The State of Missouri acquired the land in 1978. When the area was converted into a state park, the Missouri Division of State Parks put spaces in the name. For this reason, the spring and the park have different punctuations in their names. The state has done a truly excellent job of turning this area into a park. Many consider Ha Ha Tonka to be the best of all the Missouri State Parks.
Boardwalks allow visitors to hike down into several of the sinkholes.
These boardwalks are marvels themselves. Some of the trails and boardwalks traverse slopes with high gradients and consist of hundreds of steps. There are several different routes to the spring area and the out of shape and unhealthy should consider using a less scenic but flatter route. A stop by the park information center is highly suggested for those visiting for the first time. Trail maps are available and interesting pictures of the park s features are shown.