Bennett Spring State Park, Gasconade River Basin Travel Guide

4.8 (3601)

Discover Missouri's natural beauty at Bennett Spring State Park: premier trout fishing, scenic trails, and historic charm in the Ozark hills.

Home
Travel Guides
Missouri
Gasconade River Basin
Bennett Spring State Park

Bennett Spring State Park, one of Missouri's oldest state parks, is a 3,338-acre haven in the Ozarks, drawing anglers and nature enthusiasts alike. Fed by a spring gushing over 100 million gallons of water daily, it offers premier trout fishing, diverse hiking trails, and a rich history rooted in milling and conservation.

A brief summary to Bennett Spring State Park

26250 MO-64A, Lebanon, Missouri, 65536, US
Click to display
Click to display

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Bennett Spring State Park.

Arrive early for the best fishing spots, as the spring branch can get crowded, especially during peak season.
Purchase your fishing permit and daily trout tag at the park store to save time and start fishing sooner.
Check the park's event calendar for special activities like Kids Free Fishing Day, Veteran's Fishing Day or guided nature walks.
Bring comfortable hiking shoes to explore the park's diverse trail system, ranging from easy strolls to challenging hikes.
Consider booking a cabin or campsite in advance, especially during the on-season (February 25th to October 31st), as they tend to fill up quickly.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more

Activate your presence

Explore Bennett Spring State Park on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Bennett Spring State Park, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

Bennett Spring State Park is located approximately 12 miles west of Lebanon, Missouri, on Highway 64. From Lebanon, follow Highway 64 West. Turn right onto MO-64A to enter the park. Parking is available throughout the park near major attractions like the nature center, dining lodge, and trailheads. Parking is free. However, during peak season and special events, parking areas may fill up quickly. Consider arriving early to secure a spot.
Public Transportation

While there is no direct public transportation to Bennett Spring State Park, the closest option is to take a bus to Springfield, Missouri, and then a taxi to the park. From the Springfield CU Transit Center, a taxi or rideshare service to Bennett Spring State Park will cost approximately $130-$260 and take about 1 hour and 30 minutes. This is a less convenient and more expensive option compared to driving.

Discover more about Bennett Spring State Park

Bennett Spring State Park, nestled in the Ozark hills of Missouri, has been a beloved destination for generations. The park's centerpiece, Bennett Spring, is the state's third-largest, gushing more than 100 million gallons of clear, cool water each day. This constant flow creates a spring branch that is stocked daily with rainbow trout, making it a premier fishing spot.The area's history dates back to the mid-19th century when settlers recognized the spring's potential for powering grist and flour mills. James Brice built the first mill in 1846, but it was Peter Bennett, Brice's son-in-law, who operated the most successful mill. The valley became a popular camping spot for farmers awaiting their turn at the mill, spending their time hunting and fishing. In 1900, the Missouri Fish Commissioner introduced 40,000 mountain trout, further enhancing the area's appeal to anglers. The state purchased the spring and surrounding land in 1924-1925, establishing one of Missouri's first state parks.During the 1930s, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) significantly shaped the park's character, constructing cabins, a shelter house, roads, trails, and the iconic arched bridge across the spring branch. Today, visitors can explore over 12 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy strolls to challenging treks. The Natural Tunnel Trail leads to a unique geological formation, a collapsed cave system with a 296-foot-long natural tunnel.Beyond fishing and hiking, Bennett Spring State Park offers a variety of amenities, including a dining lodge, campgrounds, cabins, and a nature center. The nature center features exhibits about Missouri's springs and natural environment, with staff-led programs and guided nature walks. Whether you're seeking a relaxing getaway or an outdoor adventure, Bennett Spring State Park provides a memorable experience in the heart of the Ozarks.