Alton Through The Eyes of a Visitor

Alton MO has been the hub of Oregon County since 1859 and is located approximately 207 miles south of St. Louis and 160 miles northwest of Memphis, Tennessee in South Central Missouri. It is nestled in the heart of the Missouri Ozarks, adjoins the state of Arkansas, and has easy access from the north by Highway 19. Has access from the east and west by Highway 160 and from the south by Highway 63. According to Alton History, the new courthouse was built on the old foundation in 1871.

Oregon County, which was formally organized in 1845, now has a population of 10,344 and is one of the counties adjoining the Arkansas border.

Alton is the county seat with a population of 668. Much of the surrounding forest is Mark Twain National Forest including the Irish Wilderness which is popular for hunting especially in turkey and deer season. It is full of wildlife and attracks photographers. Trapping and fishing are other popular attractions in this area. The Eleven Point River flows in a southeasterly direction through the county and is popular for floating, fishing, camping, and other water activities. Greer Spring, north on Scenic Highway 19 and only 8 miles from Alton MO, is one of the United States most spectacular springs. Other springs, such as the one at Turner's Mill, are scattered throughout the county. A cordial welcome awaits those who come for a day or come to stay.

Contact Information
Alton Advertiser
Rt 2 Box 2017
Alton, MO 65606