Mastadon State Park, Imperial, MO, 63052

## Overview Mastodon State Historic Site (commonly called Mastodon State Park) in Imperial, Missouri, is home to a lovely natural spring that flows year-round along the park's Spring Branch Trail. Situated in Jefferson County, just south of St. Louis, this park is perhaps best known for its remarkable paleontological history — it was here that archaeologists discovered evidence of the Clovis people alongside American mastodon bones, making it one of the most significant archaeological sites in North America. The Kimmswick Bone Bed, located within the park, provided the first solid evidence that humans and mastodons coexisted in eastern North America. Beyond its deep history, the park offers visitors a chance to enjoy a beautiful, always-flowing spring in a scenic woodland setting. The spring feeds into a branch that meanders through the trail area, creating a peaceful and picturesque environment. The water has been historically appreciated by visitors for its clarity and steady flow. As with any natural water source, the water has not been officially tested or certified for drinking, though visitors have reported it to be clean and refreshing. Mastodon State Historic Site encompasses roughly 425 acres of rolling terrain, forests, and creek bottoms, making it a wonderful destination for nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and spring seekers alike. ## Directions 1. From downtown St. Louis, head south on Interstate 55 toward the town of Imperial, Missouri (approximately 45 minutes). 2. Take the exit for Highway 21/Imperial Main Street and head west. 3. Follow signs for Mastodon State Historic Site. The park entrance is located at **1044 Charles J. Becker Drive, Imperial, MO 63052**. 4. Once inside the park, proceed to the main parking area near the trailheads. 5. From the parking area, follow the **Spring Branch Trail**. The spring is located a short walk from the lot along this trail — look and listen for flowing water as you make your way along the path. **GPS Coordinates:** 38.379848, -90.385329 ## What to Expect The spring is situated along the Spring Branch Trail, one of the park's most accessible and scenic routes. The trail is relatively flat and short, making it suitable for visitors of varying fitness levels. The spring itself flows consistently throughout the year, even during drier months, and the surrounding woodland provides shade and a tranquil atmosphere. The water emerges clearly and feeds a small branch stream that winds through the forest floor. The area around the spring is well-maintained as part of the state park system. Visitors will also find picnic areas, restrooms, and the park's museum and visitor center nearby, which houses exhibits on the mastodon discoveries and Clovis-era artifacts found on-site. The park is open year-round, though hours may vary seasonally. There is no entrance fee for the grounds, though the museum may have a small admission charge. The combination of natural beauty, easy access, and deep historical significance makes this one of the most rewarding spring visits in the greater St. Louis area.