Deep in southwest Missouri’s Ozark Mountains is the remote Roaring River State Park. An hour west of Branson, this state park is one of Missouri’s most popular destinations, and for good reason. Deep valleys, dense forests, and rugged hills beckon hikers to its seven hiking trails. The most unusual feature of the park, however, can be found near the campground.
Roaring River Spring, found in a limestone gorge near the campsite, is the beginning point of the Roaring River. Over 20 million gallons of clear, 57-degree Fahrenheit water flows from the spring into the river every day.
Though only about 10 feet across, the spring’s pool is over 200 feet deep! Diving in is not recommended.
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The water then flows to a trout hatchery. The park is a major fishing destination, so most of the fish stay here in the Roaring River. The waters are restocked with trout daily!
Missouri State Parks
The campground bends along the Roaring River, making it easy to walk from your campsite to dip your toes into fresh spring water or to fish for your dinner.
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The campgrounds have everything you need: restrooms, showers, a park store, a swimming pool, and a nature center. Anglers will also find a cleaning and fillet station for their catches.
Google/Wendy Ouyang
More than 11 miles of hiking trails take visitors to rock formations and rare plants, including Ozark chinquapin trees.
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If camping’s not your thing, the Emery Melton Inn and Conference Center is near the campground and springs and comes with modern rooms and a full-service restaurant. There are also 26 cabins spread throughout the park.
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The state park’s 187 campsites are divided into three sections and include both electric and non-electric sites, accommodating everything from tents to RVs. Campgrounds 2 and 3 are the best situated along Roaring River.
Zachary Parrish/Google
Missouri State Parks
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Google/Wendy Ouyang
Robin Deal/Google
Bob Barnett/Google
Have you visited Roaring River State Park? How was your experience?
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Address: Roaring River State Park, 12716 Farm Rd 2239, Cassville, MO 65625, USA
