Trout Fishing and Trails at Roaring River State Park

Whether we go as a family or with friends, Roaring River State Park in Cassville is one of our go-to day trip outings. An easy drive from Springfield, this versatile, rugged park appeals to a variety of interests, from fishing to hiking and exploring. It’s family-friendly, too! Kids enjoy the park’s Nature Center, easy trails and watching trout at the hatchery. They can even get wet in a few designated wading areas. If you plan to fish, start your visit at the park store. Since Roaring River is a hatchery-stocked trout park, all anglers must purchase a daily trout tag. You’ll find hot coffee and snacks here too. Just uphill from the store is the modern Emory Melton Inn and Conference Center where you can stay or dine. Many park amenities, including a lodge near the hatchery, were built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. Overnight visitors may also stay in cabins or at one of three campgrounds.

We typically start our day fly fishing at a section of the river near Campground 3. Later, we move upstream to my favorite area near the hatchery and spring. Most of the river is sectioned by pretty cascades over low rock dams. Trout—and therefore anglers—seem to like the moving water. The river’s headwaters start at one of Missouri’s most photogenic springs. It emerges from a deep canyon gorge into a pretty turquoise pool that attracts trout and visitors. The spring’s daily water output of more than 20 million gallons ensures this White River tributary is always flowing. Roaring River Spring is also the deepest in Missouri. It’s been explored to 472 feet, although it goes farther than that.

After fishing, lunch and visiting the spring, we generally take a hike. This park has seven designated trails that range from easy to challenging. Three of our favorites start near the hatchery. The short, uphill Deer Leap Trail includes a balcony overlook that offers an amazing birds-eye view of the park. The looping Devil’s Kitchen Trail, which starts across from the CCC Lodge, goes by an interesting collapsed rocky outcrop (the “kitchen”) and several caves. Recently we hopped on the River Trail, an easy, mostly level walk that runs parallel to the river, passing by the picnic area and pretty bluffs. Another family favorite is the Pibern Trail, which starts in a different section of the park at Campground 1. No matter how many times we visit, there’s always something to discover at Roaring River State Park.

Take the Scenic Route

Whether you visit Roaring River for the day or stay overnight, your kids will love a side-trip adventure only minutes away. After fishing and hiking, cool off at Beebe’s Roaring River Waterslide, just uphill from the park at 23626 Missouri 112 in Cassville. The hill-hugging waterslide, owned by the same couple since 1994, is open 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. every day except Tuesdays between Memorial and Labor Day weekends. For $12 a person per hour (cash only), riders can use a pad or go padless down the 300-foot slide into a 3-foot-deep pool. Visitors may bring something to drink, but coolers and outside food aren’t allowed. However, a snack cafe is open until 5:30 p.m.