Big Spring National Park, much like Round Spring, is a gift from Missouri to the nation. There’s a lot to see and do here, so I’ll cover the trails, campsite, lodging, and more!
Visiting Big Spring National Park
About Big Spring National Park
Like most of Missouri’s gems, Big Spring was a state park (one of Missouri’s first!) from 1924 until 1969. It was then that Missouri gave us the ultimate gift, and along with Alley and Round Spring State Parks, handed the reins to the National Park Service. The beauty is a part of the Ozark National Scenic Riverways.
There’s some contention as to whether or not Big Spring is in fact, the nation’s biggest spring. In reality, there’s sort of a tie. Factoring in Idaho’s Snake River Spring Complex and Florida’s Silver Spring, not to mention the rainfall, any one of these could be the nation’s biggest spring and it varies from day to day.
Regardless, Big Spring is massive. About 286 million gallons of water flows daily, and that water contains the limestone which gives that beautiful blue hue. Not quite as intense as Blue Spring, but awfully close.
How to Get to Big Spring National Park
Most folks get to Big Spring from Van Buren. It’s a simple 10 minute drive from Highway 60 to MO-103S.
Big Spring Campground
Big Spring campgrounds operate on a 6-month rolling basis, and can accommodate RVs and tents. Electric hook-up availability varies, and there are no water or sewer hook-ups. Call 877-444-6777 to reserve.
Big Spring Lodge
Big Spring Lodge and cabins fit the landscape so perfectly. They are, however, undergoing a massive renovation following decades of wear and tear. Tentative completion date is 2022.
Big Spring National Park Trails
One of the nice things about Big Spring is that the trail leading up to the view is wheelchair accessible and easily viewed from the parking lot. If you wish to walk a little further, it’s under 2 miles and has some really beautiful viewpoints.
There’s also another 7-mile trail that connects the campground for the more adventurous.
Big Spring National Park Photos
What to know before you go
- Van Buren, MO 63965
- (573) 323-4236
- 2 Trails
- Rated Easy to Moderate
- Campgrounds
- More information
Did this post inspire you to visit Big Spring National Park? Let me know down below!
Pin visiting Big Spring National Park in the Fall
Safe travels!
-Maggie
