Roaring River Park and Cave
Marvel at millions of gallons of turquoise water gushing from a deep cave, fish for trout, and explore scenic trails in this Ozark gem.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Roaring River Park and Cave
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Marvel at millions of gallons of turquoise water gushing from a deep cave, fish for trout, and explore scenic trails in this Ozark gem.
"I was in complete awe when I went to Roaring River. It had felt like I stepped into another world."
Admire the Spring's Blue
The water's vibrant turquoise hue is stunning! No swimming allowed in the spring itself.
Pack for Fishing Fun
Bring your gear if you plan to fish for trout; it's a major draw here.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Roaring River Spring
Cave Entrance
Witness the awe-inspiring sight of millions of gallons of crystal-clear, turquoise water gushing from a deep cave. It's a truly impressive natural wonder.
Trout Fishing
Roaring River
Cast a line in one of the state's most popular trout fishing streams. The river's scenic beauty makes for a relaxing and rewarding fishing trip.
Roaring River Cave
Near the Spring
Explore the depths of this natural cave. While tours are available, be aware of potential fees and guide interactions.
Fish Hatchery
Adjacent to the Spring
Visit the hatchery and feed the fish! It's a fun and interactive activity, especially for families with children.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for the Best Experience
Cave Tours & Fees
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Admire the Spring's Blue
The water's vibrant turquoise hue is stunning! No swimming allowed in the spring itself.
Pack for Fishing Fun
Bring your gear if you plan to fish for trout; it's a major draw here.
Cave Tour Prep
Cave tours have a fee. Some find guides pushy; be prepared for this.
Feed the Fish!
A highlight for many, especially kids! Buy food at the hatchery. 
Tips
from all over the internet
Admire the Spring's Blue
The water's vibrant turquoise hue is stunning! No swimming allowed in the spring itself.
Pack for Fishing Fun
Bring your gear if you plan to fish for trout; it's a major draw here.
Cave Tour Prep
Cave tours have a fee. Some find guides pushy; be prepared for this.
Feed the Fish!
A highlight for many, especially kids! Buy food at the hatchery.
Easy Access for All
The park is 2WD friendly with paved paths to the spring. Great for families!
Leave No Trace
Help keep this beautiful park pristine by packing out all trash.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently awestruck by the natural beauty of Roaring River, particularly the stunningly blue spring, describing it as stepping into another world. The park offers a great mix of activities like trout fishing and family-friendly fun at the hatchery. However, some find the cave tours to be a bit pricey and have had mixed experiences with guides.
"The locals were nice, the place was clean and there were places on site to buy food. The location was Chef's kiss!"
Taedra Ricketts
"Honestly, I was in complete awe when I went to Roaring River. It had felt like Istepped into another world. The mood and the atmosphere was just different, different in a good way ofcourse.
A point to note, is that the community itself is called Roaring River. With the way river ran, which was loud and aggressive, you'd quickly realise why they gave the community that name. The river makes for a great scenic backdrop.
As it relates to the attraction, there are walkin tour of the community available. In these tours they'd show you around community and give some interesting information. Don't forget to give them a little tip when they're finished.
There is also the Roaring River Cave, which you can also tour. Inside the cave is normally illuminated with actual light, but when I visited the place, it was hella dark. You have to pay a fee to enter the cave...
If you're not feelin a walkin tour or cave tour, then you just simply take a swim in the river.
The RastaSafari Experience is another place in Roaring River. They do dune buggy drivin. I forgot the cost to use the buggys.
Overall, Roaring River is a great experience and best believe that more is still offered"
Jamaica Travel Vibez
"I liked the river (free). Maybe I'd have liked the caves, if it weren't so overpriced and if I had pushed stronger against the self-proclaimed "guide" dude that attached himself to us, looking for a tip, not leaving us alone.
In the cave area with the candles there was another dude brushing his teeth. Did he live there??
My family was so annoyed with the "guide" that we scrapped the plan to go to the blue hole garden, fearing another sticky guide."
Vadim Meleshuk
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Roaring River State Park is located near Cassville, Missouri. It's about an hour's drive from Springfield, MO, and a short drive from Eureka Springs, Arkansas. The park is easily accessible by car, with paved roads leading directly to the main attractions.
Yes, the park generally accommodates RVs and larger vehicles. The roads are well-maintained, and there are designated parking areas. However, it's always a good idea to check for any specific size restrictions if you have a very large RV.
From Springfield, MO, take US-60 West. From Northwest Arkansas (like Eureka Springs), it's a scenic drive north. Many visitors combine a trip to Roaring River with Eureka Springs.
Public transportation options directly to Roaring River State Park are very limited. It is best accessed by private vehicle.
Roaring River State Park is approximately a 20-mile drive north of Eureka Springs, Arkansas, making it a popular day trip destination for visitors in that area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The park itself is free to enter and explore. However, there are fees associated with specific activities like guided cave tours.
The cost for the Roaring River Cave tour can vary. Some visitors have mentioned it being around $20 for a private guide, while others found it a bit pricey. It's best to inquire at the park for the most current pricing. +1
No, swimming is strictly prohibited in the Roaring River Spring itself due to its depth and the powerful outflow.
Roaring River State Park is generally open year-round during daylight hours. Specific facilities like the hatchery or visitor center may have their own operating schedules, so it's advisable to check their official website for the most up-to-date information.
It's recommended to check if advance booking is necessary for cave tours, especially during peak season or weekends, to ensure availability.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The main attractions include the stunning Roaring River Spring with its incredibly blue water, excellent trout fishing in the river, hiking trails, a fish hatchery where you can feed the fish, and the Roaring River Cave.
Yes, Roaring River State Park offers several hiking trails suitable for various fitness levels. The Devil's Kitchen trail is a popular option.
Absolutely! Kids love feeding the fish at the hatchery, exploring the easy-access spring area, and playing in the river. The park is very family-friendly.
Besides the abundant fish in the hatchery and river, you might spot various birds and other small woodland creatures native to the Ozarks region.
While swimming is not allowed in the main spring, visitors can often swim in designated areas of the Roaring River downstream from the spring, especially during warmer months.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are on-site dining options available, including a lodge restaurant and a store that sells food. Many visitors also enjoy picnicking in the park's designated areas. +1
Dining options often include classic American fare, and some visitors have enjoyed Jerk Chicken. The food can be a bit pricey, but it's convenient.
Absolutely! Roaring River State Park has several scenic picnic areas, making it a great option to bring your own food and enjoy a meal amidst nature.
The town of Cassville, located near the park, has grocery stores where you can purchase picnic supplies.
Dining hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check with the park's lodge or visitor center for the most current operating hours for their food services.
📸 📸 Photography
The Roaring River Spring with its vibrant blue water is a must-photograph spot. The riverbanks and hiking trails also offer beautiful scenic views.
Yes, the spring area is easily accessible with paved paths, making it simple to get close and capture stunning photos of the water.
Morning light often provides beautiful, soft illumination for the spring and surrounding nature. Midday can also be good, but watch for harsh shadows.
Drone usage is typically restricted in state parks to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. It's best to check the park's official regulations regarding drone operation.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive spring and landscapes. A polarizing filter can help enhance the blue of the water.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 The easy access to the spring means even the youngest can marvel at the stunning blue water without strenuous hiking. The park also offers hiking trails, picnic spots, and playgrounds, providing ample opportunities for outdoor fun and exploration. Consider bringing a picnic to enjoy in one of the scenic areas. The river itself offers opportunities for wading and playing in warmer months, though swimming in the main spring is prohibited.
🎣 Anglers and Outdoor Enthusiasts
Bring your fishing gear and spend a day by the river, enjoying the scenic surroundings. Beyond fishing, the park boasts hiking trails that cater to various levels of difficulty, allowing you to explore the natural beauty of the Ozarks.
The Roaring River Spring itself is a natural wonder worth admiring, and the surrounding landscape provides ample opportunities for nature photography and peaceful contemplation. +1📸 Photography Buffs
+1 The easy accessibility to the spring area allows for stunning shots of this natural phenomenon. Capture the sheer volume of water as it emerges from the cave, and experiment with different angles to showcase its depth and color. Beyond the spring, the riverbanks and hiking trails offer picturesque landscapes, especially during the golden hours of morning or late afternoon.
Consider using a polarizing filter to enhance the blue hues of the water and a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive views. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Astonishing Roaring River Spring
The water is famously a vibrant, almost unbelievable turquoise blue, creating a mesmerizing visual spectacle. +1 While the spring itself is a breathtaking sight, remember that swimming is prohibited here to preserve its natural beauty and for safety reasons. Visitors can easily access the spring area via paved, 2WD-friendly paths, making it a convenient stop for everyone, including families with children.
The sheer volume and clarity of the water are truly impressive, and many visitors describe stepping into another world upon seeing it. Watching the water surge from the cave is a powerful experience. The park often shows videos of deep-dive explorations at the Nature Center, offering a glimpse into the spring's mysterious depths.
The spring feeds the Roaring River, which is renowned for its trout fishing, making the area a dual attraction for nature lovers and anglers alike. Exploring the Roaring River Cave
Despite potential drawbacks, a guided tour can offer insights into the cave's geology and local lore.
It's advisable to inquire about current tour prices and what the tour entails before committing. If you're not keen on a guided tour or the associated costs, you can still enjoy the natural beauty of the spring and the river.
Trout Fishing and Family Fun
The Roaring River itself provides a beautiful and dynamic setting for a day of fishing. Whether you're an experienced angler or a beginner, the opportunity to catch trout here is a major draw. Beyond fishing, the park offers a wealth of family-friendly activities. A must-do for many, especially children, is visiting the fish hatchery and feeding the fish.
+2 This interactive experience is always a hit and provides great photo opportunities. The park also features hiking trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds, ensuring there's something for everyone to enjoy. The accessibility of the park, with its paved paths and easy-to-reach spring, makes it an ideal destination for families with young children or those with mobility concerns.
The combination of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and family-oriented attractions makes Roaring River State Park a well-rounded destination for a day trip or a longer stay. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit