Roaring River State Park, located West of Branson in southwest Missouri, is probably most famous for the rainbow trout found in its namesake’s clear waters. But that’s not the only reason to visit!
Roaring River State Park is a 4,093-acre park about 8 miles south of Cassville, MO. It is nestled in a deep, shady valley surrounded by the rugged Ozark Mountains. The park offers hiking trails, fishing, swimming pool, picnic tables, store, and a nature center with information about the park.
The park’s most striking feature, however, is also the source of the Roaring River.
Roaring River Spring
Roaring River Spring produces an average daily flow of 26 million gallons of cool, clear spring water. More interestingly, the spring emerges from the base of a limestone cliff, forming a pool that spills out to feed the Roaring River. A smaller spring on the cliff above creates a waterfall that splashes down into the main pool. It’s a really special and unique place.
Fishing at Roaring River State Park
One of the first thing’s you’ll notice about the Roaring River Spring pool is all the fish!
The spring’s cool, clear waters are perfect for rainbow trout and Roaring River is one of only three state parks stocked with the fish. You can even tour the trout hatchery while you’re here. Most folks enjoy feeding and watching the trout in the spring pool. Anglers, of course, love catching them in the river.
If you want to do some trout fishing, you’ll need a Missouri Fishing License, and a daily tag. Luckily the Roaring River State Park Store has all you need to get started. Before you know it, you’ll be back at the river and catching your limit.
Take your catch to the park’s handy cleaning and fillet station and you’ll have those fish ready your next meal in no time!
Hiking, Picnicking, Swimming, & More
Roaring River State Park also offers seven nature trails equaling ten miles for hiking and biking. The trails are open year-round, providing excellent experiences, no matter the season.
The park also has over 50 picnic sites scattered throughout, along with a children’s playground, and a swimming pool. The swimming pool, located across from the park office, is open from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day.
Be sure to check out Ozark Chinquapin Nature Center’s exhibits and programs on the park’s natural history while you’re here, too.
Roaring River State Park
12716 Farm Road 2239, Cassville, Missouri, 65625
Visit mostateparks.com for more information.
Roaring River State Park Lodging
You can camp at the park, and there’s a big old hotel nearby, too. For real comfort and value for your accommodation dollar, however, neither can beat a Missouri Bed and Breakfast. Deep dish amenities, personal service, uncommonly comfortable guestrooms, and delicious breakfasts. No matter whether you’re in Southwest Missouri or some other part of the state, you can bet that, nearby a locally owned and operated Missouri B&B is waiting for you.