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State Park · MO

Roaring River State Park

Roaring River State Park is a scenic public recreation area in southwestern Missouri known for its excellent trout fishing, lush forested landscapes, and family-friendly outdoor activities.

State Park2,3024+ Trails

Designation

State Park

Total Wilderness Area

2,302

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Roaring River State Park

Roaring River State Park is a scenic public recreation area in southwestern Missouri known for its excellent trout fishing, lush forested landscapes, and family-friendly outdoor activities.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Roaring River State Park covers over 2,300 acres along the banks of Roaring River in Barry County, Missouri. Created around a natural spring and trout hatchery, the park's landscape features heavily wooded hills, clear streams, and well-maintained facilities. The park is a popular destination for anglers seeking trout fishing, supported by the state-operated hatchery that stocks the river with rainbow and brown trout. Beyond fishing, the park offers extensive hiking and mountain biking trails winding through hardwood forests and scenic river views. Visitors can enjoy picnicking, camping, and wildlife viewing in a peaceful natural setting. The park's historic stone dam and trout hatchery visitors center provide unique educational insight into local fishery management and conservation efforts. Roaring River State Park welcomes year-round visitors with its blend of aquatic recreation, forested trails, and well-kept amenities, making it a beloved spot for families, anglers, and outdoor enthusiasts.

Field Guide · State Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Roaring River State Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Unleashing Trails: Ride Bike the Back 40  in Bella Vista★ 7.8⌖ 24 miMountain Biking
Gosforth Lane

Unleashing Trails: Ride Bike the Back 40 in Bella Vista

Explore the Back 40 Trail System near Bella Vista, Arkansas. With over 40 miles of trails for all skill levels, it's a go-to for mountain biking amid Ozark forests. Year-round access makes it perfect for adventure seekers looking for a challenge and scenic views. Drive-in from nearby Bella Vista.

Mountain BikingView Details→
Trail Running the Back 40 Trails in Bella Vista, Arkansas★ 7.0⌖ 25 miTrail Running
68-72 Castleford Dr

Trail Running the Back 40 Trails in Bella Vista, Arkansas

Explore the Back 40 Trails in Bella Vista, Arkansas. With moderate difficulty, this trail is perfect for trail running and mountain biking. Enjoy elevation changes and beautiful scenery, especially in fall. It's a peaceful route that's less crowded year-round.

Trail RunningView Details→
Hiking the Eureka Springs Trails★ 7.0⌖ 26 miHiking
71 Pivot Rock Rd

Hiking the Eureka Springs Trails

Explore Eureka Springs, AR with trails like Lake Leatherwood's 25-mile network. Suitable for all skill levels, these trails offer hiking, kayaking, and historical insights. Best visited in spring and fall, it's both family-friendly and adventure-worthy.

Charming Adventures in Eureka Springs★ 7.6⌖ 27 miSightseeing
Eureka Springs

Charming Adventures in Eureka Springs

Explore the charming town of Eureka Springs, Arkansas, featuring Victorian architecture and natural springs. Enjoy hiking, biking, and kayaking with scenic vistas. Perfect in spring and fall, it's a great spot for adventure seekers looking to relax and take in the unique blend of culture and nature.

SightseeingView Details→

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Roaring River trout hatchery with daily trout feeding demonstrations✦ Clear, spring-fed Roaring River ideal for trout fishing✦ Historic stone dam and trout hatchery buildings✦ Hiking trails offering forest and river valley views
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Roaring River State Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Roaring River State Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Roaring River State Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Roaring River State Park
Park Recreation

Mountain Biking

Available in Roaring River State Park
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Roaring River State Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Roaring River State Park
Park Recreation

Picnicking

Available in Roaring River State Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Roaring River State Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Daily vehicle entrance fee required; annual state park passes accepted. Hatchery and trails open to the public without additional fees.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Roaring River State Park

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Roaring River Campground

Located near the park entrance, this campground offers electric and non-electric sites, cabins, and amenities including showers and restrooms.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Roaring River State Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Purdy
⌖ 4.15 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Purdy, Missouri

A quiet rural town offering access to calm waterways, gentle hiking, and relaxing outdoor experiences in the Ozark foothills.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Exeter
⌖ 5.83 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Exeter, Missouri

A quiet rural town perfect for nature lovers seeking outdoor activities along the Thompson River and nearby natural areas.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Cassville
⌖ 6.41 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Cassville, Missouri

A quiet, welcoming town offering access to Ozark foothills adventures with excellent paddling, hiking, and fishing opportunities nearby.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Monett
⌖ 11.35 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Monett, Missouri

A quiet town serving as a gateway to Southwest Missouri’s natural attractions, blending easy access to trails, parks, and rivers with small-town charm.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Pierce City
⌖ 13.62 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Pierce City, Missouri

A quiet rural town offering access to Ozarks outdoor activities with peaceful hiking, paddling, and wildlife watching opportunities.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Eagle Rock
⌖ 17.29 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Eagle Rock, Missouri

A tranquil lakeside community offering rich access to water sports, fishing, and hiking in the heart of the Ozarks.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Roaring River State Park

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.