The life of George Washington Carver can be an inspiration to travelers, so this site is highly recommended. Carver was born on this farm as a slave, orphaned and often ill as a child, yet he went on to become a great scientist, inventor, and educator.

Are We There Yet?

From Neosho or Carthage, take US 71 alternate to Diamond. Take State Highway V for two miles west to County Road 16Q. Go south for one mile.

What’s There To Do Here?

Start your visit with a tour of the visitors center for an overview of the life of George Washington Carver. From there, enjoy a stroll along the Carver Trail, which winds for three-fourths of a mile through undeveloped land that's changed little since the days when Carver roamed this area as a child. The trail goes by the site of his birthplace, and although the cabin no longer exists you can still see the remnants of the cramped 14 by 14-foot quarters that was once his home.

Take a moment to commune with nature at a statue of the inventor as a boy, then visit the spring where he retrieved water for the Carver family. Williams Spring is home to a variety of wildlife, and Paris remembers seeing a beaver along this trail when she visited here as a child. A stop by the Moses Carver house is next-- George Washington Carver stayed in this tiny structure several times when he returned to visit the place of his birth. Moses and Susan Carver are buried in the family cemetery, which is also on the trail.

When Are We Going?

The peak months for visitation are May through July. During the summer months, expect temperatures to be hot so bring hats and sunscreen, especially if you’ll be taking the walking trail.

How Long Are We Staying?

You’ll want to budget about two hours to tour the house and take the walking trail.

What Should I Bring?

Don’t forget good walking shoes for the trail.

Where's Our Room?

There is no camping in the park but you’ll find accommodations in nearby Diamond, Tel. 417/325-4220; Neosho, Tel. 417/451-1925; and Carthage, Tel. 417/358-2373.

Where Are We Going Next?

The battlefield at Pea Ridge National Military Park, located 105 miles from the George Washington Carver National Monument, is a virtual time capsule of the Civil War era. You can almost hear the echo of the cannons which are still sprinkled throughout the land, and reenactors in military uniform add to this portrait of life during a time of war.

A 28-minute film, "Thunder In The Ozarks" and museum at the Visitor Center explains the significant struggle which occurred in this area in 1862, and a drive through the battlefield takes you past ten spots of interest, including the Elkhorn Tavern historic structure, which was once used as a field hospital.

For nature lovers, a hiking trail lets you soak in the scenic enchantment of this area. For further information, visit Pea Ridge National Military Park.

Less than two hours away from Diamond, Missouri is the city of Branson, recognized as “the live music show capital of the world.” Branson offers several large family-oriented attractions, such as Silver Dollar City and The Shepherd of The Hills, but there is also a variety of entertainment at smaller venues guaranteed to entertain.

Take a nostalgic trip back to the days when the good guys wore white hats at The Roy Rogers- Dale Evans Museum. A vast array of memorabilia ranging from Roy Rogers comic books and toy guitars to the fanciful costumes worn by this beloved western star is on display. Visit www.royrogers.com .

Two thousand butterflies greet couples at The Butterfly Place, a 9,000-square-foot glass building where butterflies from around the globe flutter past in a rainbow of color. Couples learn about the life cycle of these beautiful insects in a continuously running video presentation and witness the "birth" of a butterfly in the emergence room, where they break free from their chrysalids. The Butterfly Place is located at 2400 State Highway 165 in Branson.

Practical Information

Address: George Washington Carver National Monument, 5646 Carver Rd., Diamond, MO 64840
Operating Season: Year round; closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s Day
Hours: 9 a.m -5 p.m. daily
Website: http://www.nps.gov/gwca/