Mike Cooper
has pioneered this premier stretch of wooded land along the Missouri River
into what is now considered to be an oasis for boats and fishermen on the
Missouri river, and outdoor enthusiasts biking, hiking, or nature-walking
along the Katy Trail. Don't be surprised to see Mike feeding a baby
Lovebird, or point out the sounds of birds and animals unique to the area.
Mike Cooper, an outdoorsman,
had a dream: a dream of an earlier wild river that was just beginning to
be changed by the hand of American westward expansion. Our country grew
westward, first, with the help of the French trappers, followed by Lewis
and Clark, Surveyors and Settlers. Mike has become a historian for the
towns of Nashville and Providence that once sat near where his store and
marina are located. Why? Because it was the thriving, bustling river port
that supplied the small town of what is now the city of Columbia, Missouri
(one of the top ten places to live in the United States based on a
number of Money Magazine issues). Go to the History page and learn about Ira P. Nash, the
earliest surveyor and settler of the site of Nashville. Learn about the
spring freshet of 1844 that destroyed Nashville and led to the founding of
Providence. Check our newsletter and find information about Lewis and
Clark events and news about issues concerning Local Communities, the Katy
Trail, and the Missouri River.
Cooper's will continue to
improve access to the Missouri River to make it safer and more enjoyable
for everyone. Cooper's Landing is also Mike's home, and all visitors
are treated like friends. It seems like he's on a permanent vacation
located in the middle of nature, but it takes hard work to maintain such a
wide range of services for his customers. Even though he's always busy, he
is also ready to take a break and share with you the natural beauty of the
area, the history of Nashville, how the fish are biting, what's for
dinner, and offer you an icy cold beer (at a reasonable price). The
atmosphere is so relaxed, people tend to 'let their hair down' on the
nights when there is live music. Mike is interested in promoting local
musicians and provides facilities all year round for them to
perform and record live music. And whatever you do, dress comfortable
and casual!
Please keep in mind that
alcohol is served on the premises. It's understandable that families
planning a vacation may not want to choose a lodge or campground that
sells alcoholic beverages (wine, wine coolers and beer). On the other
hand, those of you who don't mind a fun, lively atmosphere at night, be
assured that Mike will not tolerate boisterous intoxication that is
disruptive to his other visitors. For your planning purposes, Cooper's
Landing is more tranquil both day and night during the week days. Fridays
and Saturdays are reserved for evening
music to celebrate the tough work week, sweaty day biking on the
trail, or getting the biggest fish of the day out of the Missouri River!
Mike's dream is coming true
because he's not the type to give up. After the big flood of 1993 almost
floated his store away and the river waters returned to their banks,
he remodeled to make an even better structure that included a lodge
for people to rent. He has also been able to enlarge and improve his
boat ramp and make a new boat service dock. Finding a full-service
marina on the Missouri River is not as easy as finding one on the
highway. Cooper's Landing now provides a much needed service to fishermen
and boaters who enjoy the challenges and beauty of the Missouri River.
He still has more plans and it's fun to watch Cooper's Landing grow
. During the official Lewis and Clark Bicentennial years, Mike's marina,
store, lodge and camp grounds will truly be an experience of a
lifetime.
