If traveling is one of your goals for 2026, there’s one weekend road trip that’s being called the must-take drive in Missouri.

The One Missouri Weekend Road Trip Travelers Say You Can’t Miss

Missouri is home to many beautiful places to explore. Whether you want the energy of a big city like Kansas City or St. Louis, or you’re craving something quieter like Hermann or Hannibal, there are plenty of road trips you can take that won’t break your budget.

Why Springfield to Camdenton Stands Out

According to Love Exploring, the most beautiful road trip in Missouri is the drive from Springfield to Camdenton. I’ve driven to the Springfield area before, and it truly is a gorgeous trip. Between the rolling hills, scenic views, and wide-open roads, it’s an amazing drive, especially heading toward Branson.

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Clay Banks on Unsplash
Clay Banks on Unsplash
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What You’ll See Along the Drive

It’s also an easy weekend getaway if you’re looking to unplug and enjoy nature. You may want to wait until spring or summer to take this trip, but if you like planning, it’s never too early to start.

The drive from Springfield to Camdenton is only about 75 miles. For us, it’s a bit longer to get to either place, but isn’t that part of the fun of a road trip? The journey, the stops along the way, and discovering what’s tucked away out in the countryside.

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The longest road trip I’ve ever taken was down to Gulf Shores, and while it was a long haul, it turned into one of the best vacations I’ve ever had. I made some incredible memories with close friends, and whether you’re road-tripping with family or friends, it’s those memories that make road trips truly unforgettable.

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