Carolyn’s Pumpkin Patch

Carolyn’s Pumpkin Patch sits 20 minutes outside Kansas City. It’s a magical place with a corn maze, a sparkling new full-size carousel, and an adorable railroad where a bright-red 1863 replica engine sweeps visitors under a tunnel and over half a mile of hand-laid track. Animals abound, too, with pig races, and cute bunnies and goats. When you’ve worked up an appetite, sink your teeth into an array of tasty goodies from sandwiches to fudge, wine, and kettle corn. Located at 17607 NE 52nd St, in Liberty, Missouri. For more information, click here.

The Cave Pumpkin Patch

The Cave Pumpkin Patch opens for the season on Saturday September 30th. The pumpkin patch is famous for its cave tour and corn cannons! The patch has a wide variety of games and activities, as well as a huge selection of pumpkins! The Cave Pumpkin Patch is a family owned and operated Pumpkin Patch. The Cave Pumpkin Patch is located at 123 Swinging Bridges Road in Brumley Missouri. Visit their Facebook page here.

The Perryville Pumpkin Farm

The Perryville Pumpkin Farm 2023 season kicks off from September 10 to October 31. Every weekend, guests can take a ride through the colorful farm to pick out their very own pumpkins. Once you’ve found the perfect one, dress it up at the Pumpkin Decorating Station. Participants can also go geocaching, navigate the corn maze, feed the goats, or make corn angels in the corn pit. On weekends, a food stand is available to serve up hot brats and more. Located at 1410 Allen’s Landing Rd, in Perryville, Missouri. For more information, click here.

Campbell’s Maze Daze & Pumpkin Patch

Campbell’s Maze Daze & Pumpkin Patch  is bursting with ways to celebrate the season. Featuring a four-acre corn maze, hayrides, a scavenger hunt, karaoke, and painting pumpkins, there’s something for everyone. For an extra fee, you can also participate in fun activities like bonfires and face painting. Located at 177 Carob Rd, in Clever, Missouri. For more information, click here.

Pete’s Pumpkin Patch  is open every weekend starting September 30 through the end of October. Pickers will be chauffeured to the pumpkin patch via hayride for a true autumn experience. Select your pumpkin before heading to the bounce house, hay tower, barrel cars, and Pete’s Incredible Super Slide. For an extra fee, you can also scale the rock climbing wall or do some mining. Concessions are available for purchase.  Located at 18385 South US Highway 63 , in Rolla, Missouri. For more information, click here.

The Meramec River

The Meramec River is an incredible opportunity, to enjoy a day on the river. Kayaks, canoes, inner tubes, and even rafts are a great way to navigate the river. We put in at Meramec State Park and floated down stream to Meramec Cavern.  We enjoyed our float trip in kayaks, and the trip lasted about 3 hours. Expect a longer trip with a different vessel. Your trip down river, takes you under bridges, and past towering bluffs, you will pass sand bars, a cave, and even a rope swing. This stretch of river is gorgeous, and is a perfect place to enjoy a warm summer day. There are several outfitters in the area, but my personal favorite is Caveman Floating found a Meramec Cavern. For more information, click here.

The Vermillion River

Rafting the Vermilion River is an amazing experience for several reasons. First, It is one of the rare rivers in the US that runs South to North.  Second,  its total lack of development along its banks. It’s a unique river because during the whole trip the only man made structure you will see is the Lone Star Cement Plant near the end.  One of only a few white water rafting experience’s in the Midwest. The  Vermilion River pushes a swift 3 MPH pace, during its high season. There are about 14 sets of rapids spread out over 9 1/2 miles. Most are classified 1’s and 2’s, but If the river water is up over 4 foot, you will get some class 3 rapids.  Highlights of the float include Wildcat Falls, the Lone Star Dam, and The Narrows. For more information, click here.

Crystal City Underground

Weather your an adventure junkie like me, or its your first time in a kayak, this is one Adventure you won’t want to miss! The 3 hour tour takes you up to 400 feet below ground, as you navigate your kayak through the flooded former sand mine.  On your tour you will pass such sights as the “Birth Canal,” “Gilligan’s Island,” “The Squeeze,” ” The Car Wash” and the “Townsend Center”which is the largest opening in the mine. All tours are run by expert guides of great personality, who do an outstanding job both guiding the tour and providing an interesting/entertaining history of the mine.  To reserve your spot call (636) 208-5026  to find out more about this amazing kayak tour click here.

The North Fork White River

Continually replenished by the eighth largest spring system in Missouri, the North Fork River is always ready for your kayak. Nestled among the notable beauty of the southern portion of the Ozarks, paddling along this river exposes you to the beauty of the bluffs and the massive ridges along the shoreline that are followed by peaceful meadows and deep woods, all of which work together to provide a kayaking experience like no other. Additionally, this river is rated as Class I and as Class II, which means you can enjoy smooth waters as well as small rapids, making it a good choice for beginners and younger paddlers. There are several outfitters in the area, our personal favorite is River Of Life Farm. For more information, click here.

The Current River

The current river is one of the most beautiful water trails in the Midwest.  With crystal clear water, towering bluffs, and several caves right on the water. The Current River is spring fed and moves through stunning Ozark landscapes, with bluffs ranging in height from 12 feet to 200 feet. The water has a constant year round temperature of 58 degrees.  Which makes it one of only a few places, you can kayak in the middle of winter. A float trip on the Current River is an experience you won’t forget. There are several great options to access the river.   The most scenic section, stretches from Cedar Grove to Round Springs, about 29 miles. Current River Canoe Rental is our favorite outfitter in the area. For more information, click here.

The Upper Iowa River

Located in northern Iowa just south of the Minnesota border is the  Iowa River.  This section of river was featured in National Geographic Magazine and listed as one of the top 100 adventures in North America.   Much of your float will take place along 200 foot high bluffs,  with beautiful old bridges crossing the river above your head.  This is a  perfect destination if your looking for a little adventure. Canoeing the Upper Iowa River is truly a one of a kind experience. Randy’s Bluffton Store provides kayak rentals and shuttle service. For more information, click here.

The Illinois River

At Starved Rock State Park visitors can take an incredible kayak tour through the canyons and past the tall sandstone bluffs that this park is known for. It’s an unforgettable adventure at one of the best state parks in Illinois. Along the shoreline of the Illinois River lie the towering St. Peter sandstone bluffs and deep water canyons that are best seen from the water.  This trip will lead you to some of the best spots along the water in one of the most memorable experiences you can have in Illinois. For more information, click here.

The Maquoketa River

A trip down the Maquoketa River will take you past Pictured Rocks Park, and several other scenic locations. This is a more relaxing, day in the sun type of float.  The landscape along the Maquoketa River is beautiful Iowa forest, and towering rock bluffs.  There are several sand bars along the river which are perfect for stopping for picnics or taking a dip in the river to cool off.  This is a family friendly type of float, the current is usually mild, and the river is not too deep so its a great place the kids to swim. Need a shuttle service or to rent a kayak or tube, click here.

The Cedar Valley Paddlers Loop Trail

The Cedar Valley Paddlers Trail Loop is Iowa’s first designated water trail. The trail begins within George Wyth State Park in Waterloo Iowa. The park is located at 3659 Wyth Rd, in Waterloo, Iowa. For more information, click here.  Cedar Valley Paddler’s Trail is a loop that connects the Cedar River, George Wyth State Park, and Hartman Reserve Nature Center. The trail consists of 8.4 miles of water and 1.6 miles of soft trail for portage. The trail consists of one main loop with some smaller offshoot options to lengthen or shorten your experience. This 10 mile excursion travels through the chain of lakes, down the Cedar River, through George Wyth State Park before returning to the start.

The Chicago River

Looking for an unforgettable experience? Look no further.  The Fireworks Tour at Kayak Chicago is the perfect combination of adventure and relaxation. It’s this reason the tour has become one of the most popular, with kayak enthusiasts traveling from all over the world to take part in this amazing float. This legendary tour lasts 3 hours and is only available on Wednesday and Saturday nights from Memorial Day through Labor Day. The tour begins near the North Branch of the Chicago River, on the peaceful back channel of Goose Island.  From there you will travel down stream through the heart of Chicago past some of the most iconic buildings on Earth! For more information, click here.

The Devil’s Millhopper State Park

In the midst of North Florida’s sandy terrain and pine forests, a bowl-shaped cavity 120 feet deep leads down to a miniature rain forest. Devil’s Millhopper Geological State Park is located at 4732 Millhopper Road in Gainesville Florida. For more information, click here.

Burgess Falls State Park

Located on the Falling Water River, this day-use park is noted for its natural beauty and four waterfalls that cascade down from over 250 feet in elevation. The last of these falls is the most spectacular, plunging more than 130 feet into the gorge. The Burgess Falls trail is one of the most popular in the park, it’s a 1.6 mile out and back trail with an incredible  view of the waterfall. Keep in mind this is a day use only park, and no camping is permitted.  Burgess Falls State Park  is located at 4000 Burgess Falls Dr, Sparta, TN. For more information, click here.

Cummins Falls State Park

Cummins Falls State Park is an idyllic, but rugged, 282-acre day-use park located nine miles north of Cookeville on the Blackburn Fork State Scenic River on the Eastern Highland Rim. Located in the Cordell Hull Watershed, the area has been a scenic spot and swimming hole for local residents of Jackson and Putnam counties for more than 100 years. Cummins Falls is Tennessee’s eighth largest waterfall in volume of water and is 75 feet high. No camping is allowed at Cummins Falls, however, cabins and camping are offered at Standing Stone State Park and Edgar Evins State Park .  Cummins Falls State Park is located at 390 Cummins Falls Ln, Cookeville, TN. For more information, click here.

Rock Island State Park

Rock Island State Park is an 883-acre park located on the headwaters of Center Hill Lake at the confluence of the Caney Fork, Collins and Rocky Rivers.  The rugged beauty of the park includes the Caney Fork Gorge below Great Falls Dam. The Caney Fork River Gorge contains scenic overlooks, waterfalls, deep pools and limestone paths perfect for hiking, swimming, fishing, kayaking, and exploring. The park has two campgrounds offering 60 different campsites that can accommodate RVs, trailers, and tents. 10 cabins are also available to rent.  Rock Island State Park is located at 82 Beach Road Rock Island, TN. For more information, click here.

Carter Caves State Park

Carter Caves State Resort Park is a geological wonder both above ground and below! This park has everything, literally! I have never seen a park with so many amenities as Carter Caves State Resort Park. To give you an example; the park has tennis courts, restaurants,  cave tours, camping, hiking trails, gem mining, mini golf, fishing and so so much more! Carter Caves State Resort Park is located at 344 Caveland Drive in Olive Hill, Kentucky. For more information, click here.

Cumberland Falls State Park

Cumberland Falls in Corbin Kentucky is a stunning piece of Kentucky’s landscape and a sight everyone should see. Often called the “Niagara of the South,” it’s an unexpected rush of beauty tucked into the breathtaking Kentucky landscape. Another feature that truly makes Cumberland Falls unique is its rare moonbow. This rare phenomenon is not found anywhere else in the Western Hemisphere, and can only be seen on certain nights of the year. Check out the website for Cumberland Falls State Resort Park here.

Natural Bridge State Park

Natural Bridge State Resort Park is a Kentucky state park located in Powell and Wolfe Counties along the Middle Fork of the Red River, adjacent to the Red River Gorge Geologic Area and surrounded by the Daniel Boone National Forest. Its namesake natural bridge is the centerpiece of the park. Hiking, Kayaking, Fishing, and camping are popular activities enjoyed within the park. There is even a sky lift for a more relaxing climb to the natural bridge. For more information, click here.

Pedernales Falls State Park

At Pedernales Falls State Park, you can camp, hike, mountain bike, picnic, geocache, bird watch and ride horses. On the river, you can swim, wade, tube or fish. Look for local wildlife and plants at the bird blind and butterfly garden. Pedernales Falls State Park is located at 2585 Park Road 6026, in Johnson City, Texas. For more information, click here.

Tallulah Gorge State Park

One of the most spectacular canyons in the eastern U.S., Tallulah Gorge is two miles long and nearly 1,000 feet deep. Visitors can hike rim trails to several overlooks, or they can obtain a permit to hike to the gorge floor. A suspension bridge sways 80 feet above the rocky bottom, providing spectacular views of the river and waterfalls. Tallulah Gorge State Park is located at 338 Jane Hurt Yarn Drive in Tallulah Falls, Georgia. For more information, click here.

Little River Canyon

Beautiful waterfalls, breath-taking overlooks, wooded trails, and peaceful picnic areas – Little River Canyon has something for everyone. The Little River is unique because it flows for most of its length atop Lookout Mountain in northeast Alabama. The 15,288 acre preserve spans from Fort Payne, Alabama down to Cedar Bluff, Alabama. The Visitor Center is located on AL Hwy 35. The entrance is located on the left just before you cross the AL Hwy 35 Bridge (Fort Payne side). For more information, click here. Little River Canyon is made up of forested uplands, waterfalls, canyon rims and bluffs, pools, boulders, and sandstone cliffs offer settings for a variety of recreational activities. Little River Canyon is open year-round from sunrise to sunset! This is a day use only park and camping is prohibited.

One of the most spectacular canyons in the eastern U.S., Tallulah Gorge is two miles long and nearly 1,000 feet deep. Tallulah Gorge State Park is located at 338 Jane Hurt Yarn Drive in Tallulah Falls, Georgia. For more information, click here.

Tallulah Gorge’s trails are strenuous, so hydrate before your visit. Bring at least 32 oz. of water if hiking the staircase or gorge floor. Water filling stations and bottled water are available in the interpretive center. Free permits are required to access the gorge floor and can be obtained at the Interpretive Center on the day of your visit. Visitors must wear proper footwear—no flip-flops or Crocs. Permits will not be issued after 4 p.m.

Visitors can hike rim trails to several overlooks, or they can obtain a permit to hike to the gorge floor (100 per day, not available during water releases). A suspension bridge sways 80 feet above the rocky bottom, providing spectacular views of the river and waterfalls.

The park has 50 campsites, (tent, trailer, and RV sites are available) there is also a nice sandy beach, and a 63 acre lake. For picnics the park has one shelter pavilion, a visitors center and two playgrounds.

Tallulah Gorge State Park is only 473 acres, however the park has so much to see and enjoy. The park is open daily from 8 a.m.–Dark. Tallulah Gorge’s trails are strenuous, so hydrate before your visit. Bring at least 32 oz. of water if hiking the staircase or gorge floor. Water filling stations and bottled water are available in the interpretive center.

For more nearby parks and amazing locations, click here. Looking for nearby lodging or campgrounds, click here. For the best family activities in the area, click here.

The River Bungalow Cabin at River of Life Farm is a perfect romantic getaway destination! The River of Life Farm property is located at 1746 River of Life Drive in Dora, Missouri. You can book and check availability by clicking here.

The River Bungalow Cabin is the perfect secluded spot for a honeymoon, romantic anniversary, vacation, or just a few days away for the two of you.

This luxurious bungalow can sleep 2 adults in it’s hand-crafted king size bed. With the large whirlpool tub, this is a perfect place for a romantic getaway! At the end of the day you can relax with a fire in front of the native stone fireplace!

The cabin has all the comforts of home, just with better scenery! River Bungalow Cabin has a fully equipped kitchen, air conditioning, and many other amenities.

Guests of the River Bungalow Cabin can enjoy many activities. The hiking trails at River of Life Farm cover more than 500 acres of Ozark beauty! You’ll enjoy a gorgeous view of the North Fork River from Inspiration Point, a 3/4 mile hike from your cabin. The trail is well marked and at a gentle enough incline for almost anyone to make the trip.

This is also a perfect location for canoeing and kayaking! The North Fork River is a beautiful destination and a day on the water is a perfect way to enjoy your stay! Anglers will also enjoy world class fishing! The river is well known for for trout and small mouth bass!

Or maybe you just want to stay inside and enjoy the views. If that’s the case be sure to schedule a therapeutic massage. Just imagine getting massaged on the deck of your cabin while enjoying the relaxing sounds of the forest around you! When you make your cabin reservation, be sure to schedule a therapeutic massage, you can find more information on this here.

If your looking for the perfect vacation destination with a nice balance of relaxation and adventure you found it at River of Life Farms. The River Bungalow Cabin is an unbelievable lodging option and provides a wonderful setting for a weekend away with that special someone!