Alton, Missouri has a unique and fascinating history.
Being the county seat Alton is centrally located in the county and is easily accessible by many surrounding communities. Alton is located in the heart of the Ozark Mountains close to the state of Arkansas,at the junction of Scenic Highway 19 and highway 160.

There are many recreational activities in the area and the surrounding scenery is enjoyed by tourists from all over the world. 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, is one of the United States most spectacular springs. Other springs, such as at Turner's Mill, are scattered throughout the county. Much of the surrounding forest land is part of the Mark Twain National Forest.