Things To Do

Missouri National Recreational River is a destination for over 150,000 visitors each year. The hardest part may be choosing which boating access, fishing spot, water route, overlook or historic area to explore! Recreational opportunities abound for every type of visitor. Read on to begin your journey along North America's longest river.

 

Attend Free Ranger Programs
Learn more about the the nature, science, history and culture of the Missouri National Recreational River with a park ranger as your guide. Ranger Programs are given throughout the summer.

 

Become a Junior Ranger for Missouri National Recreational River
Missouri National Recreational River will be offering Junior Ranger programs at three different age levels, available online or at the Lewis and Clark Visitor Center.

 

Birdwatch along one of America's premier flyways
The Missouri River is one of the major North American migratory waterfowl flyways, making it a favorite destination for Birding. Migrating species benefit from bottomland, which serves as wintering, feeding, breeding, and staging grounds.

 

Camp right beside a Wild and Scenic River
Spend a night Camping at one of the many spots offered at state parks adjacent to your National Recreational River!

 

Fish the Big Muddy for catfish, walleye and sauger
Catfish, walleye, sauger, paddlefish, and many more game species await your Fishing skills in the two reaches of the Missouri National Recreational River, 20 miles of the lower Niobrara River, and 8 miles of the lower Verdigre Creek.

 

Float the Missouri National Recreational River
By boat or canoe/kayak, enjoy scenic views and a variety of river adventures.
39 Mile Reach - Paddler's Guide (Fort Randall to Running Water, SD)
59 Mile Reach - Paddler's Guide (Gavins Point Dam to Ponca, NE)

 

Gaze at the stars like you've never seen them before
Bring your telescope and experience astronomy first hand! There are many places along the river corridor that provide excellent conditions for stargazing. Even without a telescope, you can watch the passage of the International Space Station orbiting at over 17,000 miles per hour. Click for viewing times.

 

Hike at one of the state parks along the river corridor
State parks along the Missouri National Recreational River have a variety of recreational trails. These include: Niobrara State Park,
Ponca State Park and Lewis & Clark State Recreation Area.

 

Stop by one of the Visitor Centers staffed by our rangers
Missouri National Recreational River Park Rangers are onsite at Ponca State Park and the Lewis and Clark Visitor Center throughout the spring and summer to answer your questions about the Mighty Missouri.