Mammoth Spring State Park
Mammoth Spring, AR
One of the largest springs in the country pours out of the ground into a calm lake beside an old railroad depot. A short flat path circles the water, and the stop works well as a picnic break on the Missouri border.
The spring in Mammoth Spring State Park discharges about 9 million US gallons per hour (roughly 34,000 cubic meters) and is among the largest springs in the world. It has been a National Natural Landmark since June 1972. A dam built in 1887 impounds it as Spring Lake; it first powered a mill, and a hydroelectric plant generated electricity until 1972. The 62.5-acre (about 25-hectare) park was approved as a state park in 1957, though the first land was not acquired until 1966.
Beside the lake stands the Frisco railroad depot, built in 1886 and now a museum; there is also an Arkansas Welcome Center. You can stroll along the water, picnic and, in season, rent pedal boats. One to two hours is enough for a stop.
- Nearest town
- Mammoth Spring, AR
- Category
- Nature & parks
- GPS
- 36.4992, -91.5352
Hours, fees and access change. Confirm with the operator or park before you go.
Good to know
Best time to go
The most pleasant months are usually April–May and October. Still fine, with some compromises, in June, September and November. Hot in July–August. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)
Sources
Nearby
Campsites nearby
- Motorhome stopoverMotorhome stopover13 mi from Mammoth Spring State ParkMotorhomes
- Greenbrier Float CampCampsite23 mi from Mammoth Spring State Park
- Greer Springs CampgroundCampsite23 mi from Mammoth Spring State Park
- Barn Hollow Float CampCampsite24 mi from Mammoth Spring State Park
- Horseshoe Float CampCampsite24 mi from Mammoth Spring State Park
- White Creek Float CampCampsite24 mi from Mammoth Spring State Park
All campsites in Arkansas · Campsite data: © OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL 1.0 · Updated October 3, 2026
FAQs
Where is Mammoth Spring State Park?
Mammoth Spring State Park is in Mammoth Spring, AR, at GPS 36.4992, -91.5352. It is about 45 mi from Van Buren.
Can you camp near Mammoth Spring State Park?
Yes. The nearest campsite listed in OpenStreetMap is Greenbrier Float Camp, about 23 mi away; within 25 mi there are 6 campsites and motorhome stopovers.
What is there to see near Mammoth Spring State Park?
Places worth a stop nearby: Big Spring (43 mi), Rocky Falls (45 mi), Alley Spring and Mill (46 mi) and Blanchard Springs Caverns (51 mi).
When is the best time to visit Mammoth Spring State Park?
The most pleasant months are usually April–May and October. Still fine, with some compromises, in June, September and November. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)