Every fall, Pierce City in Barry County, Missouri, hosts the Barry County Outdoor Expo, a dynamic gathering for those who crave open-air adventure and practical outdoor skills. It’s more than an event—it’s an invitation to engage directly with the rugged landscapes and outdoor culture of the Ozarks region. The Expo offers a range of activities from guided hikes and archery demonstrations to fishing clinics and hands-on survival workshops, providing a well-rounded preview of what the Missouri outdoors demands and rewards.

The terrain around Pierce City is gently rolling with pockets of dense forest, open fields, and clear streams that challenge and invite exploration. Hikes during the Expo usually range from 2 to 5 miles, with elevation changes between 200 and 500 feet, making them accessible for both casual walkers and more seasoned hikers. Trails wind through oak and hickory groves that shift in color and texture with the seasons, while nearby creeks dare visitors to pause and listen to their persistent rush.

One popular route near the Expo site includes a loop trail bordering the Spring River, known locally for its cool, impatient currents pushing downstream. The river’s banks open into sweeping views where the Ozark hills rise firmly against the horizon, reminding adventurers that this landscape is fiercely itself—wild and untamed but fair. Keep alert for wildlife, especially white-tailed deer and the occasional red-shouldered hawk circling overhead.

To prepare for the expo and its activities, a practical approach works best. Comfortable, broken-in hiking boots with good traction will keep you steady on mixed terrain, while layered, moisture-wicking clothing handles Missouri’s varying temperatures. Carry at least two liters of water, especially if you plan on joining a full day of events, and consider a lightweight backpack to hold essentials including a first-aid kit and weather-ready outerwear.

Timing your visit is crucial. The event generally occurs in early October, when temperatures are crisp but not cold, and the forest shows hints of fall color without the chill of deep autumn. Morning sessions often have a quiet fog hanging low, making the forest come alive in shades of gray and green, while afternoons offer bright skies perfect for spotting wildlife and snapping photos.

Whether your interest is skill-building, exploration, or simply connecting to the outdoors in a welcoming community setting, the Barry County Outdoor Expo delivers. It keeps the spirit of adventure grounded in clear, achievable steps, inviting every attendee to meet the land as it is—full of challenge, beauty, and place.