.jpg){kind=link}
Cold spring-fed waters, premier trout fishing streams, forested hills, and scenic recreation areas make this one of the region’s most celebrated outdoor destinations.
Fishing and special-use areas may have seasonal regulations
Fishing permits and trout tags required for anglers as regulated by the Missouri Department of Conservation
Spring and Summer for trout fishing
Open year-round
How to Get There
From Lebanon (12 mi): Take US-64 west from Lebanon, continue through the Ozark countryside, then follow signs to Highway 64A and the park entrance.
Overview
The Bennett Spring State Park is centered around one of Missouri’s largest natural springs, which produces millions of gallons of crystal-clear water each day and forms the headwaters of a renowned trout stream. Established as one of Missouri’s earliest state parks, the area has long attracted anglers seeking exceptional fishing opportunities in the cool, spring-fed waters. The spring branch winds through wooded valleys and limestone landscapes, creating a picturesque setting that combines natural beauty with outdoor recreation.
Beyond its world-class trout fishing, the park offers miles of hiking trails, campgrounds, picnic facilities, nature programs, and abundant wildlife viewing opportunities. Visitors can explore forests rich with oak and hickory trees, observe deer and wild turkey, or simply relax beside the flowing waters that define the landscape. Whether casting a line, hiking through the Ozarks, or enjoying a family getaway, the park provides a classic Missouri outdoor experience that has drawn generations of visitors for more than a century.
Things to Do
Visit Bennett Spring
Bennett Spring is one of Missouri's largest springs, producing millions of gallons of clear water each day. The spring forms the headwaters of Bennett Spring Branch and creates a beautiful setting for sightseeing, photography, and wildlife observation.
Go Trout Fishing
Bennett Spring State Park is one of Missouri's premier trout fishing destinations. The cold spring-fed waters support a thriving trout fishery, attracting anglers from across the state and beyond throughout the fishing season.
Explore the Nature Center and Historic Features
The park's nature center offers exhibits on local wildlife, aquatic ecosystems, conservation, and Ozark natural history. Visitors can also explore historic structures and learn about the development of one of Missouri's oldest state parks.
Top Trails
Spring Trail
Length: Approximately 0.5 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: Minimal
Difficulty: Easy
This short trail follows Bennett Spring Branch and provides excellent views of the spring, fish habitats, and surrounding natural features while offering easy access for visitors of all ages.
Natural Tunnel Trail
Length: Approximately 0.5 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: Approximately 100 feet
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
This popular trail leads to a natural rock tunnel carved by water through the hillside. Along the route, hikers enjoy forest scenery, stream views, and interesting geological features.
Sources: Missouri State Parks official Bennett Spring State Park information, including Bennett Spring, trout fishing, nature center exhibits, park history, recreational opportunities, and visitor amenities. https://mostateparks.com/park/bennett-spring-state-park Additional trail, fishing, and visitor information verified through Missouri State Parks trail resources and park guides. https://mostateparks.com/park/bennett-spring-state-park/trails
This article uses material from the Wikipedia articles and official tourism pages for the Bennett Spring State Park, which are released under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share-Alike License 3.0.