America turns 250 this summer, and Branson, Missouri might just be the most fitting place in the country to mark the occasion. Nestled in the heart of the Ozarks, Shepherd of the Hills has been telling the story of the Ozarks, Pioneers, American history, heritage, and community for over a century. This summer, the park is leaning all the way into that tradition with Shepherd’s Great American Summer, a season-long celebration packed with patriotic fun, outdoor adventure, and live entertainment from May 22 through August 16.
If you’re looking for a meaningful, memorable way to honor the country’s 250th anniversary, here’s why Shepherd of the Hills should be at the top of your list if you are all about REAL OZARKS FUN
A Place Where American History Comes to Life
Long before it was an adventure park, Shepherd of the Hills was a homestead. In the early 1900s, author Harold Bell Wright wandered into these Ozark hills and found a community unlike any other. He wrote The Shepherd of the Hills based on the real people and places he encountered here, and the novel went on to become one of the best-selling American novels of that era and brought world-wide attention and acclaim to the region.
When you walk the grounds today, you’re walking the same land. Old Matt’s Cabin, on the National Historic Registry, still stands. The Inspiration Tower rises from the same Inspiration Point where Wright found his inspiration. The Guided Historic Jeep drawn tram Tour takes you through it all with an Ozark-native guide who brings the stories behind every landmark to life.
It’s the kind of American heritage tourism you can actually experience, not just read about on a sign.
Shepherd’s Great American Summer: A Celebration All Season Long
Running Tuesdays through Sundays from May 22 through August 16, Shepherd’s Great American Summer brings patriotic energy to everything the park does. Think American-themed family games, festive treats, special photo opportunities, and all the park’s regular adventures, all wrapped up in a summer-long salute to 250 years of this country.
Here’s a look at what’s waiting for your family:
- Inspiration Tower – Take a glass elevator Ride to the top of this 230-foot landmark and take in 360 degree panoramic views of the Ozark Mountains. There’s no better way to feel the scope of the American landscape than from 230 feet up.
- Guided Historic Tours – Hop on the open-air, Jeep-drawn tram and hear the stories behind the homestead, the cabin, and the characters who inspired one of America’s most beloved novels, The Shepherd of the Hills.
- American-Themed Games and Activities – New for Great American Summer, the park adds patriotic family fun and activities throughout the season.
- Seasonal Treats – Stop by Sammy Lane’s Sweets N’ Treats or the Shepherd’s Grill for something cold, something sweet, and something worth savoring on a summer afternoon.
- Adventure Park Attractions: Mini Golf, Treehouse Playland, Tube Slides , and More – Included with your general entry provides access to over 30 activities on the historic grounds.
Watch the American Story on Stage
If there’s one experience that captures the spirit of this country’s 250th the right way, it’s the live outdoor drama, The Shepherd of the Hills: The Story of the Ozarks . Performed under the stars, the same way its been done for over 66 seasons, , this production brings the original novel to life with horses, a cabin fire, a love story, a gun fight and a story of redemption with a cast of over 60 native Ozarkians. The cast puts their love of the regional culture that is so prominent, into every single show.
It’s not just a performance. It’s a celebration of the pioneering people who carved a life out of the hard-scrabble of these hills, and the values they carried with them, still resonate to this very day with the warmth of Ozarks hospitality
for a real pioneering spirit, see the Shepherd’s Wild West Showdown bringing frontier-era American fun to the stage with trick riding stunts, mounted shooting, twirling lassos, comedy, and enough cowboy action to keep every age in the family entertained.
Outdoor Adventure with an American Spirit
The Ozark hills have been calling adventurers for generations. This summer, answer the call.
- Great Woodsman Zipline Canopy Tour – Soar through the treetops on Branson’s top-rated zipline, across 8 tree-suspended platforms with breathtaking Ozark views the whole way through. Voted among the best aerial adventure parks in America multiple times over.
- Copperhead Mountain Coaster – At 4,800 feet long, Branson’s fastest and most scenic mountain coaster delivers heart-pumping twists, drops, and curves through the Ozark landscape.
- Vigilante Extreme ZipRider – Take a zipline thrill off the Inspiration Tower and glide down reaching speeds of up to 50 mph all the way to the valley bottom with a bird’s-eye view of the hills below.
- Sky Trek Challenge Ropes Course – Test your nerve on this two-story challenge course standing right beside the Inspiration Tower.
End the Night with Ozarks Aglow
New for 2026, Ozarks Aglow is a separately ticketed nighttime experience that turns the Shepherd of the Hills grounds into something truly magical after dark. Hand-crafted lanterns line illuminated woodland pathways, each one telling a piece of the story of the Ozarks and a special lantern display commemorating America’s 250 Years of Freedom. .
Towering lantern sculptures glow among the trees, and the whole scene feels like walking through a piece of American folklore come to life.
It’s a perfect way to close out a day of celebrating, especially in an anniversary summer this significant.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does Shepherd’s Great American Summer take place?
Great American Summer runs May 22 through August 16, 2026, Tuesday through Sunday. Park hours are 10 AM to 6 PM.
Is this a good place to celebrate July 4th?
Absolutely. Shepherd of the Hills is one of the best places in Branson to spend the Fourth of July. The park’s, outdoor setting, and live entertainment make it a natural fit for America’s birthday.
Does the park celebrate America’s 250th anniversary in any special way?
Yes! Great American Summer is built around the Semiquincentennial (America’s 250th anniversary). The park features American-themed games, patriotic photo ops, special treats, and seasonal programming throughout the summer with a special lantern display commemorating America’s 250 Years of Freedom.
Do I need to buy tickets in advance?
Buying tickets online in advance is recommended, especially for summer weekends when the park gets busy. Tickets for specific rides and shows are sold separately from general park entry.
Is Ozarks Aglow included with park admission?
No, Ozarks Aglow is a separately ticketed evening experience. However, if you want to combine the two, there is a special money saving ticket. Check the Shepherd of the Hills website for available dates and pricing.
How long should I plan to spend at the park?
Most families spend a full day here. Between the adventure rides, the historic tours, the shows, and dining, there’s plenty to fill your visit from open to close.
Where is Shepherd of the Hills located?
Shepherd’s Adventure Park Main entrance is at 5585 W 76 Country Boulevard in Branson, Missouri 65616. You can reach them at (417) 334-4191.
Come Celebrate at the Heart of the Ozarks
Two hundred and fifty years is worth celebrating somewhere that actually means something. Shepherd of the Hills has been a part of Branson’s identity and the American story for over a hundred years. This summer, it becomes the backdrop for one of the most memorable ways your family can mark a milestone that only comes around once in a lifetime.
Buy your tickets for Shepherd’s Great American Summer and plan your visit today.