Guide to Outdoor Activities Near Return to Roots
The urge to step outside and explore is a powerful one. It’s a chance to trade screen time for sunshine, digital noise for the sound of wind in the trees, and daily routines for the thrill of discovery. A stay at Return to Roots places you in the heart of western Missouri’s beautiful and surprisingly diverse landscape, making it the perfect basecamp for all your outdoor adventures.
Whether you're an avid hiker, a patient angler, a curious birdwatcher, or simply someone looking to breathe in some fresh air, the area surrounding Butler has something for you. This guide will serve as your compass, pointing you toward the best trails, fishing spots, and wildlife viewing opportunities. We’ll cover everything from on-site trails to nearby conservation areas, ensuring you can craft an adventure that perfectly fits your skill level and interests.
Hiking: Find Your Perfect Scenic Trail
From gentle strolls through the woods to expansive treks across native prairies, the region offers a variety of hiking experiences. Lace up your boots and get ready to explore.
On-Site Trails at Return to Roots
You don't have to go far to find a great walk. We've established a network of private trails right here on our property, designed for guests to enjoy at their leisure.
Woodland Loop: This gentle, well-marked trail winds through the oak-hickory forest surrounding our glamping sites. It’s perfect for a morning walk to sip your coffee or an evening stroll to stretch your legs. The path is relatively flat and suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
Best For: Outdoor enthusiasts looking for picturesque landscapes and a variety of activities. Families, casual walkers, and anyone seeking a quick and easy dose of nature.
What You'll See: You’re likely to spot white-tailed deer, squirrels, and a variety of resident birds like cardinals and woodpeckers.
Nearby Hiking Destination: Wah'Kon-Tah Prairie
Just a 30-minute drive south of Butler lies one of Missouri's most precious natural treasures: the perfect place for outdoor enthusiasts. Wah'Kon-Tah Prairie Conservation Area. This vast, 3,000-acre expanse of unplowed tallgrass prairie offers a glimpse into what the landscape looked like centuries ago.
The Experience: Hiking here is unlike a forest trail. The views are immense and open, stretching to the horizon under a massive sky, ideal for those who appreciate stunning views. The trails are generally mown paths that are flat and easy to navigate, making it more of a long walk than a strenuous hike. It's a place of profound peace and subtle beauty, perfect for hiking and mountain biking.
Best For: Nature photographers, birdwatchers, and anyone seeking solitude and wide-open spaces.
Planning Tip: Check for local winery events that complement your outdoor adventures. There is very little shade, so bring a wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water, especially in the summer. The best times to visit are morning and late afternoon to avoid midday heat.
Day Trip Adventure: Harry S. Truman State Park
For a more varied hiking experience, take an hour's drive east to Harry S. Truman State Park. The park boasts several trails that wind through lush forests and offer scenic bluff overlooks of Truman Lake.
Bluff Ridge Trail: This 2-mile loop is a local favorite. It offers a moderately challenging hike with some elevation changes, rewarding you with stunning panoramic views of the lake.
Best For: Hikers looking for a bit more of a workout and dramatic scenery. It’s also great for pet owners, as leashed pets are welcome on the trails.
Fishing and Paddling: Your Day on the Water
The gentle flow of a creek or the calm surface of a lake has a unique way of soothing the soul. The Butler area provides several opportunities to cast a line or dip a paddle.
Nearby Fishing Spots
Bates County Public Lake: A perfect starting point for exploring the trail system nearby. Located just a few minutes from Return to Roots, this small, quiet lake is a fantastic spot for a relaxed afternoon of fishing, surrounded by stunning views. It's stocked with largemouth bass, channel catfish, and sunfish. It’s easily accessible and perfect for bank fishing.
Marais des Cygnes River: This river system flows through Bates County and offers opportunities for catching catfish, crappie, and bass. There are several public access points where outdoor enthusiasts can try their luck from the bank.
Truman Lake: As one of Missouri’s largest lakes, Truman Lake is a major destination for serious anglers. It’s renowned for its crappie and largemouth bass populations. You can find numerous boat ramps and marinas around the lake for access.
Planning and Permits
A valid Missouri fishing permit is required for anyone over 15. You can easily purchase one online through the Missouri Department of Conservation website. Be sure to check local regulations for specific lakes, including daily limits and length requirements.
Paddling and Kayaking
While smaller spots like Bates County Lake are suitable for a calm kayak or canoe paddle, Truman Lake offers the most expansive opportunities. You can explore quiet coves and inlets, getting a unique perspective of the shoreline and its wildlife. Several local outfitters offer rentals if you don't have your own boat.
Birding: A Guide to Local Hotspots
The mix of prairie, forest, and wetlands in this region creates a rich habitat for a wide variety of birds. Whether you’re a seasoned birder with a life list or a curious beginner, there’s always something to see in this picturesque area.
Birding Hotspots
Wah'Kon-Tah Prairie: This is a designated Important Bird Area (IBA) and a must-visit for birders, offering a variety of activities for all skill levels. It’s one of the few places to see the Greater Prairie-Chicken. In spring and summer, listen for the songs of Dickcissels, Eastern Meadowlarks, and various sparrows. In the winter, it’s a great place to spot Northern Harriers and Short-eared Owls.
Return to Roots Property: Keep your binoculars handy right at your glamping site. Our mix of forest and open areas attracts a great diversity of species. Look for Red-bellied Woodpeckers, Northern Cardinals, Blue Jays, Tufted Titmice, and listen for the hoot of Barred Owls at night. In the spring, you’ll see migratory songbirds passing through.
Four Rivers Conservation Area: About a 45-minute drive away, this large wetland complex is a paradise for waterfowl and shorebirds, especially during the spring and fall migrations. Look for ducks, geese, herons, egrets, and even American White Pelicans.
Birding Gear and Tips
Essential Gear: A good pair of binoculars is the most important tool. A field guide or a bird identification app (like Merlin Bird ID or Audubon) can help you identify what you see.
Best Times: The first few hours after sunrise and the last few hours before sunset are when birds are most active.
Be Patient and Quiet: Find a comfortable spot and wait quietly. The more you blend into the environment, the more you will see.
Your Adventure Begins Here
The beauty of a stay at Return to Roots is that adventure is always just outside your door, with guided tours available for those who want to explore. You can design a day that is as active or as relaxed as you wish—a strenuous hike followed by a quiet evening of stargazing, or a leisurely morning of birdwatching from your private deck. This landscape is rich with opportunities to explore, discover, and reconnect with the natural world. So pack your daypack, grab your water bottle, and step outside. Your next adventure is waiting.
