State Parks

Yes, I've been to the real Grand Canyon in Arizona (twice as a matter of fact) so I know the difference. But, Missouri does have its own miniature version of the Grand Canyon - sort of.

Hard to believe we're not that far away from the season when the colors will start to change signaling the arrival of Fall. If you're a fan of watching leaves performing this annual ritual, you need to drive down the Mississippi River a ways to an Illinois state park that was named one of the best places in America to see the changing of the seasons.

I don't get the chance to adventure as much as I used to. Fortunately, I can vicariously live through the journeys of others including two adventurers who recently shared what it's like inside the caverns of Cave-In-Rock State Park in southern Illinois.

If you're looking to cool off as the weather heats up and defy gravity at the same time, I know a place in Missouri that maybe should be on your must-visit list. Many who go there jump off the rock cliffs and there's also a natural waterslide.

It's one of Missouri's first state parks and it also happens to be one of the biggest springs in America. See for yourself the wonders of Big Spring State Park in Missouri.