The smell of fresh coffee, the heat of the barrel fires, the sound of water rushing over the baffles and the sight of hundreds of wriggling trout waiting to be caught, filleted, battered and fried.

There’s a heaven for every sense on Opening Day at Roaring River State Park, our own little slice of heaven here in the Ozarks.

More than 2 million people visit Roaring River every year, the state’s most-visited park for three years running, and we welcome each and every one of you.

With that level of tourism comes a responsibility. From the hospitality of the park’s concessionnaire and all the surrounding resorts and retreats to the safety-driven, life-saving abilities of park staff and park rangers — our hearts swell with pride whenever Roaring River is mentioned.

The generational staying power of camping, fishing, hiking and more at Roaring River is something we enjoy and respect. It brings all types of people to our backyard, and we love to share it.

While at the park this year, I also encourage you to take a drive north. Load up the family and play some mini golf at Zone 4, a new attraction open March 1 featuring the longest mini golf hole in the world. If for some reason you’ve had your fill of trout, go a bit further north and get a steak at The Rib, which recently reopened under new ownership.

You can also advantage of the many antique shops and flea markets in our area, or leave the kids at the campsite and head to the new H&H Pool Hall for some of-age fun.

As the number of visitors has grown over the years, Cassville is growing right along with it. 

Whatever you enjoy most, we hope you find it right here in Barry County — and we’ll see you again next year!