Things To Do

Boat Rentals

Canoes and Kayaks are available to rent at the Lake Springfield Boathouse April 15 - October 15. Rented boats must be returned each day one hour prior to boathouse closing, no rentals after 4 p.m. The facility offers 17-foot canoes and single and tandem kayaks. Fees are $12/hour or $36/four hours for single kayaks and $15/hour or $45/four hours for tandem kayaks and canoes and include life jackets and paddles.

Paddlers will use the James River Water Trail as the trail route, which runs approximately 4.5-miles one way, along Lake Springfield and the James River passing Springfield Conservation Nature Center, Galloway Creek and Creighton Access. Renters must be 18 years of age, with minors accompanied by an adult.

Fishing

Fish Lake Springfield for largemouth bass, channel catfish, crappie, bluegill and carp, during park hours. The Missouri Department of Conservation also provides fishing access outside of the park, on the south side of the lake.

Hilltop Pavilion (Picnic Shelter & Playground)

The pavilion is located centrally in the park, with a beautiful view of the lake. The shelter may not be reserved.

The Northwoods Pavilion

Contact Lake Springfield Boathouse at 417-891-1550 to schedule your family picnic, reunion, or special event at the secluded and beautifully shaded Northwoods Pavilion. You can rent the Northwoods Pavilion for $50/four hours or $100/eight hours.

Wildlife

Abundant wildlife includes deer, turkey and waterfowl. Look for eagles in winter months.

Surrounding Trails

Lake Springfield Park Trail

A 1.4-mile wood chip trail beginning near the boat launch, with quarter-mile trail markers. Follows a portion of the Greater Ozark Audubon Trail, then branches off through the wood to the Northwoods Pavilion before passing through prairie and connecting with the James River Greenway Trail. Built in partnership with Volunteers for Outdoor Missouri. View trail map [PDF].

James River Greenway Trail

Paved 1.74-mile trail spanning the park, with trailheads at Kissick Road, Lake Springfield Boathouse and the boat launch. Accessible parking at the Boathouse. Several fishing areas along the trail. For more information and a trail map visit OzarkGreenways.org.

Greater Ozarks Audubon Trail

Rugged wood chip trail loop running along the bluffs overlooking Lake Springfield. Great views at Eagle Point. Trail includes a glade restoration project. This trail is a collaboration between the Missouri Department of Conservation, the Greater Ozarks Audubon Society, Volunteers for Outdoors Missouri and the Springfield-Greene County Park Board. Trailhead near the boat launch.