The Bennett Spring area was established in the mid-19th century by pioneers that utilized the cool, rushing waters of the spring-fed stream for gristmills. Today, it is among America’s leading trout destinations where many people come to wrestle with rainbow trout and fish a stream that is stocked every evening or just gaze at the one hundred million gallons of water that flow from the spring every day. Bennett Spring State Park has angling, hiking that ranges from effortless to exhausting, and a lodge with satisfying stick-to-your ribs foods. The park’s propinquity to Interstate 44 makes it a simple trip from every part of the Show Me State.
The spring valley – once a prominent camping ground for farm owners waiting around for their grain to be ground at the mill – still appeals to visitors looking to go camping, hiking or canoing. A Bennett Spring hike may just be a relaxing stroll across the tree-shaded spring branch, or even an invigorating seven miles to explore a fascinating natural tunnel. Those trying to find less rugged delights will love the rental housekeeping cabins, the public pool area and the park’s rustic dining lodge.
Fishing fans will be found casting their lines out along the spring branch, while others check out the displays interpreting Missouri’s springs and natural environment within the nature center. Now, with an impressive 3,216 acres, the state park that came about at Peter Bennett’s spring continues to excite all who visit it.
