East of Dogwood Canyon Nature Park (one of the best places to visit for Thanksgiving) and south of Fugitive Beach (Missouri’s cool waterpark with a natural golden-sand beach), a stunning natural wonder adds some extra sparkle to the Ozarks. The gem in question? Van Buren, Missouri’s Big Spring.
Located within Ozark National Scenic Riverways (America’s “first national park area to protect a river system,” per the National Park Service), Big Spring ranks among the largest springs in the world. A few factors — including depth and flow rate — help illustrate this beautiful landmark’s size. As Missouri’s deepest spring, Big Spring has a depth of 310 feet, and on average, it flows at a rate of around 290 million gallons of water a day. For comparison, Florida’s Silver Springs measure in at around 30 feet deep, and Arkansas’ Mammoth Spring pumps roughly 216 million gallons of water per day. So, while Big Spring may not be the number one largest spring in the world by every metric, it certainly earns its spot on the list of awe-inspiring contenders.
Sheer size isn’t all Big Spring has going for it, though. Thanks to dissolved limestone, the waters here also take on a striking, sparkling blue color that entrances visitors. See it for yourself by heading to the Big Spring Entrance Station of Ozark National Scenic Riverways. Located under three hours from major Missouri cities like Branson and St. Louis, this visitor center remains open all year (save for weekends in the autumn/winter off-season and on holidays). Even the local campgrounds continue welcoming visitors throughout the colder months, making fall through winter a good time for an uncrowded Big Spring vacation. However, if frigid weather isn’t for you, opt to visit in late spring or summer, when temperatures are warmer and the landscapes are lively.
Read more: 50 Of The Most Mesmerizing Places On Earth
Sightsee, hike, and boat while visiting Big Spring
A hiker on the stone trail around Big Spring in Missouri’s Ozark National Scenic Riverways – Scgerding/Getty Images
If you’re visiting Big Spring as part of a longer Ozarks road trip route, you’ll appreciate just how easy it is to drive up to this landmark and snap a picture. Along a paved path not far from the parking lot, the beautiful blue waters of Big Spring appear. In spring and summer, the view is framed by lush greenery. Those green hues fade in the fall, giving way to sepia-toned foliage that contrasts with the vibrant water. Travelers who prefer dramatic rockfaces over colorful plants may like Big Spring best in winter, though. Once the leaves fall away, stone formations of limestone and dolomite can be seen more clearly. Informational placards nearby explain how water flows through this rugged terrain, giving curious sightseers deeper insight into nature’s majesty.
After you’ve gotten up close and personal with this gem, see it from a different perspective by hiking around the area. Trails here include a quick loop behind the spring, plus longer routes heading north and south. Considered a prime spot for birdwatching, the loop trail is considered an easy hike, though some steep and asymmetrical sections may require watching your step. For a longer trek, follow the northbound path toward Big Spring Campground and amphitheater or the southbound route that winds around old Civilian Conservation Corps cabins, Big Spring Lodge, and the Chubb Hollow group camping area. Before setting your heart on hiking in either direction, check the Ozark National Scenic Riverways National Park Service website for information on local closures, weather alerts, and other important conditions.
Not into hiking? Lucky for you, the Big Spring area is also a great spot for getting out on the water. While you can’t swim or fish in the spring itself, a nearby boat ramp makes it easy to explore the region’s waterways.
Explore campgrounds and attractions near Big Spring
Falling Spring Mill and neighboring waterfall in Missouri – Sandra Sapp/Shutterstock
Complete with showers, fire pits, grills, and picnic tables, Big Spring Campground is located just under 1.5 miles from the spring itself. During peak season (mid-April through mid-October), standard nonelectric campsites here cost $20 a night (as of this writing). Expect to pay an extra $10 for standard electric sites and up to $140 for nonelectric, tent-only group sites. For cheaper rates, reserve a stay during the off-season, when standard nonelectric sites start at just $10 a night. While lower prices may be tempting, keep in mind that the campground’s modern restrooms are only open during peak season.
The grounds around here also include the Big Spring Dining Lodge and cabins. In 2022, renovations began on these facilities, and unofficial estimates claim these spaces will reopen in 2026. In the meantime, those not into camping can find alternative stays at nearby hotels, motels, and inns. One of the top-rated options is The Landing Current River, where several lodges (Rose Cliff, Moon Shadow, and River Centre) and the four-bedroom Inez House are available to welcome travelers. This property includes a restaurant called The Blue Heron, which opens for dinner, and access to the Current River. Tube, raft, canoe, and kayak rentals are available on site.
If you’re up for some sightseeing away from the immediate Big Spring area, consider checking out attractions like Falling Spring Mill. Under an hour’s drive from Big Spring, this mill dates back to 1927 and sits beside an unassuming yet charming waterfall. It’s a fun stop to add in during a longer day of exploring local spots like Missouri Down Under Adventure Zoo, Van Buren Riverfront Park, and parts of the Ozark National Scenic Riverways outside of Big Spring. Of course, travelers willing to head about an hour north can find even more adventure at the epic Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park.
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