The Ozarks has always been known for its beauty. Lush deciduous forests, expansive lakes and myriad snaking rivers and streams are everywhere you turn, so it’s easy to see why tourists come from all over to experience the scenery of the area.
For those visiting, planning to — or for locals — here is a list of some of the beautiful parks that are accessible from Sparky’s convenient stops in the historic Downtown Branson area.
From Stop #1 you can reach Lakeside RV Park. With 160 sites, all with hookups, it’s the largest camper park in the area. It really is lakeside, with fishing docks on Taneycomo Lake just steps from the campsites. The park also features a leash-free dog park, free wireless internet and cable hookups, clubhouse, shower house and laundry building!
From Stop #2, the Branson Landing/ Bass Pro stop, you can take a short walk along the waterside boardwalk to the gorgeous Branson Landing Fountain. In the traditional green grass and picnic tables sense, it’s not a park. However, it’s the most spectacular water/fire/light/music show you’ll see this side of the Bellagio fountains in Las Vegas! Coincidentally, both fountains were designed and built by the same company. Bet you didn’t know that. So no picnic tables here but there is plenty of seating and room for the whole family. The show times and songs change seasonally and can usually be found posted online here and on a sign by the fountain itself. Shows are typically at the top of each hour.
From Stop #4 you’ll find the cutest little park in the entire city. Epps Park is only about a block away from the trolley stop (across Veterans Boulevard). The park is only 0.1 acre and has a covered seating area. This quaint little spot is perfect for a picnic or solitude and is located near city hall. The park is open from 6:00 am till 11:00 pm.
From Stop #12 you’ll find Branson’s newest addition to historic downtown, Liberty Plaza. It’s $4 million construction was finished in late summer 2017. It covers half a city block and features a performance stage that can be rented and used for intimate gatherings like small weddings, outdoor ceremonies, performances and such. A heated and cooled public restroom was added. You will find the “typical” park amenities here: picnic tables, grills, and benches.
From Stop #6, the Belk/Branson Landing stop, you will find a wonderful walking path through North Beach Park. It connects to the Branson Landing, so you can visit the famous fountain and stop for a shopping spree afterward! It’s been recently renovated as well, par with the Branson Landing project, and reopened last year. It has 2 new trout fishing docks on Lake Taneycomo, new Barbecue grills, picnic tables and new horseshoe pits.
So hop aboard Sparky and explore Downtown Branson’s amazing parks, all for free!