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My 5 Favorite Outdoor Locations for Photos in and around Joplin, MO

Updated: Jun 4

I oftentimes have people ask, "What are your favorite locations for photos?" So today I'm sharing my 5 favorite spots for photos in and around Joplin, MO. When choosing your location, we'll narrow it down to one that best reflects your family. Additionally, in choosing your location (and even your outfits), I suggest you consider where you'll hang your final images in your home; you want your photos to complement your home's decor and colors.


Let's get to it. Here are 5 of my favorites.



Wildcat Glades | Joplin


I love the versatility that Wildcat Glades provides. From my favorite golden hour field to beautiful blooms, magnificent trees, and creeks, Wildcat Glades has a little of everything within short walking distance. It's perfect for active families that enjoy nature. You can be sure it's beautiful all year, each season Wildcat Glades has so much to offer. Spring and summer brings beautiful foliage and flowers, the leaves are beautiful in fall, and you're sure to find evergreens all winter long. Definitely keep this location top of mind anytime of year.


Family of five holding hands and smiling in a grassy field with bare trees. Clothing is casual with blue, red, and denim tones. Clear sky.

A couple in cozy outfits lift a baby in a plaid dress outdoors, surrounded by autumn trees. Joyful expressions, earthy tones.

A family of four in a park, parents each holding a daughter, smiling at two kids. Greenery surrounds them with soft sunlight in the background.


King Jack Park


If you want a beautiful park setting located in Webb City, King Jack park has perfect open lawns and huge oak trees. I've had some of my most fun sessions capturing kids running around the large oaks and collecting acorns. Next, it's definitely dog friendly if you're interested in bringing your pup to your photo session. Don't forget the bridge and water features too. It's a wonderful location all year long.


A smiling couple kneels with two dogs wearing plaid bandanas. They're outdoors with a sunset glow. Woman in sweater, man in cowboy hat.

A smiling couple holds hands in a grassy field. He wears a cowboy hat and white shirt; she wears glasses and a brown sweater. Autumn trees in the background.

Man lifts smiling woman in autumn park, wearing casual attire and cowboy hat, amidst bare trees with warm sunset glow.


Grand Falls


Grand Falls is just that, it's a beautiful location to take in. Even your most photo adverse family member will love an experience at Grand Falls. Why not have fun at your family photos? Grand Falls is your place. I love the backdrop the rocks and water provide as well as the abundance of trees and plants. Do come prepared with good shoes. The falls are right off the road so you won't have to walk long, but it is rocky and requires some care in navigating this destination. I've photographed beautiful family photo sessions at this Joplin location as well as some amazing senior sessions. Grand Falls is always a win.


High school senior girl in a blue floral dress stands on a rocky ledge by a waterfall at sunset, smiling. Background features trees and soft sunlight.

Senior guy in a pink shirt smiles, standing on rocks by a river. Lush green trees in the background.

High school senior girl in a patterned skirt and white sweater stands on rocks by a river, smiling. Waterfall and lush greenery in the background.

A person in a white shirt and black shorts sits on rocks by a serene water body at sunset, smiling. The scene is warm and peaceful.


Carthage Public Library & Central Park


My next favorite spot gives you a two in one! Carthage Library has such beautiful architecture and light stone which makes for a perfect backdrop. It's a great spot for families or high school senior photos. This background works with any color combo your family might wear. The solid stone really lets the subject stand out. This backdrop would be perfect for dressing your family or senior up if you're looking for a more formal look.


Right across the street is Central Park with mature trees that are lovely in summer and so colorful in fall. This spot truly is a great way to get two looks in just one stop. You're getting all the beauty nature has to offer along with the beautiful architecture the library provides.


senior girl poses on steps of Carthage library for photo shoot

Two sisters smiling at each other in a grassy park. One in a plaid shirt, the other in a red top. Bright, sunny setting with trees.

High school senior in a blue shirt and jeans sits on stone steps, smiling. The background is a light gray stone structure, creating a calm mood.

A high school senior in a tan and blue hoodie stands on a sidewalk. Background features a stone building, stairs, trees. Mood is relaxed, daylight.


In Home Session


I'm not sure what could be better than a session at your own home. Some of my favorite images and of course my favorite memories are at home. When you plan an at-home session, it truly is so easy. The kids are dressed up and ready, you've got the convenience of everything you need right at your fingertips, you don't have to travel to a location, and the kids can change out of those dress clothes in a snap. The comfort and sentiment of having a session at home can't be matched. In addition to being convenient, there’s something undeniably special about capturing life right where it happens—at home.


Family of five smiling outdoors. Parents sit with three children in suspenders and bow ties. Greenery in the background. Bright, joyful setting.

Four smiling children in suspenders and bow ties stand outdoors in front of tall grass. A girl wears a navy dress with a red bow.

A girl in a navy dress twirls joyfully in a sunlit field, wearing cowboy boots. Her curly hair shines, and a fence and trees frame the scene.

Four children walk hand-in-hand through a sunlit field, wearing jeans, white shirts, and suspenders. A warm, peaceful mood surrounds them.

Are you ready to plan your session? I hope my 5 favorite outdoor locations for photos in Joplin inspired you. I'd be honored to work together to create beautiful images and memories you will treasure for years to come. Head on over to the blog where you can see sessions at any of these locations. I can't wait to photograph you.


XO,

April





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April Hurst Photography

Greater Joplin  Family and Children's Photographer

Serving Joplin, Webb City, Carthage, Carl Junction

© 2025 by April Hurst Photography

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