Montauk State Park protects the actual headwaters of the famed Current River, where the park's own springs combine with tiny Pigeon Creek to supply more than 40 million gallons of cold, clear water to the river every single day. That consistent, frigid spring flow creates ideal conditions for rainbow trout, making Montauk one of Missouri's premier trout fishing destinations and a consistent draw for anglers throughout the year. A historic gristmill, built in 1896, still stands within the park and offers tours that give visitors a genuine glimpse into the working economy of the 19th-century Ozark region, when water-powered mills like this one processed grain for surrounding farming communities. Montauk Mill Days, an annual celebration held each spring, brings the mill's history to life with demonstrations and community programming built around the historic structure. Beyond fishing and the mill, three trails give hikers and bicyclists an easy way to explore the park's shady green surroundings, while picnic areas and two picnic shelters host everything from quiet lunches to full family reunions. A modern campground, rental cabins, motel rooms, and a full dining lodge give visitors a genuinely complete range of overnight and dining options, making Montauk a popular multi-day destination for anglers specifically drawn to its reliable, spring-fed trout water.