Recreation & Amenities

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The Gateway to the Ozarks

Good quality of place allows communities to thrive. That's why we work hard to provide unique and engaging experiences for residents and visitors of all ages.

Nixa Community Center

The Nixa Community Center (The X-Center) is the home base for the Nixa Parks and Recreation Department. Located on the 40 acre McCauley Park, the X-Center offers a host of outdoor activities such as a playground, 18-hole disc golf course, soccer fields, and walking path. The X-Center offers a full line fitness center, multipurpose gymnasium, indoor walking track, meeting rooms, and more. Residents may also be interested in the high-quality, affordable memberships, youth sports, and enrichment programs for the community. For a full list of program offerings and other parks, click here.

Here's a few things you'll want to check out in Christian County:

PARKS & AMENITIES ENTERTAINMENT OUTDOOR RECREATION

PARKS & AMENITIES

Ozark Community Center

The Ozark Community Center (The OC) is the glue that holds the Ozark Parks Department together. With state-of-the-art exercise equipment, an indoor aquatic center, and quality community classes ranging from yoga to dance, The OC offers families a a wide variety of recreational opportunities. The OC is also the starting location for the Bluff Spring Trails, which extend along the Finley River and make for the perfect Sunday afternoon hike. To learn more about the Ozark Parks Department, click here.

Nixa Community Center

The Nixa Community Center (The X Center) is the home base for the Nixa Parks and Recreation Department. It is located on a 40 acre park (McCauley Park) that offers a host of outdoor activities such as a playground, 18-hole disc golf course, soccer fields, walking path, and seasonal restrooms. The X Center offers a full line fitness center, multipurpose gymnasium, indoor walking track, meeting rooms, and so much more. The X Center offers community-focused, high-quality, affordable memberships, youth sports, and enrichment programs for the community. For a full list of program offerings and other parks, click here.

Christian County Library

With branches in Ozark, Nixa, Sparta, and Clever, the Christian County Library offers not only free reading and learning materials in all formats, but also a variety of other community services. Visitors may have access to notary services, meeting spaces, and the Library of Things (including rentable bakeware, musical instruments, fishing gear, and more). The library also hosts a plethora of community events across all four branches, such as storytimes, craft programs, and concerts. Online learning resources in business, technology, and personal development are also available for residents and entrepreneurs. To learn more about the Christian County Library, click here.

ENTERTAINMENT

OUTDOOR RECREATION

OUTDOOR RECREATION IN THE COUNTY

Finley River

Located in the heart of Ozark, the Finley River is another popular destination for those who enjoy exploring the outdoors. Fishing, canoeing, and kayaking are only a sampling of the recreational opportunities for visitors. The Finley River was what powered the Ozark Mill, which is still in working condition and is set to become the location of a new tourist destination, the Finley Farms.

James River

From fishing to kayaking, the James River offers a quiet and serene experience for families and avid sportspeople. A portion of the James River is also considered a section of the Ozark Greenways Trail. This six mile stretch goes from Joe Crighton Access to Springfield Lake boathouse, where the public can rent a canoe, kayak, or paddleboard.

Two Rivers Bike Park

Two Rivers Bike Park is a purpose-built, multi-use trail system, boasting over 14 miles of professionally built and maintained singletrack twisting through pristine Ozarks terrain for mountain bikers, runners, and hikers to enjoy year round, free of charge. The nearly 400-acre park sits just off the scenic Finley and James River confluence, right on the edge of the Christian County and Stone County border.

Busiek State Forest and Wildlife Area

Just over 2,700 acres of trails and wildlife observation, Busiek State Forest and Wildlife Area offers a place for wildlife watchers, hikers, bikers, campers, and horse back riders to enjoy the beautiful amenities of the Ozarks. The forest also provides a firearms shooting range for firearms owners to use for target practice.

Wilson's Creek National Battlefield

Image courtesy of Wilson's Creek National Battlefield.

Wilson's Creek National Battlefield, situated across Christian County and Greene County, Missouri, commemorates the decisive Battle of Wilson's Creek during the Civil War. Its picturesque trails wind through the historic landscape, offering opportunities for walking, biking, and horseback riding. Maintained by the Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield Foundation, these trails provide a unique glimpse into the past while showcasing the natural beauty of the region. As stewards of this significant landmark, the Foundation remains dedicated to preserving artifacts, enriching educational programs, and fostering community engagement. Whether exploring history or enjoying outdoor recreation, Wilson's Creek National Battlefield invites visitors to experience the unique blend of heritage and nature in southwest Missouri. Learn more

Chadwick Motorcycle and ATV Use Area

The Chadwick Motorized Trails System, situated near Chadwick, Missouri, offers approximately 80 miles of multi-use trails designed for off-road motorcycle and ATV enthusiasts, winding through rugged terrain and wooded landscapes. Riders of all skill levels can enjoy an exciting adventure without backtracking, encountering advanced challenges along the way. Camping facilities nearby provide convenient accommodations. Off-trail travel is permitted only in designated areas within the 12 square mile national forest land, characterized by oak, hickory, and pine woods, rocky ridge tops, narrow hollows, and occasional rock ledges. Learn more

Outdoor Recreation in the Region

Mark Twain National Forest

Only a few hours to our East, families can find the Mark Twain National Forest. With over 750 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, this national forest offers visitors with a wide array of recreational activities. The forest is also home to more than 350 miles of perennial streams, which are suitable for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. Those looking for places to camp will find scenic, safe campgrounds that are perfect for families.

Tablerock Lake

One of the more popular outdoor tourist destinations in the Branson area is Table Rock Lake. The lake, which extends 79 miles upstream, is the perfect place for watersports, fishing, and relaxing. Not only does the lake offer activities on the water, it also includes 800 miles of shoreline for a family picnic, or relaxing in the sun.

Lake Springfield

The Lake Springfield Park is a 158 acre area that features trails, woods, and shoreline, all surrounding Lake Springfield. Visitors are able to rent canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards at the Lake Springfield Boathouse.

Fremont Hills Country Club

Nestled just between Ozark and Nixa, the Fremont Hills Country Club is the premier spot for golf in Christian County. To learn more about memberships or setting up a tee time, click here.

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