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Ha Ha Tonka State Park

Located on the Niangua arm of the Lake of the Ozarks, Ha Ha Tonka State Park is a destination that perfectly blends architecture, history, and breathtaking scenery. The park is filled with natural geologic formations and offers plenty of space over 3,700 acres to enjoy the outdoors.

We've put together this short guide to highlight some of the most popular attractions at Ha Ha Tonka State Park.

Ha Ha Tonka Castle

Arguably the most well known attraction in the park, the ruins of the Ha Ha Tonka Castle sit on a bluff overlooking the park, providing some of the best views in the area. While the location might seem wonderful, the history behind the castle is tragic.

The castle was the dream of a wealthy businessman who hired European stone masons to construct his mansion in the style of European castles. Unfortunately, the man died before he could see it completed. His sons finished the home but eventually were forced to move due to financial hardship. The castle was then used as a hotel and lodge before it was destroyed in a fire.

While you are visiting Ha Ha Tonka Castle, you can also admire the Ha Ha Tonka Natural Bridge, a massive geological formation that serves as the primary entrance to the castle grounds.

Ha Ha Tonka Spring

This spring serves as the namesake of the park. In the native Osage Indian language, Ha Ha Tonka means "laughing water".

Ha Ha Tonka Springs is the 12th largest spring in the state of Missouri, discharging more than 48 million gallons of water per day. The waters are crystal blue and collect in the Trout Glenn Pool before moving to the Lake of the Ozarks.

The Spring Trail boardwalk runs nearby on the south side of the spring, making for a wonderful stroll through the park.

Note that both fishing and swimming are prohibited in the spring and the millpond.

Ha Ha Tonka State Park Trails

Ha Ha Tonka State Park draws in hikers from all over to the variety of trails found here. Fourteen trails crisscross the park, each well marked. The conditions of each trail vary, ranging from paved paths to boardwalks to natural trails. The most popular is the 316-step wooden staircase that leads to the Ha Ha Tonka Castle ruins.

You can find a full list of trails as well as maps and information about them on the Missouri State Parks website

Lake of the Ozarks State Park

Spanning over 17,000 acres, Lake of the Ozarks State Park is not just the largest state park in Missouri—it is the crown jewel of the region's natural beauty. While the Lake is famous for its vibrant nightlife and boating scene, the State Park offers a peaceful, untouched sanctuary where the Ozark hills meet the water.
Whether you're looking to hike through ancient woodlands, explore hidden caverns, or spend a quiet afternoon on a sandy beach, this park is a "must-visit" on your Lake of the Ozarks itinerary.

Highlights & Can't-Miss Activities

Explore the Underground at Ozark CavernsOne of the park's most unique features lies beneath the surface. Ozark Caverns offers a fascinating look at the "karst" topography of Missouri. Unlike many commercial caves, this is a "living" cave where geologic processes are still active.
The Angel Showers: Don't miss this rare phenomenon where water seemingly falls from a solid rock ceiling into two massive stone basins.
Cave Life: Keep an eye out for blind grotto salamanders and various species of bats that call this cool environment home.

Beaches & Boating

The park boasts 89 miles of shoreline, providing plenty of room to find your own private cove. Public Beaches: There are two beautiful sandy beaches (Public Beach #1 and Grand Glaize Beach) perfect for a family picnic and a day of swimming. Both offer shaded picnic sites and playground areas nearby.
The Aquatic Trail: Truly unique to this park, the Aquatic Trail is a self-guided "trail" for boaters. Marked by buoys, it highlights 14 different shoreline features, from natural rock bridges to unique ecosystems.
For those staying at Point Randall, you already know the fishing is world-class. Within the State Park boundaries, you'll find some of the quietest and most productive fishing spots on the lake.
The "Quiet" Coves: Because much of the park's shoreline is undeveloped, these coves offer a serene environment to hunt for large-mouth bass, crappie, and catfish without the heavy wake of the main channel.

Relax at Point Randall Resort

Point Randall is the premier resort on the Lake of the Ozarks. Not only do we offer a wide range of quality lodging but also boat rentals to help you have fun out on the water

Browse our accommodations and book today!