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Ha Ha Tonka State Park: Castle Ruins and Karst Wonders

Discover castle ruins, natural springs, and stunning karst landscapes at Ha Ha Tonka State Park on the Lake of the Ozarks in Camdenton, Missouri.

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Explore the haunting ruins of a turn-of-the-century castle and the unique karst topography of Ha Ha Tonka State Park. With over 15 miles of trails, discover caves, sinkholes, natural bridges, and the majestic Ha Ha Tonka Spring, all set against the backdrop of the Lake of the Ozarks.

A brief summary to Ha Ha Tonka State Park

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy shoes for exploring the trails and castle ruins.
  • Bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months, as there are limited water fountains.
  • Check the park's website for trail closures and safety updates before your visit.
  • Visit the park office for maps, brochures, and information about interpretive programs.
  • Consider visiting during the spring or fall for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Ha Ha Tonka State Park is located south of Camdenton, Missouri. From Camdenton, take Missouri Route D south for approximately 5 miles. The park entrance will be on your left. Parking is available in multiple lots throughout the park, including near the castle ruins and the natural bridge. Parking is free. Be aware that the lots closest to the castle can fill up quickly, especially on weekends.

  • Walking

    Once inside Ha Ha Tonka State Park, the most popular way to reach the castle ruins is by walking. From the lower parking lot, follow the paved Castle Trail. It's a short, shaded walk uphill to the castle ruins. The path is also ADA accessible. From the castle ruins, you can access other trails to explore more of the park's geological features. Be aware that some areas around the castle ruins may be closed off for safety reasons.

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Discover more about Ha Ha Tonka State Park

Ha Ha Tonka State Park is a geological wonderland and historical site located on the Niangua arm of the Lake of the Ozarks. The park's name, derived from the Osage Indian phrase meaning "laughing waters" or "big laugh," hints at the natural springs that define the area. The park's most striking feature is the ruins of Ha Ha Tonka, a castle built in the early 20th century by Robert McClure Snyder, Sr., a wealthy Kansas City businessman. Snyder envisioned a European-style castle overlooking a spring-fed lake. Construction began in 1905 but was halted when Snyder died in an automobile accident in 1906. His sons completed the castle in the 1920s, but it was destroyed by a fire in 1942. Today, visitors can explore the skeletal remains of the castle, offering a glimpse into a bygone era and panoramic views of the Lake of the Ozarks. Beyond the castle, Ha Ha Tonka State Park showcases impressive karst topography. This geological formation features sinkholes, caves, natural bridges, and Missouri's 12th-largest spring. The Ha Ha Tonka Spring discharges an average of 58 million gallons of water daily. The park offers over 15 miles of hiking trails, ranging from paved paths to more rugged routes. Popular trails include the Castle Trail, which leads to the castle ruins; the Spring Trail, which winds around the Ha Ha Tonka Spring; and the Colosseum Trail, which passes by a natural bridge and a large sinkhole. Some trails may have closures due to structural concerns. Visitors can also enjoy picnicking, fishing, and boating on the Lake of the Ozarks. Kayaks can be rented at the visitor center.

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