Echo Bluff MO's newest State park

[concord_05]

Missouri's newest state park Echo Bluff, had its ribbon cutting today. My husband and I drove over to check it out. It's located in S central MO north of Eminence and South of Salem MO. It is off of MO highway 19. This highway is well maintained but it is a 2 lane road and and is very curvy and I mean VERY curvy. This is in the Ozark Mountains so it is also up and down numerous steep hills. That being said it is a beautiful drive any time of he year but in the Fall it is spectacular. They have a new campground with concrete back in sites. Some full hookups and some just W and E. No shade tress except around the outside edge of the CG. Large new bathrooms. Sinking Creek winds through the park which is crystal clear and fairly shallow but with deep areas for swimming. Large day use area is separated from the CG. It is just a short kayak float to where Sinking Creek meets with the Current River which is part of the Ozark National Scenic Riverways. Numerous hiking and some bike trails. Didn't see the tent camping area but they are suppose to be very private. There is also a new lodge with 20 rooms, meeting area and restaurant. Several cabins for rent, some that will sleep 10-12 people. MO State Parks do not charge an entrance fee. I think the camping fee is under $30 but don't know exact price. Eminence MO is known for its huge trail rides. Coming home we passed numerous horse trailers.

[welove2drive]

Thanks for the nice report.
Fellow readers, If you haven't floated the Current don't let the name scare you. I think it is rated Class I or II. There is enough current that you only need to steer your kayak. There are usually a few hazards to challenge you along the way. I'm sure there is more flow in the spring and after rain. Concord 05, yes we avoid Saturday too. We would rather float and be able to enjoy the wild life. One year we saw a river otter, king fishers and some mink.
Marcia

[Iraqvet05]

I may have to put that place on a list for a future visit. The visitors center looks a bit like the one at Johnson's Shut Inns.

[concord_05]

IIt is about 30 miles South of Salem, MO. It is only a couple of miles North of Round Springs CG part of the Ozark National Scenic Riverways which you should find easily on a map. The Current River is a beautiful clear gravel bottom River that is a floaters paradise. One that I will avoid on a Saturday in the summer,(lots of party floaters) but can be almost deserted on a weekday.

[Mmwtdh]

The press releases look like the lodge and amenities are top notch...

[Limit4]

Thanks for the report. About how far south of Salem is the park.