This state park at the top of a bluff features evocative castle ruins, as well as caves, a natural bridge, sinkholes and a scenic lake.
Positioned on what was once a striking clifftop estate, Ha Ha Tonka State Park is packed with fascinating geological features including a natural bridge and caves adorned with stalagmites and stalactites. Follow trails and boardwalks that lead through the park showing off its scenic natural beauty as well as eye-catching castle ruins.
Ha Ha Tonka has a fascinating backstory. The site was originally purchased in 1904 by wealthy businessman Robert Snyder, who set about building a European-style castle on the bluff. Alas, just two years into its construction, Snyder was killed in a car accident. His family continued to fund construction of the castle, which was completed in 1922. Come to the park today to see what remains of the once majestic castle, which was left to fall to ruins following a devastating fire.
From the 250-foot(76-meter) bluff upon which the castle stands, gaze down upon the man-made Lake of the Ozarks. Boaters can access the park from a dock near the castle ruins. Fishing is permitted in the lake, providing you have the appropriate permits, although it is forbidden in Ha Ha Tonka Spring.
For a close-up view of the spring, follow the boardwalk trail steps from the bluff to Ha Ha Tonka Spring. The spring is the 12th biggest in Missouri and releases about 48 million gallons (182 million liters) of water every day.
Put on your hiking boots and set off along one of the park’s 14 trails. The paths lead past sinkholes and unusual rock formations, including an eye-catching natural bridge. Admire the rugged surrounding terrain as you trek. Trails range in length from the very short, at about 0.25 miles (0.5 kilometers) to the more challenging 6.5-mile-long (10-kilometer) Turkey Pen Hollow Trail, which leads through the Ha Ha Tonka Oak Woodland Natural Area.
Find Ha Ha Tonka State Park near Camdenton in Southern Missouri. The park and visitor center are open daily, with the park gates closing at sunset. Check weather in advance of visiting during winter, this region can experience snow.
