Bryant Creek is the county's signature Ozark float and fishing stream

Bryant Creek is a clear stream that runs through Douglas County. It is fed by springs, which means cold water flows out of the ground to keep it going. People come from around the area to fish here and to float the creek in the Ozark hills.

If you want to go, two things matter most: where you can get on the water, and what the rules are. The Missouri Department of Conservation (the state’s wildlife and fishing office, called MDC) sets the fishing rules and keeps up the spots where you reach the creek. A state park along the creek also gives you public land for day use.

A spring-fed creek is not a steady river. The water can rise fast after rain and get low in dry spells. So check the water level close to your trip instead of guessing.

Before you head out, check the access spots, the fishing rules, and your put-in and take-out points with MDC and Missouri State Parks. Do not just go by what you hear.