Montauk State Park, Great Plains Travel Guide

Montauk State Park, located near Salem, Missouri, is a 2,920-acre haven in the Ozark Mountains, drawing over 450,000 visitors annually. Established in 1926, the park is situated at the headwaters of the Current River, one of the finest canoeing rivers in the Midwest. The cool, spring-fed waters,湧supplied by Montauk Springs and Pigeon Creek at a rate of over 40 million gallons daily, create an ideal environment for rainbow and brown trout, making it a premier fishing destination.Anglers flock to Montauk to test their skills in the clear waters of the Current River, with the catch-and-keep season running from March 1 to October 31. During the off-season, catch-and-release programs are available. The park features three distinct fishing zones, each with specific regulations to ensure a sustainable fishing experience. A valid fishing permit and daily trout tag are required during the catch-and-keep season.Beyond fishing, Montauk State Park offers a variety of recreational activities. Hiking enthusiasts can explore two main trails: the easy Montauk Lake Trail, a ¾-mile loop suitable for families and strollers, and the more challenging 1.5-mile Pine Ridge Trail that ascends into the Montauk Upland Forest Natural Area. The park also boasts a historic gristmill, built in 1896, offering visitors a glimpse into the region's past. Constructed by Timothy Hickman, the mill stands as a testament to the area's milling heritage, with four mills having operated in the valley. Tours of the mill are available seasonally.For those wishing to extend their stay, Montauk State Park provides a range of lodging options, including a modern campground with basic and electric sites, rental cabins, and motel rooms. The Dorman L. Steelman Lodge offers dining and camping supplies. The park also has picnic areas, picnic shelters, and a playground. Several structures in the park, including the Dam and Spillway in the Hatchery Area and the Montauk State Park Open Shelter, were built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s and are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.