Blue Spring, Missouri

Overview

Blue Spring is Missouri's liquid sapphire, a natural wonder so vividly blue you'll swear someone spilled the sky into a forest hollow. Tucked into the Ozark National Scenic Riverways, this spring gushes over 90 million gallons of water a day and is one of the deepest in the state-over 300 feet, although divers haven't hit bottom yet. Located along the Current River, just 14 miles east of Eminence, it's a place of serenity, science, and jaw-dropping beauty. Whether you paddle in, hike to it, or just stare in silence, Blue Spring proves that the best magic is water, gravity, and time.

Top Attractions

Blue Spring Itself

That unforgettable turquoise-blue pool surrounded by forest-view it from the bluff or up close on the boardwalk.

Spring Trail

A scenic 1.5-mile roundtrip hike through hardwood forest and wildflowers, ending at the spring overlook.

Current River Paddling

Float or kayak to the spring from Pulltite or Round Spring-it appears suddenly like a hidden oasis.

Ozark National Scenic Riverways

A wonderland of rivers, springs, caves, and wildlife Blue Spring is one of many but steals the show.

Round Spring Cave (Nearby)

Take a guided tour into a giant cave system if you're in a spelunking mood.

Alley Mill and Spring (Short Drive)

A classic red mill with another vibrant spring-combine both for a double-spring day.

Unique Stories & Facts

• Native American Reverence: Osage Nation referred to it as "Spring of the Summer Sky" because the water truly glows blue.
• Unfathomable Depth: At over 300 feet deep, it's one of the deepest natural springs in the U.S. a place where divers fear to tread (literally).
• Crazy Clear Water: The clarity is due to deep underground filtration and minimal sediment visibility is often 80+ feet.
• Ghost Trees: Fallen trees appear suspended mid-air in the water, thanks to the insane clarity-nature's optical illusion.

Best Travel Seasons

Popular Activities

• Spring Hike: Do the short but gorgeous trail to the spring overlook easy, shady, and family-friendly.
• Kayak & Canoe Float Trips: Launch upstream and pull over at Blue Spring-some outfitters offer drop-offs and rentals.
• Photography: The blue hue is unreal-perfect for long exposures, nature shots, and profile pic upgrades.
• Birdwatching & Wildlife: Eagles, herons, turtles, and deer are common companions along the spring trail.
• Picnicking: Rustic benches and riverside spots nearby-just bring bug spray and sandwiches.

Famous Buffets Nearby (~20 miles)

• Margie's Place (Eminence, 14 miles): No buffet, but classic country cooking and portions big enough to count.
• The Dairy Shack (Eminence): More grill than buffet, but folks drive hours for the burgers and milkshakes.

Casinos Nearby (~30 miles)

• None in the immediate area but you can gamble on spotting a river otter or catching the perfect spring reflection.

Oddities Nearby (~20 miles)

• Sinkhole Trails: Nearby karst terrain features odd sinkholes and "vanishing streams" that disappear into the ground.
• Current River Fog Bursts: Sudden ground-level fogs form over the water on cool mornings-like the river's brewing secrets.
• Underwater "Hover Trees": Dead logs in the spring look like they're floating in mid-air thanks to clarity and shadow-real-life optical illusion.
• Spring Color Shift: Depending on light, the water can range from deep cobalt to bright teal to eerie glowing aquamarine.

Haunted Tourism Nearby (~20 miles)

• Alley Spring & Mill (20 miles): Local whispers of a miller's ghost who still lingers near the waterwheel.
• Current River Campfire Stories: Tales of glowing eyes, mysterious river voices, and forest whispers best shared with marshmallows.

Local Events & Festivals

• Ozark Heritage Festival (Eminence - Summer): Live music, crafts, food, and storytelling steeped in mountain culture.
• Current River Clean-Up Day: Locals and visitors alike join to keep the river pristine-eco-festival meets civic pride.
• Spring Fever Float (Spring): Informal paddling celebration when the river first warms-expect laughter and maybe a cold dunk.

Lodging Options (Types and Recommendations)

Luxury: Echo Bluff State Park Lodge (20 miles)

Beautiful rooms, a gourmet restaurant, and deck views of the bluffs (from $180/night).

Mid-Range: Shady Lane Cabins (Eminence)

Rustic charm with A/C, porches, and proximity to the river (from $130/night).

Budget: Circle B Campground (Eminence)

Tent and RV sites with access to float outfitters and hiking trails (from $30/night).

Camping: Pulltite Campground

Right along the river, close to the Blue Spring access trail (from $20/night).

Dining (Local Cuisine Highlights)

Dos Rios Mexican Grill (Eminence)

Unexpectedly solid tacos and margaritas in spring country.

Margie's Place

Fried chicken, mashed potatoes, and cobbler served with a side of Southern sass.

The Dairy Shack

A summertime staple burgers, shakes, and fries best enjoyed under a picnic umbrella.

Echo Bluff Restaurant

Upscale lodge fare steak, trout, and Ozark-inspired cuisine.

Travel Tips

• What to Pack: Water shoes, bug spray, sunhat, hiking sandals, camera, waterproof phone bag, and plenty of snacks.
• Safety: Don't swim in the spring-it's tempting but dangerous. Cell service is limited-download maps beforehand.
• Accessibility: Spring Trail is fairly flat and easy to navigate; some spots may require caution after rain.

Nearby Destinations Within 20 Miles

• Round Spring: Another scenic spring and cave system nearby with guided cave tours.
• Alley Spring & Mill: Iconic red mill + vibrant spring = perfect photo op.
• Echo Bluff State Park: Gorgeous trails, bluffs, and a modern lodge tucked into Ozark magic.
• Current River Float Trips: Outfitters abound in Eminence; rent a canoe and go with the flow.

Recommended Duration of Stay

1-2 Days: Enough time to hike, float, picnic, and stare at the water like it holds the meaning of life (spoiler: it might).

Target Travelers

• Nature Photographers: Clarity, color, and composition-every shot is a screen saver.
• Kayakers & Paddlers: Peaceful float with a splash of jaw-dropping beauty.
• Romantic Getaway Seekers: Quiet, dreamy setting perfect for couples with a love for the outdoors.
• Families: Easy hikes, picnic spots, and kid-friendly water stops without being overdeveloped.

Destination Joke

Why don't fish hang out in Blue Spring?

Because it's too clear-they can't bluff about being "just five inches long."

Listen to Our Podcast Episode!

"The Deepest Blue: Why Blue Spring Is Missouri's Most Magical Water" - Explore this natural wonder.