Big Spring

(Van Buren MO)
Part of the Ozark National Scenic Riverways …

Big Spring boiled up, from the base of a limestone cliff, at a rate of 286 million gallons per day. Water temperatures in the spring remains about 55-58 degrees year round. A large, clear pond formed before it flowed into the Current River not too far away.

Ozark National Scenic Riverways

Ozark National Scenic Riverways – Big Spring

One of the most popular springs in the system it was developed in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). They built a stone lodge and rental cabins, and bridges all of which have been restored.

Ozark National Scenic Riverways

Cascades & Pool from Big Spring

Ozark National Scenic Riverways

Flowing into the Creek

A large park like setting provided picnic and group areas, trails, and river access for boating and fishing. A log cabin was moved to the park and used for craft demonstrations. The campground had electric and drycamp spots.

Ozark National Scenic Riverways

Current River at Big Spring

Ozark National Scenic Riverways

Cabin built by the CCC

I stayed for a couple of nights between the spring and the river. An electric site, to run the air conditioner, was chosen for relief from the heat and humidity. I was surprised that it was still so uncomfortable in the latter part of September.

Camp: Big Spring CG-ONSR electric
Scene: Spring, river, cabins

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4 Responses to Big Spring

  1. Bradford Harris October 29, 2016 at 4:51 pm #

    What a beautiful place! That is a very large spring. It looks like a terrific place to fish and enjoy the clear water. I can only imagine (and be envious) of places that are that warm right now. 🙂

    • Pleinguy October 30, 2016 at 7:31 am #

      I believe it is the largest spring in the system. Warm is OK, but the humidity is yuk!

  2. Martha October 29, 2016 at 7:32 pm #

    I have never been to the Ozarks, and your recent posts have made me determined to get there one of these days. It must be a beautiful place; I’d love to stay in a cabin built by the CCC and that still looks so good! I don’t think the modern day cabins at most parks will last nearly as well or as long.

    • Pleinguy October 30, 2016 at 7:32 am #

      I would suggest visiting at a cooler time of year.

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