Maramec Spring

## Overview Maramec Spring is one of Missouri's most impressive natural springs, located near the town of St. James in the east-central Ozarks of Phelps County. Ranked as the state's fifth-largest spring, Maramec produces an average daily flow of approximately 96 million gallons of water — equivalent to roughly 153 cubic yards per second — surging from a deep, blue-green pool at the base of a bluff. The spring and surrounding 1,860-acre park are privately owned and maintained by the James Foundation, which operates the grounds as a scenic, open-air park open to the public. The Missouri Department of Conservation manages a trout hatchery and fishery on-site, making Maramec Spring one of the most popular trout fishing destinations in the state. Rainbow trout are raised in the hatchery's raceways, fed by the spring's constant, cool water, and seasonal catch-and-keep trout fishing draws anglers from across the region. Beyond the spring itself, visitors can explore the historic remains of the Maramec Iron Works, a 19th-century ironworks complex that harnessed the spring's powerful flow for hydropower. The ironworks operated from 1826 to 1876 and played a significant role in Missouri's early industrial history. Interpretive signs and preserved ruins — including a massive stone furnace stack — offer a fascinating glimpse into the area's past. In recognition of its geological and ecological significance, Maramec Spring was designated a National Natural Landmark on October 21, 1971. ## Directions 1. From **St. James, Missouri**, head south on **Highway 8** (also marked as Maramec Spring Drive). 2. Continue south for approximately **6 miles** — the route is well-signed for Maramec Spring Park. 3. Follow **Maramec Spring Drive (21701 Maramec Spring Dr)** directly to the park entrance. 4. There is typically a small vehicle entrance fee collected at the gate. **GPS Coordinates:** 37.954124, -91.533194 ## What to Expect Maramec Spring emerges from a large, strikingly blue pool surrounded by lush Ozark forest and limestone bluffs. The volume of water is remarkable — you can watch millions of gallons per day boiling up from the spring's vent, creating a powerful current that feeds into the Meramec River (note: the river and spring use slightly different spellings, a historical quirk). The park is well-maintained with paved walkways, picnic areas, shelters, and restroom facilities. A boardwalk and observation area near the spring pool allow close-up views of the water. The trout hatchery is open to visitors and is especially popular with families — you can watch thousands of trout in the raceways. The ruins of the Maramec Iron Works are scattered throughout the park grounds, with the towering stone furnace stack being the most prominent landmark. Interpretive signage explains the history of the ironworks and its connection to the spring. The spring maintains a relatively constant water temperature year-round (typically around 59°F / 15°C), characteristic of large Ozark springs. While the spring has historically been valued for its water, visitors should note that the site is primarily managed as a park and fishery rather than a drinking water source. The park is open seasonally (generally March through October), and a modest entrance fee per vehicle is charged. Fall is an especially beautiful time to visit, as the surrounding hardwood forest puts on a vivid display of autumn color. Fishing requires a daily trout tag in addition to a Missouri fishing license during trout season. Whether you're drawn by the geology, the fishing, the history, or simply the beauty of one of Missouri's great springs, Maramec Spring Park is well worth the visit.