Come to this state park to fish, paddle down the river fed by Arkansas’ largest spring and see where the fast-flowing water was harnessed for hydroelectricity in the 1900s.
The historic grounds of Mammoth Spring State Park contain the pristine and powerful waters of an Ozark Mountain spring, surrounded by meadow-like riverbanks and tall hardwood forests. The spring’s pure waters surge from the mountaintops and into the Spring River’s expansive pools below. Paddle your canoe around the river and go fishing for trout. Explore the park’s historic sites to learn about the hydroelectric industries that once operated here.
Visit the park’s Arkansas Welcome Centre to find out about the park’s unique waterway. Flowing at almost 10 million gallons (37,854 kiloliters) an hour, this powerful spring is one of the great natural wonders of Arkansas and Middle America. Check out the Depot Museum to learn about the former 1886 Frisco train station and explore an antique caboose. To the south of the museum, see the enormous hydroelectric dam and the remnants of a water mill. Take the walkway spanning the top of the dam, so you can peer over the edge to see the water plunging below.
Walk a lap of the river’s magnificent 10-acre (4-hectare) lake to enjoy views of the still waters and tranquil lakeside park. Stroll onto the small island at the northern end of the pool and see the water churning through the rapids below the pretty bridge. Rent a canoe and float down the Spring River or see if the trout are biting.
Mammoth Spring State Park has picnic pavilions, a ball field and a children’s playground, making it an ideal place to bring the family for a daytrip. Alternatively, book a night at the Mammoth Spring Campground to make the most of the pretty forested surroundings. An RV park is also located nearby.
The state park neighbours the Missouri border in far northern Arkansas. The park is free to enter. The museum and caboose have no admission costs, but are closed on Mondays. Boat rental is available between April and September. The nearest major town is Jonesboro, located 90 minutes’ drive away.
