We stopped by Roaring River State Park to stretch our legs while in route to Beaver Lakefront Cabins in Eureka Springs, Arkansas. It was certainly impressive, and we spent way more time here than we intended. There’s so much to see and do. In fact, I will be making a trip back to hike the trails I didn’t have time for, and I will update this when I do!
Hiking Roaring River State Park
Do you like rugged terrain hiking? If so, there’s roughly 8.6 miles of rugged terrain hiking divided between 4 separate trails. You will want quality footwear made for hiking that is comfortable for you! Likewise, I recommend a walking stick or trekking pole for these trails!
I decided to hike the short but rugged Deer Leap Trail without my walking stick. After all, it’s only .2 miles to the top. I can do that in my sleep, right? *EYE ROLL PLEASE!* As a result of my cocky attitude, my thighs were on fire by the time I got to the top, and I nearly lost my footing a time or two. Lesson learned. Right?
Do you prefer moderate terrain hiking? If so, there’s roughly 2.1 miles of moderate terrain hiking divided between 3 separate trails. Regardless your preference, you will certainly enjoy the scenery here!
For your convenience, you can find Roaring River State Park Trail Maps here.
Hatchery
Got kids? They will love this! They actually incubate trout eggs here. How cool is that? You’ll get to walk through the raceways and watch them swim about. As a result, you’ll get to see the various stages of growth and snap a few cool photos.
Did you visit the hatchery between 2018 and 2021? If so, did you notice the hatchery was dry because they were doing renovations? FYI, you can plan your trip now! It’s open, and the fry are swimming.
Do you still have some energy left after enjoying all the hatchery has to offer? Maybe you would like to visit the nature center too?! More information on the Ozark Chinquapin Nature Center here. There are some displays and live critters in there!
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Trout Fishing at Roaring River State Park
Are you a hard core angler? I am! March 1st is a super busy day here. If you plan to fish for trout on opening day, you need to arrive very early to pick a spot. You’ll want to know the park’s fishing hours so you know when you can cast your pole. You’ll also want to know which baits you can use in which zones. Different rules apply to different zones.
In addition to a daily trout tag, you’ll need a fishing permit from the Missouri Department of Conservation if your between the ages of 15 & 65. For your convenience, there is an on-site store should you need to purchase a permit, tags, or other supplies.
Worried about where to clean your catch? Don’t! There is a nice fish cleaning station with electricity and water. You’ll find it not only convenient but handicap accessible.
Thrifty Tip! Basic campsites here are $16 a night during the on-season with shower facilities and bathrooms for your convenience. You will need to plan “WAY” ahead if you want to wake up at Roaring River State Park on opening day of trout season. You can make reservations up to 12 months in advance. Reserving your site early will help ensure you get a thrifty spot.
For your convenience, you can find Roaring River State Park Trout Fishing Information here!
Camping
This park offers many options for camping so you can choose what best fits your needs. They have everything from basic sites to sites with full infrastructure hookups for your RV. Additionally, the park has showers-houses and restrooms for your convenience. However, there are shower-house and restroom limitations in the off-season and certain campgrounds are closed.
For your convenience, you can find Roaring River State Park Campground Maps and additional information here!
If you would like to make a reservation, you can do that by following this link to the Missouri State Parks Camping Reservation System.
Wading & Swimming
There is a multi-use area in Zone 2 where you can wade and swim in the water. To my knowledge, this is the only area where you can get in the water. The swimming pool has been permanently closed!
However, if you’re up for a 15 minute drive there is a gravel swim beach at Eagle Rock Marina. A $5.00 day use fee per vehicle makes for a pretty thrifty swimming adventure! They have picnic tables a facilities for visitors to use. Need directions?
Picnicking or Grilling Out
Roaring River State Park has a great area for picnicking or grilling out. There are tables with grills and ample shade. Plenty of space between tables to prevent crowding. Additionally, the area is handicap accessible with bathrooms close by.
Would you like the kids out of your hair while you prepare your meal? Maybe they would like to play on the playground?! They’ll work up an appetite, and they’ll sleep well.
Learn more about the picnic area at Roaring River State Park.
Additional Information on Roaring River State Park
This park has so much more to offer. Learn more about that here!
Roaring River State Park Location
Need lodging?
Finding the best place to stay can sometimes be an overwhelming chore that sucks the fun right out of trip planning. I use booking.com, a lot! It’s super easy to use and saves a ton of time. In fact, booking.com has filters so you can easily compare options and find exactly what fits your needs!
Worthy of Notable Mention
Inspiration Point on US Highway 62 in Eureka Springs, Arkansas is a scenic 34-minute drive for Roaring River State Park. It is a beautiful overlook you can enjoy for FREE and there just happens to be a store filled with antiques. Learn more about Inspiration Point here. Need directions?
