Directions to the Light

Some of these might be out of original chronological order. I thought it would make more sense to post the directions first. This was originally posted on my site, joplinspooklight.homestead.com on February 12, 2001:

Tips on viewing, and directions to the Spook Light in Southwest Missouri

The following equipment is a must:

Binoculars - You may not get a good glimpse if the light is not active the night you visit. You may also be fooled into thinking other lights are it.

Beverages - Bring your favorite soft drinks. Caffeinated ones if necessary. DO NOT bring acloholic beverages. Not only should you not be drinking and driving, but you also will be more prone to hallucination, and decreased perception. In addition, many people arrive there drunk and ruin the show for others, and litter. Do not be one of these party poopers.

Snacks - You might get hungry.

Flashlight - Note: use sparingly. You may want to get out of your car and walk around.

The following equipment is recommended:

Sport Utility Vehicle - You will be on some rough roads, and you may get lost. These come in handy.

Infrared Viewer - You may observe something that cannot ordinarily be seen.

A Friend - Believe me you don't want to go there alone.

A Camera - So you can prove to your friends that you will do anything.

When going to see the Spook Light, keep the following tips in mind:

1. You are not on vacant land. People live out there. Be respectful of others. Don't litter. Don't make loud noises. Don't trespass on their land.

2. Do not drink alcohol, or smoke while there. This will lessen your chance of seeing anything, and it may ruin others' fun.

3. Do not use any lights unless necessary. You may not see it when it shows up, and you can also cause yourself to see those spots after staring at light.

4. If you see it, don't panic. It has never hurt anyone, but panicking can. Do not try to shine lights at it, this will not "protect" you, but it may make the Spook Light disappear.

5. When arriving, you should drive approximately 1/2 block up the road. There are dogs that will bark at you all night long if you don't. Do not drive past the first valley, you will gain no advantage in this, and you may ruin the show for others.

6. Do not go chasing around in your car to find it.

Here is how to get there:

From I44, take the State Highway 43 South exit. After a few miles, you will reach a road called Iris. Watch carefully as you will be driving 55 mph. Turn right on Iris. Follow Iris until it ends at Stateline Road. Turn right on Stateline. You will pass E 60. The next road is E 50. This is Spooklight Road. Most recent sightings are here. If you pass E 50 you can stop at E 40. This used to be Spook Light Road. Both have been good for viewing.

Good luck!