Affordable Missouri Summer Vacation Trips Perfect for Families

When I speak of Missouri families who would love to have a great vacation, but need to limit themselves to a strict budget, I speak from experience. I've done my own research for my own family and have found the most affordable destinations where you can have the most fun without breaking the bank.

I have good news. The number one option for a family vacation in Missouri also happens to be one of the most popular areas in the state. There is no doubt in my mind that the top recommendation is Lake of the Ozarks. Their official website is "fun lake" for a reason:

• Free or cheap activities everywhere (beaches, hiking, fishing)
• Huge outdoor playground with 17,000+ acres, trails, and swimming beaches
• Affordable lodging options like campgrounds, cabins, and budget resorts

You can swim at public beaches which don't require hardly any money to enter no matter how many children you have. There's also the Ha Ha Tonka Ruins that are a kid favorite. If you don't mind splurging a little extra, you can rent a boat for your family for a day. Relatively small investment with a big fun payoff.

The runner-up for best budget-friendly family vacation spot in Missouri would have to be Branson. Why?

• Tons of kid-friendly shows, attractions, and activities
• Free stuff like Branson Landing fountains & walking areas
• Nearby lakes for swimming and fishing
• Often has package deals for families

My mom and dad took me to Branson when I was a kid in the era before Wayne Newton and others arrived. Back then, it was less glitzy, but there was still a ton to do within a very small travel radius. I remember we played probably 3 or 4 mini-golf courses and karting places all within walking distance. With the price of fuel these days, that kind of nearby walking distance entertainment is key.

I'd also be remiss if I didn't mention my birthplace of Hannibal. If you're not a fan of the Vegas-style shows of Branson, you won't have to deal with any of that in Hannibal. It's another great Missouri place where you can park in one spot downtown and walk around and adventure the rest of the day and not be bored. Along with the historic Mark Twain locations downtown, also have Mark Twain Cave, the riverboat and many affordable places to eat downtown. If you don't mind a half-hour drive, you can road-trip to Mark Twain Lake for a few hours of lake and beach fun.

The truth is that Missouri has many family-friendly vacation destinations that won't cost you an arm and a leg especially when you factor in all of the state parks. Say what you want about Missouri, but lack of vacation options isn't something anyone can complain about.