer's Market operates from spring to fall under the big pavilion at Shady Dell Park, offering fresh eggs, produce, local honey, jams, and baked goods. Local vendors showcase the region's agricultural bounty and homemade crafts in a community-oriented setting. The market has become a gathering place for residents and visitors looking to experience authentic local flavors.
8. Richland Swimming Pool
OLYMPIC-SIZE COMMUNITY POOL
The Richland Swimming Pool is an Olympic-size public pool located within Shady Dell Park that provides summer recreation for families. The facility offers a refreshing escape during hot Missouri summers with space for swimming, splashing, and sunbathing. The pool serves as a social hub for local youth and families during the summer season.
9. Tri-County Fair
ANNUAL COMMUNITY CELEBRATION
The Tri-County Fair is an annual event held in June at Shady Dell Park that brings together communities from the surrounding area. The fair features livestock exhibitions, carnival rides, food vendors, and entertainment for all ages. This traditional gathering celebrates the agricultural heritage and community spirit of Pulaski County and neighboring regions.
10. Richland Antique Shops
VINTAGE TREASURE HUNTING
Richland is home to several antique shops where visitors can browse for vintage treasures and collectibles. These charming storefronts offer a glimpse into the past with their diverse collections of furniture, housewares, and memorabilia. Antique enthusiasts will enjoy wandering through these shops as part of the small-town shopping experience in Richland.
11. Pulaski County Courthouse
HISTORIC GOVERNMENT CENTER
The Pulaski County Courthouse stands as an architectural landmark in nearby Waynesville, serving as the center of county government. Built in a classic style, the courthouse features historical displays that chronicle the development of Pulaski County, including Richland. Visitors interested in local history often include this building in their tour of the area.
12. Fort Leonard Wood
MILITARY HISTORY MUSEUM
Fort Leonard Wood, located near Richland, houses several museums showcasing U.S. military history, including the U.S. Army Engineer Museum and Military Police Museum. Visitors can explore exhibits featuring military equipment, historical artifacts, and interactive displays detailing the evolution of various military branches. The base offers a fascinating educational experience for those interested in American military heritage.
13. Roubidoux Spring
NATURAL UNDERWATER WONDER
Roubidoux Spring is a natural wonder in nearby Waynesville that produces millions of gallons of clear water daily, creating the Roubidoux Creek. The spring features an underwater cave system that attracts certified cave divers from across the country. Visitors can enjoy the scenic park surrounding the spring, which includes walking paths, picnic areas, and opportunities to observe the impressive water flow.
14. Devils Elbow
HISTORIC ROUTE 66 LANDMARK
Devils Elbow is a historic community near Richland that was once a significant stop along the famous Route 66 highway. Visitors can explore the scenic area featuring a historic bridge over the Big Piney River and buildings dating back to the heyday of the Mother Road. The area offers beautiful Ozark scenery combined with Route 66 nostalgia, making it popular with history buffs and road trip enthusiasts.
15. Ha Ha Tonka State Park
CASTLE RUINS & TRAILS
Ha Ha Tonka State Park, within driving distance of Richland, features the stone ruins of a 1900s castle perched atop a bluff overlooking the Lake of the Ozarks. The park boasts over 15 miles of trails showcasing sinkholes, natural bridges, caves, and breathtaking panoramic views of the lake and surrounding Ozark landscape. Visitors can explore the castle ruins, hike through diverse ecological habitats, and access the park's natural spring, which produces an average of 48 million gallons of water daily.