Bennett Spring State Park is one of the BUSIEST state parks in Missouri. Getting a camping spot in the summer involves months ahead of planning. Fortunately for us, we neither fish nor swim at lakes and rivers so camping during the least busy time of the year works great for us. Like previously mentioned, there is hardly anyone in the campground and the trails are usually empty. No unleashed dogs, no hiker with music on speaker....
Anywho... we left around 1:00 pm I mostly napped during the drive, I had asked Kevin to set up a nap spot for me and Georgia. Our couches turns into a sleeper even with the slides pulled in.
The Park
Visitors have been drawn to Bennett Spring and its valley since the mid-19th century. Settlers recognized the potential of the spring-fed streams, establishing grist and flour mills amidst the untamed wilderness, ideal for hunting. James Brice, an early settler, erected the first mill in 1846. Over time, other mills emerged, but it was Peter Bennett, Brice's son-in-law, who operated the most prosperous mill. The spring took on Bennett's name, and the valley surrounding it became a favored camping and hunting spot for farmers awaiting their grain milling.
The area's allure grew in 1900 when the Missouri Fish Commissioner introduced 40,000 mountain trout into the stream, captivating fishermen and enhancing its popularity. In 1924-1925, the state took a significant step by purchasing the spring and part of its environs, laying the groundwork for one of the earliest state parks. During the 1930s, the Civilian Conservation Corps left an indelible mark, shaping the park's present identity. Their efforts brought about cabins, trails, roads, the iconic arched bridge spanning the spring branch, and the rustic dining lodge, enriching the park's amenities and charm.
The Campground
Bennett Spring Campground has five campgrounds nestled all across the park to cater to individual preferences from basic setups; to sites equipped with sewer, electric, and water facilities. The park also offer family sites for those who want more expansive sites. Missouri State Parks now allow reservations up to 12 months in advance which I highly recommend because sites fill up FAST! During winter only Campground 1 is available for campers use.
Check out this cool stamp that I saw on all of the campsites in Campground 1
Thank goodness there was still daylight when we get there because even if it is easy to set up the RV, finding your way in the dark campground can still be a chore. We arrived at our campground around 4:00pm. Our campground is on Campground 1 Site 129 which is a full hook up site but since it is winterized the spigots are winterized. We are staying for 2 nights.
We had to dewinterize when we got to the campground but one of the perks of camping in the winter is that we can do that in filling station and no one would be waiting for us to get wrapped up with filling up. Being our second time to dewinterize our RV it didn't take as much time as our first time. If you have not read about it, you can check it out here: Ultimate Guide to Thanksgiving Camping in Roaring River State Park.
We were parked closed to the bathroom which is available even in winter. It was clean and heated which worked well for one of the campers who were tent camping and also Kevin who still refuses to #2 in the RV. It had 2 separate areas for showers and bathrooms.
It rained the first night we were there which was fine with us because we do not do fires when we camp nor do we sit outside. We like to chill inside and watch movies and disconnect while we camp. Besides we would have plenty of "outside" time tomorrow when we hit the trails.
Natural Tunnel Trail
Our campground was about a mile and half to the trailhead but no complaint's from us because we get to see sights along the way like this awesome stream. Of course we took it as a photo opportunity which Georgia took as a delay of adventure.
On our walk we also saw the Shelter House and Water Gauge Station which are unique structures worth checking out. The picnic shelter blends wood and random ashlar stone, featuring a cozy alcove with a stone fireplace—perfect for some outdoor gatherings and toasting marshmallows. Meanwhile, the water gauge station stands as a petite two-story tower made of random cut stone. It's a compact 8 feet by 8 feet with a pyramidal roof and round-arched windows. Overall, it measures 26 feet by 26 feet, topped off with a pitched cross-gabled roof, adding to its distinctive look.
Being that we were camping around Christmas we had a kick out of seeing the some fishing enthusiast with their Christmas hats.
Finally the trail head!
Along the way to the tunnel, you'll journey through Spring Hollow, traversing a variety of habitats—think lowland and highland forests, towering bluffs, sunny clearings, babbling streams big and small, and even old farm fields. Of course there are random caves all along the trail that Kevin and Georgia felt necessary to check out.
The trail's standout attraction is the Bennett Spring Natural Tunnel, a 296-foot-long path that curves through the hill in a snaking S shape.
Of course we had to go through the cave, and it was pitch black in there. Carved from Gasconade dolomite, this tunnel boasts a sizable gravel creek bed within.
There wasn't much to see once you get to the other side of the cave but it was still worth the walk
The trail overall was well marked and not a lot of elevation. Georgia appreciated the adventure for sure. As an extra precaution we had bought her a safety vest in orange because it is hunting season. We doubt that there would be hunters in the state park but better safe than sorry.
It took us about 4.5 hours total time and 11.37 miles total distance. It was very peaceful and there was no one in the trail which we enjoyed a lot.
After all that it started to drizzle so what are we to do? Since sitting outside is not our thing it didn't bother us at all. We just opted to stay inside, be cozy and watched Harry Potter which had been our Christmas Tradition.
Bridge Trail
Day 3 is the Bridge Trail, originally named for the charming bridge that spanned a ravine, the Bridge Trail lost its iconic bridge in 2000. We walked to the trail again and again another photo opportunity, we truly appreciate the beauty of the park... but Georgia as you can see in this picture sees this as inconvenience.
The trail still winds through a predominantly upland deciduous forest, adorned with a lush canopy of oak and hickory trees. Starting its journey alongside the Oak Hickory Trail from the nature center, Bridge Trail initially shares its path, gently ascending and tracing the hillside towards the east. Upon reaching the hilltop, it diverges from the Oak Hickory Trail, veering upslope and around the ravine. As it gradually curves northward, the trail leads to a gentle descent, meeting the Whistle Trail. Here, hikers face a choice: left to complete the remainder of Bridge Trail or right to continue along Whistle Trail.
Historically, much of Bridge Trail's path likely predates recorded history but saw more frequent use from the 1840s onward by local inhabitants. In the early 1970s, a team of Green Thumb workers improved the trail as part of the nature center's development, including the construction of an amphitheater near the trailhead. Sadly, the bridge was dismantled due to rotting support timbers and pest infestation. However, annual reviews consider plans for its potential reconstruction. Over the years, segments of the trail have been rerouted and enhanced to offer smoother gradients and steer clear of erosion.
Personally I think the trail is lovely as it is. It meanders through the river and you get glimpses of anglers when we were there early morning which was an awesome sight.
In total the entire hike was about 2.7 miles and took us about 1.5 hours. Being that we hiked a really long time we were not looking to do a really long hike, also given that we are packing up that day it was all that we can handle.
There are a couple of pointers that I would like to leave you with:
Tips for Visitors:
Pack Accordingly: Bring hiking gear, comfortable shoes. Dress in layers. Weathers can turn really quickly so it is best to prepare for the worse. You can always remove the layers when you get warm.
Respect Nature: Leave no trace and preserve the beauty of the park by following guidelines and respecting wildlife. Sometimes the trail can be covered by leaves specially during winter but a lot of the trails are marked so stay on the trails so wildlife and fauna does not get disturbed.
Check Seasonal Activities: The park hosts various events and programs throughout the year, so it's worth checking the schedule for any special activities during your visit.
A couple of points regarding winter hiking and camping with your dogs:
Check the Weather: Make sure you're aware of the forecast. Pack accordingly with warm, waterproof gear for both you and your dog.
Insulate Sleeping Areas: Get cozy sleeping pads or elevated beds for your pup to keep them off the cold ground. Consider bringing extra blankets or a sleeping bag specifically for your furry companion.
Doggie Wardrobe: Outfit your dog with a snug, weather-appropriate coat to keep them warm. Booties can protect their paws from snow, ice, and salt.
Hydration and Food: Ensure your dog has access to plenty of water and food. Consider using an insulated water bowl to prevent freezing. Pack extra food in case you get snowed in or have unexpected delays.
Leash and ID: Keep your dog on a leash, especially in unfamiliar areas, and make sure they're wearing a collar with up-to-date ID tags.
Doggy First Aid Kit: Have a first aid kit specifically for your dog that includes items like paw balm, tweezers for removing ticks, and any medications they might need.
Safety and Supervision: Keep a close eye on your furry buddy, especially around frozen water bodies or wildlife. Be mindful of potential hazards like frozen lakes or wild animals that might be more active in the winter.
Training and Comfort: Ensure your dog is comfortable with cold weather camping. Some breeds handle cold better than others, so know your dog's limits. If it's their first time camping in the winter, consider a trial run in the backyard to gauge their comfort level.
Warmth at Night: Snuggle up! Your dog's body heat can be a great source of warmth in the tent. Just make sure they're comfortable and not too hot or cold.
Check for Signs of Cold: Watch out for signs of hypothermia or frostbite in your dog, such as shivering, lethargy, or pale skin. If you notice any concerning symptoms, seek warmth and consider contacting a vet.
Safety Vests During Hunting Season. We got Georgia an orange vest as a precaution to warn hunters that she is a pet instead of a deer.
And that my friends is our Best Trails and Camping Tips at Bennett Spring State Park. Enjoy winter my friends after all it is about half the year, might as well find what you can love out of it!
TTYL!
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