Located in central Missouri, about 25 miles southeast of the Lake of the Ozarks and 40 miles from Jefferson City, Panther Creek Campground and Horse Trails offers abundant trail riding and comfortable horse camping amid natural beauty, with access to 4,000 acres of trails, with scenic overlooks, large meadows, rocky ravines, and winding wooded trails. Nearby is the Osage River. If you prefer to drive your horse, the area also has more than 30 miles of trails accessible to teams and wagons.
Panther Creek Campground and Horse Trails, Tuscumbia, Missouri
Closest city: Jefferson City, Missouri.
Travel distance: 40 miles.
Directions from Jefferson City: Take U.S. Route 63 south to Vienna. Turn right on Highway 42, just past the Break Time Station. Turn north on Highway 17. Turn right on Route A, and go about four miles. Turn left on Humphrey Creek Rd. (the road sign will be on the right), and go about one mile. Turn left at the ranch entrance, and follow the road back to the campground.
History: Panther Creek Campground and Horse Trails was established in 1999. The first full year of scheduled rides was in 2000. The ranch prides itself on having a down-home, friendly atmosphere.
Your hosts: Dave and Theresa Fleming.
Terrain: The Osage River area, four miles from Panther Creek, features diverse native plants, animals, and scenic areas. It offers some of the largest springs in the region and a number of caves. You’ll find grass prairies, rich forests, barren glades, hills, and crystal-clear streams. Many of the natural areas are managed and protected for their scientific, educational, and historic value.
Amenities: Each campsite has access to electric and their own water hydrant. There are about 96 hook-up locations with electricity and water. Showers are available. Panther Creek also offers 176 stalls, all covered, near lights and water. A rustic, 4,000-square-foot dining hall features homemade meals. Reserve campsites and stalls in advance.
Map: Visit www.panthercreektrailrides.com/info/trails.php.
Top rides: Panther Creek offers 4,000 acres to enjoy on horseback. Although the facility holds a number of scheduled rides using ranch mounts, horse owners are welcome to ride the ranch’s miles of wooded trails, which include scenic overlooks, large meadows, and rocky ravines. Horse camping is also available.
Contact: Panther Creek Campground and Trail Rides; (573) 793-2372;
www.panthercreektrailrides.com.
