Big Springs State Park
The name says it all. Big Spring is indeed a big spring and the biggest in Missouri in terms of average daily discharge with some 276 million gallons of cool spring water (58 degrees Fahrenheit) flowing from it each day. This is one of the largest springs in the world. A dye-trace study has showed that dye introduced into a losing stream 39.5 miles away (near Mountain View) was detected at Big Spring 16 days later. The spring is at least 80 feet deep based on research dives.
The Big Spring area became a state park in 1925 and was developed by the Civilian Conservation Corps during the Depression era of the 1930s. In 1972 the area was transferred to the newly created Ozark National Scenic Riverways. This beautiful, BIG spring is well worth the drive!
Directions: Hwy 21 south for 55 miles, to Hwy 60 west for 5 miles, Hwy 103 for 4 miles. Approximate travel time 1.5 hours.
Blue Springs
This spring really lives up to its name—the vivid blue water makes this Missouri spring a sight to see; well worth the half-mile walk from the parking area. The spring is 310 feet deep; that is deep enough to cover the Statue of Liberty.
At approximately 81 million gallons of water per day, this spring definitely adds its share to the Current River. Blue Spring is one of the many springs that feed the Current River.
The spring may be reached by boat/canoe from the Current River; also by hiking the trail from the parking area located off Route 106 at County Road 535. From the hotel, travel Hwy 21 to Hwy 106. A visit to this beautiful Missouri spring is well worth the little over an hour drive from the hotel. Be sure to bring your camera!
