Best Trails in Ha Ha Tonka State Park

From dark caves to backcountry hiking trails to castle ruins perched on a cliff, Ha Ha Tonka State Park is the ideal place for the adventurous. Ha Ha Tonka is a geological wonderland: sinkholes, caves, a huge natural bridge, soaring bluffs, and Missouri's 12th largest spring. More than 15 miles of trail traverse the park, leading visitors to spectacular scenery, natural wonders and the famous castle ruins. Accessible, paved walkways and rugged, rocky trails provide every hiking experience, from a casual boardwalk stroll to an overnight backpack trip. Looming over all is the ruin of the turn-of-the-century stone castle built by a wealthy businessman. The empty shell of this great mansion overlooks Ha Ha Tonka Spring and Lake of the Ozarks from atop a 250-foot bluff. The Ha Ha Tonka Woodland preserves an excellent example of presettlement landscape. Scattered oaks, prairie grasses and wildflowers, open rocky glades and valley woodlands form a woodland mosaic. A seven-mile backpack trail winds through much of this area so visitors can easily explore the woodland. Rugged terrain, beautiful bluffs, dark caves and a castle on a cliff -- bring your camera because Ha Ha Tonka State Park has it all.