Missouri Road Trip Itinerary: Branson, the Ozarks & Beyond

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Every road trip has a story.

Sometimes you know what it’s going to be before you leave the driveway.

Other times, it slowly unfolds one mile at a time.

Ours happened somewhere between Ohio and Missouri.

What started as a filming assignment for Robb became the perfect excuse to load up the RV, bring our grandson Mason along, and take the long way to Missouri.

Over the next 17 days, we crossed seven states, chased waterfalls, wandered quirky roadside towns, laughed until our sides hurt, and found a few surprises we never saw coming.

We laughed.  We got caught in the rain. We ate way too much ice cream.

I even got beaned twice by a flying dinner roll.

But somewhere between the go-karts in Branson and the winding roads through the Ozarks, I realized this trip had become more than a Missouri road trip.

It was a reminder that the places we plan to visit are only part of the adventure. Sometimes, the best memories are found in the unexpected stops, the changing plans, and the roads we never intended to take.

Because some of the best road trips happen when you’re willing to take the long way.

Why We Chose This Route

Before I show you our route, I think it’s helpful to understand why we planned it this way. We weren’t looking for the fastest drive to Branson. We were looking for a road trip filled with places we’d remember long after we got home.

We Never Drive Straight There

When Robb told me he had a filming assignment in Branson, my first thought wasn’t, “Great, let’s go to Branson.”

It was, “What else can we see while we’re there?”

If you’ve followed The Stromads for any length of time, you already know we rarely drive straight from Point A to Point B. We enjoy taking the long way, especially if there’s something interesting to see along the route.

It also doesn’t help that Robb has one road trip rule.  He refuses to drive the same road twice.

If there’s another way to get where we’re going, that’s the road we’ll take. It’s why so many of our trips end up looking like one big loop instead of an out-and-back vacation.

 Every State Has to Earn Its Checkmark

We also have another little tradition.

We don’t count a state as “visited” just because we drove across it, and flying over it doesn’t count.  Driving through it without stopping doesn’t count either.

To earn a spot on our travel map, we have to spend the night, visit an attraction, or spend enough time exploring to feel like we’ve experienced the state.

Building the Perfect Loop

Once we knew Missouri was on the calendar, the planning became the fun part.

Hocking Hills had been on my wish list for years.

Casey, Illinois, was an easy decision because we’d been there before and knew Mason would love all the giant roadside attractions.

St. Louis fit perfectly as an overnight stop, and before long, we’d built an entire road trip around one filming assignment.

The Route 66 Neon Park in St. Robert was another stop I’d wanted to see.

Then the plans changed again.

Before we ever reached Branson, Robb had another filming assignment near Sunset Beach, Missouri, on the Lake of the Ozarks.

We planned to spend a few days exploring the area.  Mother Nature had other ideas.  It rained almost the entire time we were there.

We adjusted our plans, explored Bridal Cave, and waited for the skies to clear.

Sometimes that’s just part of RV travel.

After that, we finally made our way to Branson.

When our time in Missouri came to an end, we pointed the RV toward the Great Smoky Mountains before making our way home to Pennsylvania.  That part of the trip deserves its own story.

For now, let’s head back to where this adventure really began.
Hocking Hills, Ohio.

Hocking Hills Was Worth the Detour

If you’re starting this road trip anywhere east of Missouri, do yourself a favor and add Hocking Hills to your route.

I’d heard people talk about Hocking Hills State Park for years, but somehow we always seemed to be heading somewhere else. This trip finally gave us the excuse to stop, and I’m so glad we did.

Pictures don’t really capture Hocking Hills.  The moss-covered rocks seemed to glow against the sandstone cliffs. Water trickled through the gorges, waterfalls spilled over the rocks, and every turn in the trail made us stop for another picture.

We stayed two nights at Hocking Hills State Park, which gave us one full day to explore. Looking back, I think that was just about right for a first visit.

Three Hikes, Three Completely Different Experiences

We only had time for three hikes during our stay, and each one offered something completely different.

Old Man’s Cave

Old Man’s Cave was our favorite and the one I’d recommend if it’s your first visit.  It felt like we’d stepped into a fairy tale.

I loved watching Mason’s face as he rounded each bend. Every waterfall and towering gorge wall seemed to surprise him all over again.

Cedar Falls

Cedar Falls was a different story.

Everything I had read described it as a moderate hike, just like Old Man’s Cave.

What those descriptions didn’t mention were the long staircases into the gorge, the rock scrambles, and some tight passages along the trail.

I wasn’t feeling well, so I let Robb and Mason head down the trail while I enjoyed a little downtime.

When they got back, Mason looked at me and said,  “There were a lot of steps down… and about a million back up. You’d have been crying, Gamma.”

We all burst out laughing because he was probably right.

It was also a good reminder that trail ratings can be a little misleading. If stairs, uneven footing, or scrambling over rocks aren’t your thing, don’t let the word moderate be your only guide. Spend a few extra minutes reading recent trail reviews so you know exactly what to expect.

Ash Cave

Then there was Ash Cave.

If you’re looking for the easiest hike with one of the biggest payoffs, don’t skip it.

The paved path makes it accessible to almost everyone, and in just a short walk, you’re standing beneath a massive, recessed cave with a waterfall spilling over a rock ledge.

It’s one of those places that makes you stop for a minute and simply look around.

Staying at Hocking Hills State Park Campground

Hocking Hills was our first stop after leaving Pennsylvania.

At about seven and a half hours, it was the perfect first travel day.  Long enough to make good progress, but short enough that we weren’t exhausted when we pulled into the campground.

The campground was quiet, wooded, and easy to navigate in our RV.

After a full day of hiking, it was the perfect place to relax before continuing west toward Missouri.

If you’re traveling during the busy season, I’d recommend reserving your campsite well in advance.   Hocking Hills State Park is popular, and it’s easy to see why.

 The Stromads Take

By the time we pulled out of the campground, I found myself wondering why we’d waited so long to visit.

It may have been a stop on the way to Missouri, but it became one of the highlights of the entire trip.

Would we stop again? Absolutely. I’d spend another day or two exploring more of the park.

How much time do you need? Two nights is enough to see the highlights. Three nights lets you slow down and enjoy it even more.

Best for: Families, hikers, photographers, couples, RVers, and anyone who enjoys being outdoors.

Don’t miss: Old Man’s Cave. If you only have time for one hike, make it this one.

💡 Stromads Tip: Don’t rely on trail ratings alone. Read recent reviews and look at trail photos before you go. A “moderate” hike in one park can feel very different from a “moderate” hike somewhere else.

Casey, Illinois Is Weird…and That’s Exactly Why We Love It

We hadn’t planned on stopping in Casey.

As we were driving west on I-70, Robb realized we were passing right by it. It made the perfect place to stretch our legs before continuing west.

It also gave Mason a chance to officially check Illinois off his map.

Around here, we have a rule.  You don’t get to count a state just because you drove through it. You have to spend the night, visit an attraction, or spend enough time exploring to feel like you’ve actually been there.

Casey made Illinois an easy checkmark.

Giant Attractions and Giant Smiles

It was one of those hot summer afternoons where you start looking for shade almost as soon as you step outside.  We didn’t stay long.

Still, Mason saw enough to understand why people love this quirky little town.

There was the giant mailbox.

The enormous bird cage.

The oversized rocking chair.

And, of course, ice cream.

Mason couldn’t stop laughing at the giant bird cage.  The first thing he did was step inside.

I have to admit, that was my favorite too.  Growing up in the late ’60s and ’70s, I thought it would be pretty cool to be one of those go-go dancers in a cage.  Stepping inside that giant bird cage was probably the closest I’ll ever get to living out that dream.

We all had a good laugh.

It’s wonderfully weird, doesn’t take itself too seriously, and reminds you that road trips don’t always have to be about big attractions.

Sometimes a giant mailbox and an ice cream cone are enough.

The Stromads Take

Would we stop again? Absolutely. Casey is one of those towns that’s even more fun when you’re introducing someone else to it.

How much time do you need? Two or three hours is plenty to see the highlights, grab an ice cream, and stretch your legs.

Best for: Families, road trippers, photographers, and anyone who appreciates quirky roadside attractions.

Don’t miss: Pick up a town map and see how many giant objects you can find. It turns the visit into a fun scavenger hunt.

One Perfect Day in St. Louis

Some places deserve a second visit.  Not because they’ve changed.  Because the people you’re sharing them with have.

About 20 years ago, Robb and I took Mason’s dad and his Uncle, Matt, to St. Louis on their first trip out west. I still remember them standing beneath the Gateway Arch, staring up at it, wondering how something so massive could even exist.

 Cruising the Mississippi River

Before heading to the top of the Gateway Arch, we climbed aboard a Mississippi River cruise. Seeing the Arch towering above the river gave us a whole new appreciation for its scale and a chance to enjoy the St. Louis skyline from the water.

Sometimes it’s nice to let someone else do the driving for a while.

The Gateway Arch

Later that day, we experienced the Arch from a completely different perspective, this time from the inside.

Twenty years later, it was Mason’s turn.

There’s something special about sharing places across generations.

The Arch hadn’t changed much, but our family had.

Standing there with Mason, I couldn’t help but think about his dad making that very same ride all those years ago. Today, he’s a structural engineer, and he still talks about the incredible engineering behind the Arch.

I have a feeling he’ll be talking about that tram ride for years, just like his dad still does.

Ride the Tram to the Top

The tram ride is still every bit as unique as I remembered.

Once the pod doors open, you’ll climb a short flight of stairs and step inside the Gateway Arch. It’s an odd feeling because you’re no longer looking at the Arch—you’re standing inside it.

Each tram takes you to either the north or south side of the Arch, where a narrow viewing area stretches along the curved interior. Through the small windows, you’ll have views of St. Louis and the Mississippi River, but you’ll only have about six or seven minutes before it’s time to head back down.

The space feels surprisingly tight, and with about 80 people at the top, it can get a little crowded. Between the curved walls, the narrow walkway, and the sensation that the Arch is gently swaying, it’s one of the strangest experiences we’ve ever had.

I’d visited the Gateway Arch years ago, and it felt exactly as I remembered it. Of all the attractions we’ve experienced over the years, it’s still one of the freakiest non-amusement-park rides we’ve ever taken, and one that definitely leaves a lasting impression.  It’s worth every minute.

Staying at Casino Queen RV Park

We stayed at Casino Queen RV Park, just across the river in Illinois.

The campground is simple, but the location couldn’t have been more convenient. It made getting into downtown St. Louis easy without worrying about taking the RV through city traffic.

Would we go back?

Absolutely.

Next time through, with the grandkids, I’d like to see The City Museum.  We can always find a reason to plan another trip.

Sometimes one great day just isn’t enough.

H3: The Stromads Take

Would we stop again? Absolutely. Next time, we’d add another day just for the City Museum.

How much time do you need? One full day is enough to experience the Arch and enjoy a riverboat cruise. Add a second day if City Museum is on your list.

Best for: Families, history buffs, architecture lovers, and anyone traveling west for the first time.

Don’t miss: Ride the tram to the top of the Arch. I mean…why else would you go?

A Rainy Day Around the Lake of the Ozarks

Before we ever made it to Branson, Robb had another filming assignment near Sunset Beach, Missouri, on the Lake of the Ozarks.

We planned to spend three days exploring the area.  Mother Nature had other ideas.

It rained.  Not the kind of rain that comes and goes.  The kind that changes your plans before you’ve even finished your morning coffee.

One thing we’ve learned after years on the road is that a rainy day doesn’t have to be a wasted day. Sometimes it just means finding a different adventure.

We could have stayed in the RV waiting for the weather to clear.

Instead, we headed out for lunch, drove to Bridal Cave, and finished the afternoon at the Route 66 Neon Park in St. Robert.

Bridal Cave Wasn’t My Adventure

Bridal Cave was one stop I happily skipped.

Somewhere along the way, I realized I’d reached my cave limit.

While Robb and Mason headed underground, I settled into the car, caught up on a little work, and enjoyed some quiet time.

When they got back, they couldn’t wait to tell me about the narrow passageways, slippery walkways, and one section where they actually had to squeeze their way through.

Then Mason looked at me and laughed.  “Gamma, you would’ve been crying. Right, Pop Robb?”

Robb just smiled and said,  “I think you made the right choice.”

We all laughed because they were probably right.

Based on everything the guys told me afterward, I was pretty happy with my decision.

The one thing I hated missing was the hidden underground lake at the end of the tour.

Robb described this beautiful blue lake tucked deep inside the cave. He said you could still see the old ladders early explorers used to climb down into the water.  That almost made me wish I’d gone.

Almost.

 A Stop That Had Been on My Wish List

From Bridal Cave, we made the hour-long drive to St. Robert.

The Route 66 Neon Park had been on my list since I first heard about it.

I’ve always loved old neon signs.  They remind me of the golden age of American road trips, when every motel, diner, and roadside attraction competed to catch your attention from miles away.

The park isn’t large.  You can easily walk through it in less than an hour.  Each sign tells a little piece of Route 66 history.

It was the perfect way to spend a rainy afternoon and a nice reminder that sometimes the best road trip memories come from the stops you hadn’t planned to make that day.

The Lake Will Have to Wait

As for the Lake of the Ozarks, I don’t feel like we really got to know it.

Between the rain and Robb’s filming schedule, we only scratched the surface.

Everyone we talked to raved about the lake, and after driving around the area, I can understand why.

I have a feeling we’ll be back.

Next time, we’ll rent a pontoon, hope for sunshine, and see what all the excitement is about.

H3: The Stromads Take

Would we go again? Absolutely. I’d love another chance to experience the Lake of the Ozarks in better weather.

How much time do you need? Three days give you enough time to enjoy the lake, explore the surrounding area, and take a few side trips, such as Bridal Cave and the Route 66 Neon Park.

Best for: Families, RVers, scenic drives, Route 66 fans, and anyone looking for a mix of outdoor adventure and classic Americana.

Don’t miss: If the weather doesn’t cooperate, don’t stay cooped up in the RV. Bridal Cave and the Route 66 Neon Park make an easy and enjoyable rainy-day itinerary.

You Can’t Drive Past Uranus Without Stopping

Leaving the Lake of the Ozarks, we pointed the RV toward Branson.

Well…almost.

There was one more stop waiting for us.

Uranus.

If you’ve never been, just know the whole place doesn’t take itself too seriously.  The signs are cheesy.  The jokes never stop.

And somehow, everyone ends up laughing.

H3: The Weirdness Is Half the Fun

Of course, we wandered through the village for a while before deciding to see what was behind the curtain in the sideshow museum.

For six dollars…Why not?

Inside were shelves filled with old circus memorabilia, strange specimens in jars, stories from the sideshow days, and even a few mummified displays.

It was definitely different.

The biggest hit, though, was the two-headed turtles.

Mason stood there studying them for several minutes, trying to figure out how they could even exist.

Then things got even weirder.

As we walked down the sidewalk, we found a booth where you could…Pet an alien.

Naturally, Mason stuck his hand inside.

The alien immediately growled and buzzed back at him. He jumped.  We laughed.

He stuck his hand back in and did it again.

Sometimes that’s all a roadside attraction has to do.  Give you a story you’ll laugh about long after the trip is over.

Oh…And yes.  We bought fudge.

Because you really can’t leave Uranus without buying fudge.

The Stromads Take

Would we stop again? Absolutely. It’s one of those wonderfully weird roadside stops that remind you road trips are supposed to be fun.

How much time do you need? An hour or two gives you enough time to explore the village, browse the shops, visit the sideshow museum, and, of course, pick up some fudge.

Best for: Families with older kids, road trippers, anyone who appreciates quirky Americana, and people who aren’t afraid to laugh at a few corny jokes.

Don’t miss: Spend the six dollars on the sideshow museum. You never know what you’ll find…or where you’ll end up petting an alien.

Branson Surprised Me in the Best Possible Way

Branson was the reason this whole road trip came together.

Robb had a filming assignment, and after hearing so many people rave about it over the years, I couldn’t wait to see it for myself.

I’ll admit, I’d built it up in my head.

For some reason, I expected more old Route 66 charm. More quirky roadside attractions. More retro neon. More vintage Americana.

Instead, I found something completely different.

My First Impressions of Branson

Driving into Historic Downtown Branson was my favorite first impression.

The large “Welcome to Historic Branson” sign made it feel like we were stepping into another era. The old brick buildings, connected storefronts, family restaurants, ice cream shops, and souvenir stores gave it a welcoming small-town feel. It was easy to imagine what Branson might have looked like years ago.

Unfortunately, the rain cut our visit short.

I would have loved another afternoon wandering through the shops.

From Historic Downtown, we made our way to the Branson Strip.

If you’ve never been, imagine about three miles of theaters, restaurants, mini golf courses, go-kart tracks, wax museums, amusement attractions, and shopping centers lined up one after another.

It’s busy, colorful, and a little bit of everything.  Some attractions looked brand new.  Others looked like they’d been entertaining families for decades.

There were chain restaurants mixed with local favorites, family fun centers sitting next to empty buildings, and just enough roadside weirdness to keep things interesting.

It wasn’t what I expected.  That doesn’t mean it was disappointing.  Just different.

Is Branson Worth Visiting?

One thing that did surprise me was the traffic.  Around seven o’clock, everything seemed to come to a standstill as people headed to the evening shows.

I mean…Gridlock.

Then, almost as if someone had flipped a switch, the Strip fell quiet as everyone disappeared into the theaters.

It was one of the strangest traffic patterns I’ve ever seen.

So…Is Branson worth visiting?

I think the answer depends on who’s asking.

If you’re looking for live entertainment, family attractions, and a vacation where there’s always something to do, I completely understand why people return year after year.  If you’re expecting a quirky mountain town filled with roadside Americana, you might be surprised, just like I was.

The Attractions We Enjoyed Most

For us, Branson wasn’t really about Branson.  It was about watching Mason.

He couldn’t get enough of the attractions.

The mountain coaster quickly became one of his favorites.

The guys rode the Branson Coaster after dark, and that made all the difference.  The track twisted through the trees, lit just enough to see where you were going while everything beyond it disappeared into the darkness.
It was the perfect mix of excitement and just a little bit of fear.

Bass Pro is a staple when we travel. If there’s one nearby, we’re stopping.

After a few frustrating fishing trips where nothing seemed interested in biting except the bottom of the lake, Robb suggested talking to the experts.

Watching the employees help Mason pick out new lures and offer fishing advice was every bit as memorable as shopping itself.

Evenings usually ended the same way.

Ice cream.

One night, we introduced Mason to rolled ice cream.  Another night, we stopped at Cold Stone.

That one turned into its own memory because Mason’s dad worked at Cold Stone in high school.  As the employees sang while mixing the ice cream, Mason immediately called his dad to tell him all about it.  Sometimes the smallest moments become the biggest memories.

The Moment I’ll Always Remember

Nothing topped the go-karts.

Robb has always loved race cars, go-karts, and just about anything with an engine.

Mason was interested, but a little unsure.

Instead of asking if he wanted to race, Robb simply parked the truck and said,  “Let’s go, Boy.”

At first, Mason thought he’d be driving by himself.  I could see the hesitation on his face.

Once Robb explained they’d each have their own kart and race together, everything changed.

The first lap was cautious.  The second was at full speed.  By the end, they were racing each other around every corner with smiles that were impossible to miss.

Watching those two walk off the track together is the picture I’ll remember most from Branson.  Something changed between them that afternoon.

After that, they fished together.  They ate barbecue.  Shared ice cream, talking more, and laughing more.

Somewhere between the go-karts and the drive home, they stopped acting like grandfather and grandson.  They became buddies.

It’s amazing what one simple afternoon can do.

Staying at Great Escapes RV Resort

We stayed at Great Escapes RV Resort, about thirty minutes outside Branson.

That ended up being the right choice for us.

The sites were wide, the roads were easy to navigate, and every morning the campground mascot made the rounds in a golf cart, blasting Who Let the Dogs Out.

Kids came running from every direction to climb aboard the hay wagon for morning activities.  It was impossible not to smile watching them.

If you’re looking for a quieter campground away from the traffic, I’d definitely recommend checking out Great Escapes.

What We’d Do Differently

Every trip teaches us something.  This one was no different.

I would have loved one sunny day to explore Table Rock Lake.  Between the rain and Robb’s filming schedule, we never made it there.

I’d also budget a little more for attractions because they add up quickly, especially with a family.

I was really hoping to catch one of Branson’s magic and illusion shows, but the performance times just didn’t line up with our schedule.

That’s one more reason to go back.

The Stromads Take

Would we go back?  Maybe.  There are still a few things we want to experience, especially Table Rock Lake and one of Branson’s famous magic shows.

How much time do you need?  I’d plan on at least five days. That gives you time for the attractions, a day around Table Rock Lake, a show in the evening, time at Silver Dollar City, and enough flexibility if the weather doesn’t cooperate.

Best for: Families, grandparents traveling with grandkids, lovers of live entertainment, and anyone looking for a destination with plenty to do.

Best Advice:  Don’t try to do everything.  Pick the attractions that fit your family and leave room for a few unexpected moments.

Those usually become the memories you’ll talk about the longest.

You Can’t Leave Missouri Without Eating at Lambert’s Cafe

If you’ve ever planned a road trip through southern Missouri, you’ve probably heard someone say,  “You have to eat at Lambert’s.”

They were right.  This wasn’t our first visit, and I have a feeling it won’t be our last.

More Than Just Dinner

The first thing you’ll notice when you walk inside is the energy.

The dining room is busy.  Servers weave between tables carrying huge platters of food.

The walls are covered with family photos, newspaper clippings, and memorabilia that remind you this isn’t just another restaurant.  It’s an institution.

Then someone yells,  “Hot rolls!”

Before you know it, dinner is flying across the room.

Yes…

They really do throw the rolls.

If you’re paying attention, catching one is easy.
If you’re not…Well…

Let’s just say I managed to get beaned twice. Fortunately, the rolls are soft. My pride took a bigger hit than my head.

The food is exactly what you’d expect from a place that’s famous for Southern comfort cooking.

Barbecue.  Fried chicken.  Chicken fried steak.  Catfish.  Big portions.

And then come the “pass arounds.”

Servers make their way through the dining room, offering fried potatoes, fried okra, macaroni and tomatoes, and sorghum or apple butter for those hot rolls.

Just when you think you’re finished…Someone else comes around with something else.

Go hungry.

This is not the place to order a salad and call it a day.

Even then, don’t be surprised if you’re taking leftovers home.

There’s a reason people make Lambert’s part of their road trip tradition.

It’s more than a meal.  It’s part dinner.  Part entertainment.

And somehow, it never gets old.

The Stromads Take

Would we go again?  Without a doubt.  We’ve now visited two of the three Lambert’s locations, and both have been consistently excellent.

How much time do you need?  Plan on at least an hour, maybe longer during busy times. It’s all part of the experience.

Best for: Families, hungry travelers, comfort-food lovers, and anyone looking for a meal they’ll be talking about long after they leave.

Don’t miss:  Catch a hot roll, try the pass-arounds, and save room for dessert if you possibly can.

A Quick Stop in Metropolis, Illinois

Sometimes a roadside stop has one purpose.

Get the picture.

Metropolis is one of those places.

We pulled into town a little after 7:00 in the evening, and for the most part, the town had already rolled up the sidewalks for the night.

That was okay with us.

We still had to make a stop at Walmart before settling into our campground in Paducah, Kentucky.

Our mission was simple.

See Superman.

Standing in front of the giant Superman statue, it was easy to see why people make the stop.

Whether you’re a lifelong Superman fan or just looking for another quirky roadside attraction, it’s a fun photo opportunity that only takes a few minutes.

The Superman Museum was already closed by the time we arrived, so that’ll have to wait until another trip.

Sometimes road trips are like that.  You don’t always get to see everything.  You simply give yourself another reason to come back.

A few pictures later, Superman was watching over Metropolis again, and we were back on the road toward Kentucky.

The Stromads Take

Would we stop again? Yes, especially to visit the Superman Museum during the day.

How much time do you need? Thirty minutes is enough if you’re just stopping for the statue. Plan an hour or two to explore the museum and downtown.

Best for: Families, superhero fans, road trippers, and anyone collecting quirky roadside attractions.

Don’t miss: The Superman statue. It’s the reason most people come, and it’s worth the quick stop.

Missouri’s Greatest Surprise Wasn’t Branson

By the time we left Branson, our Missouri adventure was winding down.

We pointed the RV east toward Metropolis, Illinois, following Highway 160 before picking up Highway 63.

It turned out to be one of my favorite drives of the entire trip.

The Drive That Changed My Mind About Missouri

I don’t know what I expected Missouri to look like. But this wasn’t it.

The road rolled through mountain after mountain, thick forests, and little towns that seemed to appear out of nowhere before disappearing in the rearview mirror.

Part of the drive followed the edge of Mark Twain National Forest.  Later, we skirted the Shawnee National Forest just across the state line.

There were long stretches where all we saw were trees.

No shopping centers, billboards or traffic.  Just miles of green.

We aren’t looking for tiny back roads.  We’re looking for scenic drives that are comfortable in a forty-foot motorhome.

Missouri delivered exactly that.

Sometimes the drive becomes part of the destination.  This was one of those times.

Before this trip, Missouri was mostly St. Louis and Interstate 70 to me.

Now I’ll remember Branson, the Lake of the Ozarks, rolling hills, and miles of beautiful forests.

It’s a much prettier state than I ever expected.

H3: The Stromads Take

Would we drive this route again?  Absolutely.  Highway 160 and Highway 63 turned out to be one of the prettiest drives of the entire trip.

Best for:  RVers, photographers, nature lovers, and anyone who enjoys scenic highways without leaving RV-friendly roads.

Best Advice:  Give yourself extra time.  This isn’t a drive you’ll want to rush through.

Planning This Route in an RV

Every RV trip starts long before you pull out of the driveway.

I’ve learned that the more planning I do before a trip, the less I have to think about once we’re on the road. Before every road trip, we sit down with RV LIFE Trip Wizard and map out our route, campgrounds, driving days, and fuel stops.

When you’re traveling in a 40-foot Renegade Verona and towing a Jeep, figuring it out as you go isn’t always the best plan.

Here’s what worked well for us on this route.

Can You Drive This Route in a Big RV?

One of the questions we get asked most is, “Would you drive this route in a big RV?”

Absolutely.

We traveled this entire route in our 40-foot Renegade Verona while towing our Jeep, and every mile was comfortable in a big rig.

That doesn’t mean we didn’t plan ahead.

Before we left home, we used RV LIFE Trip Wizard to map out the route and make sure our driving days made sense. We stayed on RV-friendly interstates, U.S. highways, and state highways and never felt like we had to squeeze down tiny back roads just to find something beautiful.

Some of the prettiest scenery of the entire trip came on highways that were comfortable to drive in a big rig.

Campgrounds, Fuel, and Navigation

Our campground stays were a mix of places chosen for us because of Robb’s filming schedule, along with national parks, state parks, and quick overnight stops when we simply needed a place to sleep before getting back on the road.

For our quick overnight in Paducah, Kentucky, we used RV Parky to find an easy place to pull in, spend the night, and get back on the road the next morning.

Fuel is something we plan separately. We use Greenlane and Open Roads to find fuel stops that work for our motorhome. Our Renegade carries plenty of fuel, but we’d much rather stop when it’s convenient than wait until we’re forced to.

If you’d like to try either program, use our referral information when you sign up:

Greenlane: Use referral code  ROBERT396
Open Roads: Use referral code  RVRS1124 or just use Robert Strobridge

For us, each tool has a different job. I use RV LIFE Trip Wizard to map out our overall route before we leave home. On travel days, our Garmin RV GPS keeps us on RV-friendly roads, while Google Maps helps us stay ahead of traffic and road delays.

It’s a system we’ve developed over many miles and many road trips, and it works for us.

Don’t Overschedule Your Travel Days

We also try not to make every travel day an endurance test.

Most days, we aim for four to six hours behind the wheel, depending on traffic and what we want to see along the way. That leaves plenty of time for lunch, unexpected roadside stops, and those little discoveries that often become the best part of the trip.

I’d also leave room for flexibility.

The weather changed several of our plans. Instead of letting it ruin the trip, we adjusted. Some of our favorite memories happened because we were willing to change the plan.

The Stromads RV Tips

Best time to go: Late spring and early fall offer comfortable temperatures and smaller crowds. Summer is great for families, but expect more traffic around Branson.

Choose campgrounds that work for your trip: Our stays included a mix of campgrounds selected because of Robb’s filming schedule, national and state parks, and quick overnight stops when we just needed a place to sleep.

Plan your fuel stops: We use Greenlane and Open Roads to find fuel stops that work for our motorhome. Don’t wait until you’re low on fuel to start looking for a place that’s easy to access in a big rig.

Give every tool a job: We use RV LIFE Trip Wizard to plan our overall route, our Garmin RV GPS for RV-friendly navigation, and Google Maps to stay ahead of traffic and road delays.

Don’t overbook your days: One of the best parts of a road trip is discovering places you didn’t know you’d stop. Leave a little room for those moments.

What We’d Change Next Time

Every road trip teaches us something.

No matter how much planning we do, we always come home with a list that starts with “Next time…”

The good news?

I wouldn’t change the route.  I’d simply make a few adjustments.

 I’d Add More Time

I’d spend another day in St. Louis.

Seeing the Gateway Arch and taking the tram to the top was everything we’d hoped for, but another day would have given us time to explore the City Museum and spend a little more time downtown.

I’d also do more research before arriving at the Lake of the Ozarks.

Between the rain and Robb’s filming schedule, we never really had the chance to experience the area the way we’d planned. There were several places we learned about after we arrived that are already on our list for next time.

As for Branson, I wouldn’t skip it.  I would stay a little longer.

One extra day would be reserved for Table Rock Lake, assuming the weather cooperates this time.

I’d add another day for one of Branson’s shows. I was hoping to catch a magic or illusion show on this trip, but the schedule just didn’t fit ours.

 One More Stop I’d Add

And then there’s Fantastic Caverns near Springfield, MO.

After reaching my cave limit over the years, I never thought I’d say I wanted to visit another one.  But this one is different.

Instead of walking through the cave, you ride a tram.

Now that sounds like my kind of cave.

 The Best Lesson We Learned

One thing I wouldn’t change is traveling with a plan.

Not an hour-by-hour itinerary.

Just enough ideas that if it rains, something is closed, or someone spots an interesting roadside attraction, it’s easy to adjust without feeling like the day is ruined.

Having a plan doesn’t mean you have to stick to it.  It helps set the pace.

Have a plan. Have options. Then leave room for the surprises.  Those are usually the stories you’ll remember most.

Who This Road Trip Is Perfect For

Not every road trip is for everyone.

That’s one of the reasons I wanted to write this guide.

If your idea of a great vacation is sitting on the same beach chair for a week, this probably isn’t your trip.

But if you enjoy discovering new places every couple of days, I think you’ll love this route.

Families and Grandparents

It’s a great fit for families.

There are enough attractions to keep kids entertained, enough outdoor adventures to burn off some energy, and plenty of opportunities to slow down with an ice cream cone or a walk through a small town.

I also think it’s a wonderful trip for grandparents traveling with grandchildren.

Watching Mason experience places like Hocking Hills, the Gateway Arch, giant roadside attractions, go-karts, and even Uranus reminded me that kids don’t always remember the biggest attractions.

Sometimes it’s the little moments they talk about long after the trip is over.

RVers and Road Trippers

If you enjoy road trips where every day feels a little different, this route delivers.

One day, you’re hiking to waterfalls.  The next time you’re catching flying dinner rolls, exploring a quirky roadside town, or driving through miles of beautiful forest.

It never feels like the same day twice.

If you’re traveling in an RV, this route worked well for us.  We stayed on RV-friendly roads, found good campgrounds along the way, and never felt like we had to choose between scenic drives and comfortable travel.

 Nature Lovers and Roadside Attraction Fans

Nature lovers will probably be just as surprised as I was.

Before this trip, I never realized how beautiful southern Missouri really is.  The forests, rolling hills, and scenic highways ended up being just as memorable as the destinations themselves.

And if you’re anything like us and enjoy quirky roadside attractions…You’ll have plenty to smile about.

From the world’s largest mailbox in Casey to petting an alien in Uranus, there was no shortage of unexpected stops along the way.

 Who Might Want to Skip It

If you’re looking for nonstop nightlife, luxury resorts, or a vacation where you unpack once and stay put, this probably isn’t the itinerary for you.

This isn’t the kind of trip where you race from one attraction to the next.

It’s about taking your time, making a few unexpected stops, and enjoying everything that happens along the way.

And for us…That’s exactly what made it so special.

Final Thoughts

Every road trip has a story.

When we left Pennsylvania, I thought this one was about finally seeing Branson and exploring another part of the country we’d somehow missed over the years.

By the time we pulled back into our driveway, I realized it had become much more than that.

It became a chance to watch Mason experience places for the first time.

To see Robb and his grandson become buddies on a go-kart track.

To discover a side of Missouri I never expected, from rolling hills and beautiful forests to small towns and scenic highways that connected everything together.

I’ve been road tripping with Robb for more than twenty years, and one thing has never changed.

He refuses to drive the same road twice.  Over the years, I’ve learned that those new roads usually lead to the best stories.

If you’re thinking about taking this trip, here’s my biggest piece of advice.

Have a plan.  Not a minute-by-minute itinerary.  Just enough of a plan that if it rains, something is closed, or you stumble across a place you didn’t know existed, you have options.

Some of our favorite memories happened because we changed the plan.

Leave room for surprises.  They’re usually the stories you’ll still be telling years from now.

Ready to Plan Your Next Road Trip?

If you’re ready to turn your ideas into a road trip of your own, download our FREE Road Ready Starter Kit.

It’s the same simple planning process we use to build a flexible road trip itinerary before we leave home. In about 60 minutes, you’ll have a route that gives you direction without planning every minute of your adventure.

Inside, you’ll find trip-planning pages, a quick budget planner, packing and safety checklists, and our method for adding one fun, memory-making stop to every travel day.

When you sign up, you’ll also join The Stromads newsletter. I write each one with intention, sharing the road trips, places, and experiences we believe are worth your time, without filling your inbox with fluff.

And one last thing…

If you’re traveling with a teenager, hide the snacks.

Otherwise, they’ll all disappear before the second day. 😊

You’ve been warned.

And one last thing…

If you’re traveling with a teenager…Hide the snacks.

Otherwise, they’ll all disappear before the second day.
😊
You’ve been warned.