Garrison Springs Community Forest
73 Acres of Preserved Nature
Ozark’s Hidden Peaceful Retreat
Set within the scenic hills of Ozark, Missouri, Garrison Springs Community Forest spans 73 acres of preserved nature, offering visitors serene walking trails, abundant wildlife, and the historic Garrison Spring. This spring, once essential to local settlers and steam engines during the railroad era, holds significant historical value. Today, the forest provides an ideal space for hiking, birdwatching, and learning about local history and conservation efforts.
History
Garrison Springs dates back to the 1800s, when it was used to provide water for early settlers. Later, during the railroad boom, the spring supplied water for steam engines, playing a vital role in the area’s development. Today, it stands as a testament to the community’s history, preserved within the forest. The Garrison Branch is a tributary to the Finley River, joining the river near the historic Ozark Mill. The stream is fed by 3 springs on the property, which are part of an extensive cave system, the 7th longest known cave system in the state of Missouri.
Park Features
- Walking Trails: Explore peaceful trails suitable for all skill levels.
- Garrison Spring: Visit the historic spring that once supplied water to settlers and powered steam engines during the early railroad era.
- Native Flora and Fauna: Discover diverse plant and wildlife in this preserved forest. Garrison Springs is a bird-watching haven, attracting species such as warblers, hummingbirds, and raptors year-round. Its forested landscape and water features make it ideal for spotting a variety of birds, including seasonal favorites like Indigo Buntings and Ruby-throated Hummingbirds.
Visitor Tips
- Open year-round, great for hiking and nature education.
- Follow Leave No Trace principles to protect the environment.
Whether you’re exploring nature or learning about local history, Garrison Springs Community Forest offers a tranquil and enriching experience for all.
For more details, visit: Garrison Springs Community Forest.
Park Features
- Walking Trails: Explore peaceful trails suitable for all skill levels.
- Garrison Spring: Visit the historic spring that once supplied water to settlers and powered steam engines during the early railroad era.
- Native Flora and Fauna: Discover diverse plant and wildlife in this preserved forest. Garrison Springs is a bird-watching haven, attracting species such as warblers, hummingbirds, and raptors year-round. Its forested landscape and water features make it ideal for spotting a variety of birds, including seasonal favorites like Indigo Buntings and Ruby-throated Hummingbirds.
Visitor Tips
- Open year-round, great for hiking and nature education.
- Follow Leave No Trace principles to protect the environment.
Whether you’re exploring nature or learning about local history, Garrison Springs Community Forest offers a tranquil and enriching experience for all.
For more details, visit: Garrison Springs Community Forest.
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