.jpg){kind=link}
Scenic natural retreat featuring trout fishing, hiking trails, rustic lodging, and a nature center nestled in a deep Ozark valley.
General Information
Nature Center: 9am to 4:30pm (hours may vary seasonally)
Fishing permit required for trout fishing (fees vary)
How to Get There
From Eureka Springs, AR (30 mi): Take AR-23 N to MO-76 W, then follow MO-112 S to Farm Road 2239 and continue to the park entrance.
Overview
The Roaring River State Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, nestled in a narrow Ozark valley surrounded by rugged limestone bluffs and forested hills. Known for its crystal-clear spring that feeds Roaring River, the park is one of Missouri’s premier destinations for trout fishing, with the stream regularly stocked and open for both catch-and-keep and catch-and-release seasons. Visitors can explore seven scenic hiking trails, enjoy picnicking under the canopy of hardwoods, or learn about the region’s ecology at the Ozark Chinquapin Nature Center.
Established in 1928, the park also features a variety of lodging options, from rustic cabins to the historic Emory Melton Inn and Conference Center, which includes a full-service restaurant. With its blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and educational experiences, Roaring River State Park offers a peaceful escape into the heart of the Ozarks. Whether you're casting a line, hiking a trail, or simply soaking in the scenery, the park invites you to reconnect with nature in one of Missouri’s most beloved landscapes.
Things to Do
Visit Roaring River Spring
The park's centerpiece is Roaring River Spring, one of Missouri's largest springs. Millions of gallons of water flow from the base of a limestone bluff each day, creating a scenic setting that attracts visitors for photography, sightseeing, and wildlife observation.
Go Trout Fishing
Roaring River State Park is one of Missouri's premier trout fishing destinations. The cold spring-fed waters support a thriving trout population, and anglers visit year-round to fish in the park's designated trout management areas.
Explore the Nature Center
The Ozark Chinquapin Nature Center features exhibits on local wildlife, natural history, conservation, and the unique ecosystems of the Ozarks. Educational programs and interpretive displays help visitors learn about the region's plants and animals.
Top Trails
Devil's Kitchen Trail
Length: Approximately 1.3 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: Approximately 300 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
This popular trail leads to Devil's Kitchen, a small cave and sinkhole formation surrounded by scenic Ozark forest. The route offers interesting geology and beautiful woodland scenery.
Fire Tower Trail
Length: Approximately 2.8 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: Approximately 500 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
The Fire Tower Trail climbs through hardwood forests to a historic fire tower site, providing elevated views of the surrounding Ozark hills and valleys.
Sources: Missouri State Parks official Roaring River State Park information, including Roaring River Spring, trout fishing, nature center exhibits, park history, and visitor amenities. https://mostateparks.com/park/roaring-river-state-park Additional trail, fishing, and visitor information verified through Missouri State Parks trail resources and park guides. https://mostateparks.com/park/roaring-river-state-park/trails
This article uses material from the Wikipedia articles and official tourism pages for the Roaring River State Park, which are released under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share-Alike License 3.0.