Big Springs brings together local water and railroad history, seasonal lavender offerings, and Pool Park. To plan your trip, you can first decide whether to focus on historic landmarks, a visit to Our Lavender Co., or time in the park.
Springs and Memorials in Big Springs
Big Springs Spring Site is a local attraction and the spring after which the town was named. The spring supplied fresh water to early Indigenous groups. Later, Big Springs Creek served as a water source for Union Pacific steam locomotives. These illustrate two distinct historical roles of local water: supplying early groups and serving railroad operations.
Another way to explore the past is the historic Sam Bass and Big Springs Train Robbery memorial marker in Big Springs. It commemorates the first and largest robbery of a Union Pacific train. The Big Springs Veterans Memorial honors residents and former students who served; their names are engraved in remembrance. The marker thus points to a railroad event, while the memorial honors people who served.
Railroad History and Nearby Historic Sites
The historic Union Pacific depot in Big Springs was moved from its original location and converted into a museum. The Big Springs Depot Museum displays railroad artifacts. The Big Springs Depot Museum and Veterans Memorial also displays military uniforms belonging to local veterans. Together, these exhibits offer insight into railroad and military history, though they do not share the same focus.
South Platte Station is also part of the region’s history: it was a Pony Express station near Big Springs. As a separate landmark, Waterman Sod House is located nine miles north of Big Springs on Day Road. It is therefore a nearby historic site outside town, while the memorial marker and depot are among the described sites in Big Springs.
Our Lavender Co. and Seasonal Blooms
Our Lavender Co. is a five-acre lavender farm south of Big Springs. During the growing season, lavender and various other cut flowers bloom there; bloom times can vary. Farm tours explain different lavender varieties as well as how the plants are grown, harvested, processed, and used. A visit therefore offers not only a chance to see the blooms but also insight into working with the plants.
The farm shop offers coffee and lavender lemonade, which visitors can enjoy while strolling through the fields. Beverage offerings may vary seasonally. If the blooms are important to your trip planning, bear in mind that their timing may differ from year to year.
Pool Park and Getting There
Pool Park combines a modern swimming pool with a covered picnic area and play equipment. It offers both swimming and facilities for an outdoor break. Seasonal pool hours may vary; check before your visit to see whether it will be open during your travel dates.
Big Springs is near the junctions of two major interstate highways. I-76 connects Denver, Colorado, with I-80, an important east-west route across the United States. Check the route before setting out. When choosing your travel dates, you can also consider whether seasonal blooms or swimming at Pool Park are particularly important to your plans.
For the broader travel overview: Deuel County.
