Explore Scenic springs for warmer weather escapes across Missouri.

It’s good to be home for the holidays – especially when home is in Missouri, where cozy small towns sparkle with charm and bustling cities hum with festive energy. Across the Show-Me State, winter transforms every corner into a celebration of tradition, warmth, and holiday magic. But there’s one place in particular that takes decking the halls to a new level. Nestled in the Ozark Mountains, Branson transforms into a winter wonderland, with guests flocking to see beautiful decorations, enjoy cozy stays, and immerse themselves in the joy of the season.

Big Spring

Touting a daily flow of around 280 million gallons of water, Big Spring, located near Van Buren, Missouri, in the Ozark National Scenic Riverways, lives up to its name as one of the three largest springs in the country. The cool water feeds into the Current River, home to many fish and the Ozark Hellbender, a large aquatic salamander that breathes entirely through its skin. Despite their name, Hellbenders are more scarce than they are scary. As such, this endangered species is a special sight when viewed through the clear waters.

The 1.2-mile Big Spring Slough Trail features a scenic overlook of the river and is a great place to see otters, ducks, and muskrats. One can also see the millpond, which is teeming with turtles and frogs and frequently hosts resourceful green herons as well. Hoping to stay a while? The Landing in Van Buren, Missouri, offers dozens of riverfront lodge rooms and canoe, kayak, raft, and tube rentals. It prides itself as a destination to “eat, sleep, and float” in the Ozarks.

Alley Springs

Silver Dollar City’s holiday extravaganza, An Old Time Christmas, has been recognized as one of the best theme park events in the country. Starting in early November, the park is illuminated by more than 6 million twinkling lights and over 1,000 decorated trees. But the fun doesn’t stop there. A light parade, led by Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, takes place twice daily, and the restaurants and concession stands serve up mouth-watering seasonal treats. Guests can catch a Broadway-style show, like “A Dickens’ Christmas Carol,” for a fun and heartfelt reminder of the joy of the season.

For a lively experience, head to the Silver Dollar Saloon for a wild west holiday show that features singing and plenty of opportunities for guests to join in the fun. To see the wonder on display throughout the entire park, hop aboard the Frisco Sing-Along Steam Train.

Ha Ha Tonka

Ha Ha Tonka Spring, whose name means “laughing waters,” is the state’s 12th-largest spring, and it also stands out because of the castle ruins it shares a park with. Located near Camdenton, Missouri, the site offers beautiful hikes through nature. The 1.4-mile Spring Trail starts at the edge of the Lake of the Ozarks and winds along tall bluffs to the spring. The state park offers unforgettable views and ample trails for hikers to enjoy the changing seasons.

The park is notable for its iconic castle ruins, sweeping views of trees and water, and natural formations. There are picnic spaces, fishing opportunities, kayak rentals, and more to enjoy on a day out after a long, chilly winter. And since the park is near Lake of the Ozarks, don’t miss out on the eclectic Bagnell Dam strip and other local attractions.

Roaring River Spring

Located inside Roaring River State Park, Roaring River Spring is an experience with some depth; in fact, it’s not actually clear how deep the spring goes. At more than 470 feet and counting, it’s considered the deepest spring in the country. The park is one of three state trout parks stocked by the Missouri Department of Conservation, and a lunker-sized catch is just waiting to be reeled in. There are rugged hiking trails and a nature center, plus a campground, rustic cabins, and nearby lodging like the Emory Melton Inn and Conference Center, which boasts its own full-service restaurant.

A trip to see Missouri’s freshwater springs is a perfect chance to get away. The state’s natural beauty shines in the springtime, just like the sparkling water.