Big Spring, Natural spring in Ozark National Scenic Riverways, Missouri, United States
Big Spring is a natural spring in the Ozark National Scenic Riverways that emerges forcefully from a limestone bluff and creates white water before flowing into a clear channel. The water continues downriver through the valley, forming part of a larger river system in the region.
The spring began operating as one of Missouri's first state parks in 1924, then transitioned to become part of the Ozark National Scenic Riverways in 1969. This change expanded protection across a larger area and allowed for more comprehensive management of the entire river system.
The structures you see here were built by the Civilian Conservation Corps during the Great Depression, and they remain central to how visitors experience the place today. These buildings show how the landscape was shaped during that era and continue to serve the community.
The area has a campground with RV and tent sites, picnic facilities with tables and grills, and several trails for walking and exploring. The water stays cold year-round, and popular days can draw crowds, so plan your visit accordingly.
The spring water dissolves limestone daily as it travels through underground passages beneath the surface. This hidden process continually reshapes the hidden channels and underground spaces that feed the spring you see above ground.
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