The Big Spring Lodge and Cabins are a beloved feature of the Big Spring area and are a popular destination for visitors to Ozark National Scenic Riverways. They have been operated by private concessioners under contract with the National Park Service (NPS) as an essential visitor service for many years.
This project will rehabilitate historic structures within the Big Spring Historic District, including the park’s dining lodge, cabins, and former museum building. The work includes:
- interior and exterior renovation of all structures, including removal of non-historic finishes;
- repair or replacement of mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems throughout;
- installation of fire suppression systems;
- restoration of site features, retaining walls, trails, foot bridges, walkways, steps, and overlooks;
- landscape rehabilitation including water drainage issues and replanting native and historic vegetation;
- replacement of Big Spring boat dock using materials compatible with the historic district and installing an accessible route to connect it to the lodge; and
- modification of the interior and exterior of one cabin to meet the accessibility standards of the Architectural Barriers Act (ABA).
The project site, including the grounds immediately surrounding the lodge and cabins, is expected to be closed for the duration of the project. Hiking trail segments that pass through the construction area may be temporarily closed as necessary. Big Spring itself, the campground, pavilions, boat ramp, and most of the nearby hiking trails will remain open as usual throughout the course of this project.
