Green Space

Mt. Vernon's centralized location places it within an afternoon drive of two lakes, the nationally recognized tourist spot of Branson and several major cities. In many ways this is why Mt. Vernon is often referred to as the "starting line" for the Ozark Mountain Parkway, the scenic route along Highway 265 toward Branson.

One of the unique traits about the city, however, is the number of activities that families or individuals can enjoy without having to drive past the city limit signs.

Mt. Vernon residents and city officials are proud of their park facilities, seven in all. The largest park in the city can be found north of the downtown area. The "Underwood Spirit of 76" park complex features an Olympic-sized pool, four baseball fields, tennis courts and a "Mighty Mite" football field, along with a picnic area that winds along the tranquil waters of Williams Creek.  Don't miss the walking trails for a bit of fresh air.

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Additional Mt. Vernon Parks and Places of Interest

Jones Memorial and Chapel
Jones Memorial and Chapel, built in 1961 as a "thank you" to the people by Lawrence K. Jones, is located northeast of town, adjacent to the golf course. The stone building houses a wedding chapel and meeting hall and the Lawrence County Historical Society Museum.  The museum and cabin are open from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Sundays from Memorial Day weekend through October and by appointment. You can rent this local landmark for your meeting, wedding or other special event. For more information please call 417-466-2185.
Williams Creek Fishing Pond
Located just across from the "Underwood Spirit of '76" park is the Williams Creek Fishing Pond, which offers handicapped accessible fishing piers and a popular walking path as well as a spacious picnic area.
Wynne Park
The site of Mt. Vernon's Veteran's Memorial, Wynne Park is located on the business loop next to the caboose and Chamber of Commerce and provides a walking trail, playground equipment and a picnic area.
Gibbs Park
Named after the family who donated the land, Gibbs Park near the downtown Square offers a pavilion and various playground equipment for children. There is also a proposed skate-park in the works for added recreational opportunities.  An account has been opened at Simmons Bank if you would like to contribute to this project.  

Gary Ewing Park
Nestled in big shade trees, the Gary Ewing Park is a perfect spot for family and community gatherings. It is located on the east side of the city's 9-hole golf course. Park benches and a covered pavilion are provided.
Golf Course
Mt. Vernon's golf course, located in the northeast portion of town has a 9-hole course, clubhouse and golf cart storage. Call 417-466-7831 for more information.
The Adamson Cabin
This cabin is one of the few remaining authentic pioneer homes found in the region.It was constructed in 1845, the same year the county was founded, and was moved to its present location next to Jones Memorial on N. East Street. Admission is free.
2nd Old Jail
The city's "2nd old jail," was built in 1854, is located a block west of the downtown Square and will eventually become the city's second public museum.
Library
The Lawrence County Historical Society houses its historical and genealogical information in the Walter C. McCanse Library at 206 W. Water where they are accessible to researchers six days a week.
Fish Hatchery
The Chesapeake Fish Hatchery, which produces a variety of warm and cool water fish, can be found east of Mt. Vernon on Highway 174. It is an ultra-modern facility consisting of 24 ponds, 12 raceways and a large hatchery building. For more information or for tours, call 417-466-3421.

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Activities

Golf
Mt. Vernon is home to a 9 hole golf course located on the North East edge of town. Golf cart rental and storage are available. Mt. Vernon has a very active golf league. For more information, click here or you can contact the golf course at 417-466-7831.
Robert E. Talbot Wildlife Area
Just a few minutes drive from Mt. Vernon is Talbot's Wildlife Reserve. Horse trails, walking trails, and several ponds for fishing are just some of the attractions available. During hunting season, it has an exceptional deer and turkey habitat to satisfy any hunter. For more information, please call 417-452-3879.
Horse Back Riding
The Mt. Vernon Saddle Club is very active and has several rodeos and events throughout the year. It is located at the Northwest Industrial Park.
Fishing
Fishing can be enjoyed at the Williams Creek Pond, which features a handicap dock. Also, Mt. Vernon is centrally located between Beaver Lake, Stockton Lake, and Table Rock Lake for some of the best fishing the Ozarks has to offer.
Williams Creek Lake
Williams Creek Lake adjoins the Spirit of '76 Park and has handicap fishing dock, asphalt walkway around the pond, and handicap restrooms. Williams Creek Lake offers a relaxing atmosphere for families to picnic, fish, or exercise. 

Tennis
Mt. Vernon has four tennis courts located at the Spirit of '76 Park. The courts are open year round from 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Swimming
Mt. Vernon is very proud of its Olympic size swimming pool located at the "Spirit of '76" Park. The pool offers swimming lessons, water aerobics, and pool parties. You may reach the pool at 417-466-7688 for further information.click here.
Bingo
If Bingo is your passion, you won't want to miss the weekly Bingo games. The American Legion is hopping on Tuesday nights and the words "Bingo" can be heard for miles around.
Skydiving
Skydiving is available at the Mt. Vernon Airport, which is located on H Highway. Some individuals are adventurous enough to climb into the airplane and parachute down. Others are content to enjoy watching the colorful parachutes descend to the ground and imagine the wonderful view the skydivers are experiencing while floating through the air. 
Festival
We certainly wouldn't want to forget Apple Butter Makin' Days, held the second weekend in October every year around the historic town square.  Apple butter, crafters, car show enthusiast, a parade and fair food - if you don't make it here any other time, this is worth the drive.  See the page here.