(Eminence MO)
Part of the Ozark National Scenic Riverways …
Alley Spring was in a beautiful setting, and next to it was Alley Mill. The mill was restored nicely with the original machinery still inside that was used for processing the grain. It used rollers instead of grinding stones, and a submerged turbine rather than a waterwheel.
Ozark National Scenic Riverways – Alley Spring & Mill
Machinery inside Alley Mill
Again, the spring emerged from a cliff, and had a beautiful blue tone. A trail ran around the large pool, with the water pouring over a small dam, and a cascade. It was a very picturesque scene.
Alley Spring
Alley Spring Cascade
The trail continued along the creek that flowed from the spring. Limestone rock formations on one side, and crystal clear water in the creek on the other made for a lovely stroll.
Rocks by trail along the Creek
Creek flowing from Alley Spring
Although there was a very nice campground there by the Jacks Fork River, I decided to continue on to another camp further south. It was a good choice because the area received torrential rains that night, and was then closed due to flooding.
Camp: Mark Twain NF-Greer Crossing CG drycamp
Scene: Spring, mill, creek, rocks
Note: This visit occurred in September.
Beautiful! I found it fascinating about the water wheel (which uses the dropping of water) vs. the water turbine (which uses the actual pressure of the flow). Cool stuff!
I would sure like to visit this place one day. It sounded “state of the art” for that time.
The mill was impressive indeed. However, I thought the spring and flow were the best part and really beautiful.
Good call to leave that area for another campground. I would hate to have to pack up and move, especially under the threat of heavy rains and flooding.
At the new camp, it continued to rain; so, I left for higher ground, and spent the night at a roadside pullout. I was really glad that I followed the prompting I felt.