Bennett Springs State Park RV & Campground Guide
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Bennett Springs State Park is located in southwestern Missouri. It encompasses 3,216 acres, which includes the Niangua River and the Bennett Springs. Each day over 100 million gallons of water make their way through Bennet Springs to a beautiful fishing spot that every trout enthusiast loves. This area was founded by settlers looking for streams to power their grist and flour mills. In addition to the water power they needed, they found an excellent hunting ground. Today the land is enjoyed by visitors looking to relax while camping, fishing, and hiking.
Spring 37 - 78 F
Summer 64 - 90 F
Fall 37 - 82 F
Winter 23 - 49 F
RV Resorts & Campsites in Bennett Springs State Park
There are five campgrounds inside Bennett Springs State Park. Campground 1 has 48 campsites with full hookups. The perks to staying in this area include a woodlot where you can cut your firewood, a convenient dump station, and a large parking lot for visitors. Hot showers, restrooms, and potable water are just a few of the amenities found here. Seasonal campsites are available from April through October in Campgrounds 2 and 3. Between the two, you’ll have 38 campsites with electric hookups to pick from. Campground 4 is open from February through October with 48 campsites with electric hookups. Finally, Campground 5 offers 47 campsites with electric hookups. All of these campgrounds have access to hot showers, potable water, and restrooms.
What to Do at
Bennett Springs State Park
The sparking clear waters in Bennett Springs State Park keep fishing enthusiasts happy with some of the state’s most popular trout fishing. On land, hiking trails allow those of all skill levels to explore the area up close. To make the most of your visit, take advantage of nearly 200 campsites while enjoying the sights and sounds of nature and the park’s wildlife.
Fishing
There are three fishing zones in Bennett Springs State Park, each with its own set of rules. Check with a park ranger or park store employee before heading out for the latest list of regulations. Daily trout tags are required. You can also fish on the Niangua River for sunfish, bass, catfish, bluegill, and crawfish.
Nature Watching
The park’s wetter areas make the perfect environment for minnows, darters, pickerel frogs, redback salamanders, northern water snakes, and river otters. Other commonly seen animals include woodpeckers, nine-banded armadillos, muskrats, and bobcats.
Flora and Fauna
The lush bottomland environments in Bennett Springs State Park blend in with the oak-hickory woodlands and surrounding hills beautifully. Throughout the park, you’ll find 480 species of flowering plants as well as 90 different types of trees, vines, and shrubs.
Hiking
Hiking is the perfect way to explore Bennett Springs State Park with seven trails of varying lengths and skill levels. Shorter trails include the easy quarter-mile Bluff Trail and the half-mile loop Whistle Trail that follows the spring to the river. Oak Hill Trail is a half-mile loop near the nature center, and Forest Bridge Trail connects Bluff Trail to the park’s amphitheater. For more of a challenge try the three-mile Nature Tunnel Trail that goes through the forest and a 300-foot natural tunnel.
Boating
Canoes and rafts are a common sight on the Niangua River. If you don't have your own canoe, you can rent one at the park store. You can travel the river on your own or join one of the organized float trips.
Swimming
Visitors have many options when it comes to swimming in Bennett Springs State Park. You can wade in the spring, swim in the river, or enjoy the Olympic-size swimming pool. The swimming pool is located between campgrounds one and three near the park’s office, motel, and store. It’s open from Memorial Day until mid-August and has a lifeguard on duty.
Biking
Bennett Springs State Park’s seven hiking trails and many of the paved roads are open to bicycles. Biking is rewarded with some of Missouri’s most beautiful scenery.
How to Get to
Bennett Springs State Park
From the town of Bennett Springs, go southeast toward BSSP1 Road. Turn left on BSSP1 Road. Turn left on MO-64 ALT E. In 0.2 miles, you’ll turn left. At 50 feet, the nature center will be on your right.
Entering Bennett Springs State Park
Bennett Springs State Park can accommodate RVs up to 65 feet in length. A few of the parking lots can accommodate large RVs, but you may want to stop at your campsite and walk to the park store, nature center, or playground. Accessible campsites are available throughout the park, and you’ll find accessible parking spaces adjacent to the sidewalk leading to the park store and restrooms. The park is open from sunrise to one hour after sunset.
Bennett Springs State Park Entry Fee : $0.0
Frequently Asked Questions About Bennett Springs State Park
Summer is the best time of the year to visit Bennett Springs State Park. The swimming pool will be open and the weather will be ideal for fishing, hiking, and other activities.
Common wildlife found in Bennett Springs State Park includes pickerel frogs, redback salamanders, northern water snakes, and river otters. You may even catch a glimpse of a bobcat, muskrat, or nine-banded armadillo.
There are close to 200 designated campsites found in Bennett Springs State Park. These are scattered among five individual campgrounds located inside the park’s boundaries.
All of the campgrounds except Campground 5 accept reservations. Campground 5 is first come, first served. Campsites range in price from $14 to $46, depending on the location and time of year.
Pets are welcome in Bennett Springs State Park. They must be kept on a leash at all times, and you are expected to clean up after them.