From the serene trails of Mingo National Wildlife Refuge to the family-friendly spaces of Boon Park in Dexter, the county is home to some of Southeast Missouri’s most scenic outdoor destinations. Discover bottomland hardwood forests, peaceful wetlands, open fields, and native prairies ideal for hiking, wildlife watching, photography, or simply relaxing.
Adventurers can explore miles of hiking and biking trails, paddle through tranquil waters, or enjoy seasonal outdoor fun like sledding, fishing, or birdwatching. Whether you’re looking to kayak at Otter Slough, take a picnic by a pond, or explore wildflowers at Bloomfield’s natural areas, there’s always something refreshing to experience.
Parks & Natural Areas
Mingo National Wildlife Refuge
Puxico, MO – Stoddard County
Discover over 21,000 acres of stunning wetlands, forests, and wildlife at Mingo National Wildlife Refuge, just minutes from Dexter. Perfect for birdwatching, hiking, scenic drives, and photography, Mingo offers year-round access to nature’s beauty.
📍 Located off MO-51 near Puxico
🕒 Open sunrise to sunset
🚶♀️ Trails, auto tours, fishing, seasonal hunting & more
Bring your binoculars this is one of Missouri’s top spots for wildlife viewing!
What Visitors Should Know:
Mingo National Wildlife Refuge is located off MO-51 between Puxico and Dexter. The main entrance is accessible via State Highway Z, just south of Puxico.
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Hours: The refuge is open sunrise to sunset year-round. The Visitor Center operates on a seasonal schedule, so check before visiting.
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Activities: Hiking, wildlife viewing, photography, canoeing, fishing, and hunting (in designated areas and seasons).
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Scenic Drive: The Ozark Highlands Auto Tour Route is a beautiful way to explore the refuge by car, with stops for trails and observation decks.
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Trails: Boardwalks and marked trails make it easy for families and casual hikers to explore the wetlands up close.
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Tips: Bring binoculars and a camera! Spring and fall offer the best wildlife viewing. Bug spray is recommended in warmer months.
Boon Park Universal Playground
📍 1219 W. Fannetta St., Dexter, MO
Experience inclusive play at Boon Park’s Universal Playground designed for children of all abilities. This vibrant, accessible space features wide-bottom and roller slides, supportive swings, a sensory maze, Braille panels, and parent-child swings. With shaded areas, textured surfaces, and flat safety surfacing, it’s a welcoming environment for everyone. The park also offers two pavilions, lighted tennis courts, a basketball court, updated restrooms, and picnic spots making it a perfect destination for family fun.
Active Experiences
🌿 Outdoor Recreation in Stoddard County
Cast. Paddle. Hike. Explore.
Stoddard County is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Kayaking, canoeing, and boating are popular ways to experience the county’s natural beauty up close.
For hunters, the region offers abundant opportunities during the season, with prime public land access and diverse game. Nature lovers can enjoy birdwatching, hiking scenic trails, or photographing native landscapes throughout the county’s conservation areas and parks.
Whether you’re chasing the thrill of the hunt or a peaceful day on the water, Stoddard County is your gateway to the great outdoors.
Top Fishing Spots:
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Otter Slough Conservation Area (Puxico)
Renowned for largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish. Great for boat or bank fishing. -
Lake Wappapello (Bordering the county)
Excellent crappie and catfish fishing with miles of shoreline and ramps. -
Mingo National Wildlife Refuge (North of Puxico)
Serene fishing in a protected setting. Federal regulations apply. -
Dexter City Lake (Dexter)
Family-friendly and stocked regularly with bass, catfish, and bluegill. -
Bloomfield City Lake (Bloomfield)
A quiet, local favorite with steady fishing action.
Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just looking for a relaxing day by the water, Stoddard County is home to some of Southeast Missouri’s best freshwater fishing spots. From quiet conservation areas to family-friendly city lakes, there’s a perfect place for everyone to drop a line and reel in the good times.
Kayaking & Hiking Trails:
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Paddle through the backwaters of Otter Slough or the peaceful sloughs in Mingo, where nature surrounds you on all sides.
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Mingo Boardwalk & Trails offer accessible paths through swamps and old-growth forests.
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Otter Slough Levees double as walking and wildlife-viewing trails.
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City parks in Dexter, Bloomfield, and Advance feature walking paths and nature trails perfect for a casual stroll or morning jog.
Tee Off in Stoddard County
Whether you’re playing a quick nine or competing in a weekend tournament, Hidden Trails offers a peaceful setting and small-town charm. The club also features a driving range, clubhouse amenities, and events throughout the year.
With beautiful surroundings and a laid-back pace, Stoddard County is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the game.
