Road Trips from Joplin, MO
Where to drive next — curated by how much time you have and what you're in the mood for.
Total Routes
20
Shortest
2.6h
With Parks Nearby
13
Full-day getaway
8 total in this range
California, MO
3h 57m197.6 mi one way
Buckner, MO
3h 19m164.7 mi one way
Warrensburg, MO
3h 21m161.5 mi one way
Belton, MO
2h 35m137.2 mi one way
East Independence, MO
3h 6m154.6 mi one way
Weekend trip
12 total in this range
Columbia, MO
4h 35m236.1 mi one way
Jefferson City, MO
4h205.3 mi one way
Center, MO
5h 37m289.9 mi one way
Malden, MO
5h 56m288.8 mi one way
Centralia, MO
5h 2m255.4 mi one way
Browse by Mood
California, MO
3h 57m197.6 mi one way
Columbia, MO
4h 35m236.1 mi one way
Jefferson City, MO
4h205.3 mi one way
Center, MO
5h 37m289.9 mi one way
Columbia, MO
4h 35m236.1 mi one way
Warrensburg, MO
3h 21m161.5 mi one way
St. Louis, MO
5h 21m284.4 mi one way
When to Go
Spring
Long daylight returns and parks begin peak bloom.
Summer
Fewer closures but plan for heat and heavier traffic.
Fall
Cooler temps and foliage make it the underrated season here.
Winter
Shorter days — prioritize shorter drives or southbound routes.
Starting Somewhere Else?
Other nearby cities with their own escape planners.
Ready to plan?
Pick any destination above for full turn-by-turn directions, fuel cost, rest stops, and weather. Or visit the Joplin, MO city hub for all incoming and outgoing routes.