Ha Ha Tonka State Park - map and other informations

Description

Ha Ha Tonka State Park is a beautiful and historic park located in Camdenton, Missouri. Established in 1978, the park covers over 3,700 acres of stunning natural beauty and offers a wide range of activities for visitors to enjoy.

History

The park gets its name from the Osage Indian phrase "Ha Ha Tonka," which means "laughing waters." The area was once home to a large spring that created a unique geological formation known as the "Sinking Creek Karst Area." This karst landscape features sinkholes, caves, and underground streams.

In the early 20th century, a wealthy businessman named Robert McClure Snyder Sr. purchased the land and built a grand castle-like mansion on top of one of the bluffs overlooking the lake. Unfortunately, the mansion was destroyed by fire in 1942, but its ruins still remain and are now one of the park's main attractions.

Things to Do

Ha Ha Tonka State Park offers something for everyone. Whether you're interested in hiking, boating, fishing, or simply enjoying nature, this park has it all.

Hiking

The park features several well-maintained hiking trails that wind through forests, along cliffs, and around the lake. One of the most popular trails is the Castle Trail, which takes you past the ruins of Snyder's mansion and offers breathtaking views of Lake of the Ozarks.

Boating and Fishing

Lake of the Ozarks is known for its excellent boating and fishing opportunities. Visitors can rent boats or bring their own to explore the lake's many coves and channels. The lake is home to a variety of fish species including bass, crappie, catfish, and more.

Camping

Ha Ha Tonka State Park offers both basic and electric campsites for overnight stays. The campground is located near the lake and provides easy access to hiking trails, fishing spots, and other recreational activities.

Picnicking

The park has several picnic areas with tables and grills, making it a great place to enjoy a meal with family or friends. Some picnic areas even offer scenic views of the lake or castle ruins.

Other Attractions

In addition to its natural beauty, Ha Ha Tonka State Park also features several other attractions worth exploring:

The Castle Ruins

The remains of Robert Snyder's mansion are a must-see when visiting the park. The stone walls and archways provide a glimpse into the past and offer stunning photo opportunities.

The Natural Bridge

This natural rock bridge spans 60 feet across a ravine and is an impressive sight to behold. Visitors can walk across the bridge and take in the surrounding scenery.

The Devil's Kitchen

This unique geological feature is a collapsed cave that forms a sinkhole. It's an interesting spot to explore and learn about the park's karst landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Ha Ha Tonka State Park

Is there an entrance fee for Ha Ha Tonka State Park?

Yes, there is an entrance fee for Ha Ha Tonka State Park. As of 2021, the fee is $4 per vehicle for Missouri residents and $8 per vehicle for non-residents. The fee is collected at the park's entrance and helps support the maintenance and preservation of the park.

Are pets allowed in Ha Ha Tonka State Park?

Yes, pets are allowed in Ha Ha Tonka State Park. However, they must be kept on a leash no longer than 10 feet at all times. Pet owners are also responsible for cleaning up after their pets to help keep the park clean and enjoyable for everyone.

Is swimming allowed in Lake of the Ozarks at Ha Ha Tonka State Park?

Swimming is allowed in Lake of the Ozarks at Ha Ha Tonka State Park. There is a designated swimming beach area where visitors can enjoy a refreshing swim during the summer months. Lifeguards are not provided, so swimmers should exercise caution and follow any posted safety guidelines.

	Temp max	Temp min	Rain	Snow
Jan	7 °C 45 °F	-2 °C 28 °F	44 mm 1.7 in	8 mm 0.3 in
Feb	8 °C 46 °F	-2 °C 28 °F	45 mm 1.8 in	11 mm 0.4 in
Mar	15 °C 59 °F	4 °C 39 °F	102 mm 4.0 in	4 mm 0.2 in
Apr	20 °C 68 °F	9 °C 48 °F	119 mm 4.7 in	1 mm 0.0 in
May	24 °C 75 °F	15 °C 59 °F	137 mm 5.4 in	1 mm 0.0 in
Jun	30 °C 86 °F	20 °C 68 °F	92 mm 3.6 in	0 mm 0.0 in
Jul	32 °C 90 °F	22 °C 72 °F	88 mm 3.5 in	0 mm 0.0 in
Aug	30 °C 86 °F	21 °C 70 °F	97 mm 3.8 in	0 mm 0.0 in
Sep	28 °C 82 °F	18 °C 64 °F	64 mm 2.5 in	0 mm 0.0 in
Oct	21 °C 70 °F	11 °C 52 °F	104 mm 4.1 in	0 mm 0.0 in
Nov	13 °C 55 °F	5 °C 41 °F	61 mm 2.4 in	2 mm 0.1 in
Dec	9 °C 48 °F	1 °C 34 °F	54 mm 2.1 in	4 mm 0.2 in