Ha Ha Tonka State Park

Ha Ha Tonka State Park is a natural area in Missouri along the Lake of the Ozarks, covering about 5000 acres of limestone bluffs, sinkholes, caves, and a natural bridge. The site includes the ruins of an old castle perched above a spring, connected by trails and overlooks.

Robert McClure Snyder started building a European-style castle in 1905 but died shortly after in a car accident. The structure later served as a hotel, burned down in 1942, and has remained a ruin within the park since then.

The name comes from Native American words meaning 'laughing water', inspired by the springs flowing through the karst formations. Today, families and photographers walk among the ruins and along the bluffs, capturing images of the stone walls and lake views below.

The park offers about 15 miles (24 km) of marked trails that lead to springs, caves, and the ruins. Some routes climb steep sections over rock, so sturdy footwear is helpful.

The large spring in the park ranks twelfth in Missouri and releases an average of 48 million gallons (182 million liters) of water each day. The water rises from underground karst rock and flows directly into the lake.

Location: Missouri

Inception: 1978

Website: https://mostateparks.com/park/ha-ha-tonka-state-park

GPS coordinates: 37.97030,-92.76190

Latest update: December 5, 2025 22:24