Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Montauk State Park is located in the southeastern part of Missouri in the Ozark Highlands, spanning roughly 2,758 acres. The park is centered around Montauk Spring, one of the largest springs in the state that produces an average of 53 million gallons of water daily, feeding into the Current River. The area is characterized by lush oak-hickory forests, clear waters, and rolling hills, supporting a diverse ecosystem including white-tailed deer, wild turkey, and a variety of fish species, particularly rainbow and brown trout. Established in 1926, Montauk State Park was initially developed by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), which built many of the original park structures still in use today, including the famous stone cabins and the springhouse. The park is renowned for its trout hatchery and is a prime destination for fly-fishing enthusiasts seeking to catch rainbow, brown, and brook trout in its spring-fed waters. Visitors can enjoy multiple outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, picnicking, trout fishing, horseback riding, and canoeing on the Current River. The park's network of trails offers a range of scenic views and experiences, from gentle walks along the river to more rugged forest hikes. Notable landmarks include the Montauk Fish Hatchery and Observation Deck, the historic Montauk Lodge, and the tranquil waters of Montauk Spring, which remains a focal point of the park. Its combination of natural beauty, recreational offerings, and historical significance makes Montauk State Park a popular and accessible outdoor destination year-round.
