Bennett Springs, Lebanon, MO 65536

## Overview Bennett Spring is one of Missouri's largest springs and the centerpiece of Bennett Spring State Park, located approximately 12 miles west of Lebanon, Missouri. Established as a state park in 1923, Bennett Spring has drawn visitors for well over a century — long before the park's official creation, the spring and its surroundings were a popular gathering place for locals and travelers alike. The spring rises from a deep karst system in the Ozark Plateau, producing an impressive average flow of approximately 100 million gallons of water per day, making it one of the four largest springs in Missouri. The water emerges from a collapsed cave opening at the base of a bluff and feeds directly into Spring Branch, a crystal-clear stream that flows roughly a mile before joining the Niangua River. The spring's consistent, cool water temperature — typically around 58°F (14°C) year-round — creates ideal conditions for rainbow trout, which the Missouri Department of Conservation stocks daily during trout season (March 1 through October 31). The park straddles the border of Dallas and Laclede counties and encompasses over 3,000 acres of scenic Ozark woodland. Beyond its renowned trout fishing, Bennett Spring State Park offers camping, hiking trails (including the 7.5-mile Natural Tunnel Trail), canoeing and kayaking on the Niangua River, a swimming pool, a nature center, and a rustic dining lodge. The spring itself is a beautiful spot to visit even for non-anglers — the deep blue-green pool at the spring's source is a striking natural feature, and the surrounding bluffs and hardwood forest make for a picturesque setting in every season. Historically, the spring's powerful flow was harnessed in the 19th century to power a grist mill, and remnants of that milling heritage are part of the park's interpretive history. The water from Bennett Spring has long been regarded by visitors as exceptionally clean and refreshing, and the spring has historically been used as a drinking water source by the surrounding community. ## Directions 1. From **Lebanon, Missouri**, head west on **Missouri Highway 64** (also known as MO-64 W). 2. Continue on Highway 64 for approximately **12 miles** through rolling Ozark countryside. 3. Watch for signs directing you to **Bennett Spring State Park** — the park entrance will be on your left (south side of the road). 4. Once inside the park, follow **Trout Drive** to reach the spring area, parking lots, and trailheads. 5. GPS coordinates: **37.716584, -92.856879** — the nearest address is 93 Trout Drive, Lebanon, MO 65536. ## What to Expect Upon arrival, you'll find a well-maintained state park with paved roads, ample parking, and clear signage. The spring itself is accessible via a short, easy walk from the parking area near the spring branch. The deep pool at the spring's source is a vivid blue-green, surrounded by a rocky bluff and lush vegetation — it's a genuinely impressive sight. During trout season (March 1 – October 31), the area around Spring Branch is bustling with anglers. A daily trout tag is required in addition to a Missouri fishing license. Outside of trout season, the park takes on a quieter, more contemplative character and remains open for hiking, picnicking, and exploring. The park offers both basic and electric campsites, as well as a camp store and the rustic dining lodge that serves hearty meals. Several hiking trails wind through the surrounding hills, offering views of the Niangua River valley and Ozark forest. The Natural Tunnel Trail is a local favorite, passing through a natural rock tunnel formation. The spring area can be visited year-round, though spring and fall offer the most comfortable weather and the most vibrant scenery. Summer weekends can be busy, especially during trout season. Winter visits are peaceful, with the spring's constant flow and temperature creating a misty, atmospheric scene on cold mornings. There is a small daily vehicle entrance fee for Missouri state parks. Check with Bennett Spring State Park directly for current rates, camping reservations, and trout season schedules.