With high gas prices keeping outdoor travelers closer to home these days, here are four Branson, Missouri parks where you can enjoy a wide range of recreational activities that you might not expect to find so close to an urban setting. And you won't break the bank getting there.

Table Rock State Park

Located adjacent to Table Rock Lake and near Branson, Missouri, Table Rock State Park offers easy lake access and is a short drive to area attractions and entertainment. The public marina is equipped and ready to outfit the visitor eager to explore the lake. Boat rentals, including personal watercrafts such as WaveRunners, pontoon boats, ski boats and fishing boats are available, and all the supplies needed for the trip are stocked. Those seeking a bit more adventure can check out the scuba dive shop, try a parasailing ride or take an excursion on a 48-foot catamaran.

Located among oak and hickory trees, two camping areas wind along the shoreline allowing easy access to the lake. The shady campgrounds include basic, electric only and sewer/water/electric campsites, modern restrooms, showers and coin-operated laundry rooms. Scattered near the lakeshore are numerous picnic sites. An open picnic shelter, perfect for family reunions and get-togethers, can be reserved by contacting the park office. Although there is not a designated beach, visitors can swim in several areas of the park.

Stockstill Park

This very popular 62-acre park is a hub for adults and children alike. The park, which sits along Roark Creek, hosts softball and tennis leagues for all ages on its two softball fields and six tennis courts. Two large children’s playgrounds can be found crawling with kids all the time. Throughout the park, four separate covered pavilions are a popular community place for family picnics. A paved walking trail surrounds the park and facilities also include a lighted soccer field and a skate park.

Alexander and Sunset Park

Alexander Park and Sunset Park, only a short walk from one another, are conveniently located along Lake Taneycomo. Alexander Park is home to two connected baseball fields, hosting everything from tee-ball to little league to soccer games. There are tennis courts, a picnic pavilion, and a playground. Sunset Park is only a few hundred feet away, and is home to a 9-hole disc golf course and a 0.6-mile walking path.


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