A Weekend Away From St. Louis at Blue Springs Ranch
If you’re tired of traffic noise, swap it out for the cozy crackle of a burning campfire under the Missouri sky. Located about an hour down I-44 in Bourbon, Missouri, is Blue Springs Ranch, a 150-acre outdoor resort situated on the banks of the Upper Meramec River.
In operation since 1988, Blue Springs Ranch offers on-site lodging options and signature float trips that are a hit for families, adventure seekers, and groups alike. Here’s what you’ll encounter in and around the area.
Where to Stay at Blue Springs Ranch
Forget about a day trip. At Blue Springs Ranch, there are lodging options tailored for every occasion, no matter the shape or size of your crew.
Church groups, weddinggoers, and guests gathering for family reunions can settle into our rustic ranch cabins, which accommodate up to 18 guests. Meanwhile, couples and families interested in frontier living (with a modern twist!) can book covered wagons.
For a budget-friendly Ozarks adventure, park your RV at one of our full-hookup pull-throughs or reserve a tent site, available with or without utility hook-ups.
Whether you’re planning a corporate team-building retreat, leading a summer camp for your kids, chaperoning a homeschool outing, or organizing an RV rally, there’s an accommodation fit for your weekend at Blue Springs Ranch.
What to Do at Blue Springs Ranch
Every stay at Blue Springs Ranch starts at the General Store, where you’ll register for your resort pass and get connected to our complimentary on-site Wi-Fi.
Forget something? No worries. The General Store is stocked with camping essentials, snacks, souvenirs, tees, caps, and water shoes, so you can leave with all the equipment you need. We also carry fishing poles, worms, and limited tackle, along with a small selection of canned beer and cocktails.
Please note that we do not sell fishing licenses; you must buy yours from the Missouri Department of Conservation before you arrive.
When you’re ready for a bite, head over to Buster’s Grill, our on-site food truck. Signature items include our smashburger topped with our special Blue Springs Ranch burger sauce, which you can pair with a side of pickle fries, onion rings, cheese curds, and more.
Once you’ve grabbed your grub and gear, head over to the banks of the Upper Meramec River for a river float trip. We offer three routes:
- The 1-Mile Tube Loop: Takes about an hour and is reserved exclusively for tubes.
- The 5 Mile Float: Takes between 3 and 5 hours and accommodates tubes, canoes, kayaks, and rafts.
- The 10 Mile Float: Takes roughly 10 hours and is designed for canoes and kayaks.
Visiting in September? Don’t miss our annual TNT Rodeo Weekend, a two-day event featuring live bull riding, barrel racing, local vendors, and live music under the Missouri skies. Our on-site rodeo arena is just steps away from our campsites and cabins, meaning you can walk back to your accommodation once the show ends.
And if you book a two-night stay during rodeo weekend, all guests in your group will receive 50% off a 5-mile float trip.
Don’t Miss the Rest of Bourbon, Missouri
While you’re here, don’t forget to explore surrounding attractions. A 10-minute drive brings you to our hometown of Bourbon, known for local landmarks like the Circle Inn Malt Shop and its vintage water tower built in 1931.
About 25 minutes down the road is Historic Cuba, known as “Route 66 Mural City” for its 14 outdoor murals and vintage charm. Also nearby is Onondaga Cave State Park, which spans more than 1,300 acres and features an underground cavern with lit pathways and incredible geological formations.
If you’re part of the 21-and-up crowd, take a quick trip down Historic Route 66 to St. James, the heart of Missouri Wine Country. Sample a glass or two and bring back a bottle from St. James Winery, Prairie Barn Winery & Christmas Tree Farm, Eagles’ Landing Wine, or Spencer Manor Winery.
Whether you’re visiting the Ozarks to float the Upper Meramec, trek through state parks, or gather for an action-packed rodeo weekend, make Blue Springs Ranch your home base for your upcoming reset from city life.
