Bollinger Mill State Historic Site — Attraction in Jackson

My family had visited there many years ago, probably in the 1980s, it seems its being worked on constantly. Every time ive looked it up, even a few years ago, it said it was under restoration or repairs or something and it has been closed for years now it seems? Are they ever going to open it up as they do at Spring Mill St.Pk and operate it to show how it works? I guess its hard to find spare knowledgeable old fashioned water powered grist mill operators around much these days. I know they also have operating mills over at Bridgeton, IN and Mansfield, IN in Parke Co., where the covered bridge festival is. Those aren't as old i dont think as the one here, but Spring Mill goes way back to early 1800s. There us another grist mill called Pratters Mill, i think its down in Tennessee, but it reminds me of Bollingers a little. They have a big arts and crafts festival associated with Pratter's as a fund raising method to upkeep the mill and park.Maybe they could do something like a arts n crafts and music festival around there at Bollinger mill to raise money for its repairs and to actually operate it. Although im not sure if Bollinger still has any of the grist milling machinery still intact...

Fantastic stop on our Fall Trip. Great parking, beautiful trees, and picnic areas with BBQ areas. The mill is gorgeous with lots of history. The lower level has a view of the water going through the mill which was fascinating. Nice water fall from the mill that has a nice sound. I could sit there at relax for a long time, like bring my hammock and nap long time. The covered bridge is lovely. Great spot for photography or family portraits. The trail at the back of the parking lot was short but steep and goes to the family cemetery. It was a wonderful outing for the kids and adults. Only downfall was one of the outhouses was horrible smelling but the newer one was not bad at all. I recommend stopping here. It was a really nice drive to get...

First time visiting a state park and Missouri and this one was wonderful! The site itself is gorgeous; it was open with trees and tons of picnic areas (tables and grills) and trashcans. There is a pit toilet (you've been warned) and a short trail that goes to the family cemetery. The Mill is very neat to explore and there is a ton of interpretation around the park to learn about it and the covered bridge. The covered bridge is open to walk on.

You can go in the mill; the first and bottom floors are free to look around and there is a small gift shop offering a few souvenirs (pins, postcards, flour sack, mug, t-shirts). You can also pay for a guided tour of the other floors if you want to see more of the...