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Mammoth Spring State Park: Nature and History Combined

Explore a natural wonder and step back in time at Mammoth Spring State Park, where history and the great outdoors converge in the Arkansas Ozarks.

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Mammoth Spring State Park in Arkansas is home to one of the world's largest natural springs, pumping out nine million gallons of water hourly. Visitors can explore the historic 1886 Frisco train depot, a preserved hydroelectric plant, and enjoy outdoor activities along the Spring River.

A brief summary to Mammoth Spring State Park

  • Monday 8 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-5 pm
  • Friday 8 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Visit the Frisco Depot Museum to learn about the area's railroad history.
  • Enjoy a picnic lunch overlooking the beautiful Mammoth Spring and Spring Lake.
  • Take a walk along the Spring Lake Trail for scenic views of the park.
  • Bring your fishing gear and try your luck at catching trout in the Spring River.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Mammoth Spring State Park is located on US Highway 63 in Mammoth Spring, Arkansas. From West Plains, Missouri, take Highway 63 south; the park entrance is on the left just past the Arkansas state line. From the south, take Highway 63 north to Mammoth Spring. Parking is available within the park. Limited parking may be available during peak season.

  • Public Transport

    While limited, public transportation options exist to reach Mammoth Spring. From Springfield, MO, take a shuttle to Mountain Grove, MO, and then a taxi to Mammoth Spring. The shuttle and taxi combination will cost approximately $120-$160. From West Plains, MO, a taxi to Mammoth Spring will cost $50-$60.

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Discover more about Mammoth Spring State Park

Mammoth Spring State Park, nestled in the Ozark Mountains of northern Arkansas, centers around its namesake: the state's largest spring and one of the world's biggest. This natural wonder gushes approximately nine million gallons of water every hour, feeding the scenic Spring River, a popular destination for trout fishing and canoeing. The park seamlessly blends natural beauty with historical significance. The 62.5-acre park includes the 10-acre Spring Lake formed by the spring. The park's diverse attractions include the well-preserved 1886 Frisco train depot, which now serves as a museum showcasing railroad memorabilia and offering a glimpse into early 20th-century train travel. A vintage Frisco caboose sits nearby, inviting exploration. Visitors can also explore the remnants of a historic mill and hydroelectric plant, testaments to the spring's vital role in powering the local economy. A walking trail circles the lake and crosses the old milldam. The park also houses an Arkansas Welcome Center, providing travel information and a gift shop. Other amenities include picnic areas, a playground, and a baseball field. Mammoth Spring has a rich history, serving as a gathering place for Native Americans for thousands of years before European settlers arrived. The town of Mammoth Spring emerged in the 1880s with the arrival of the St. Louis-San Francisco Railway, bringing tourists and spurring economic growth. In 1957, the area was designated as a state park, preserving its natural and historical treasures for generations to come.

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