When she's not writing, she spends time with her two beautiful and naughty sons. 1. There is a great paved path here for walking and biking. Located in the Ozarks, Ha Ha Tonka State Park is one of Missouris most unique destinations. 678 State Route 147, Troy, MO 63379, Phone: 636-528-7247. These elephant rocks are popular with climbers and hikers. One of the best state parks in Missouri, this park on Forest Lake features fishing, boating, and swimming as well as hiking and mountain biking trails. Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park Activities Choose Activity Park Information Looking for a unique destination? Licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons -, "The Elephant Rocks" by Fredlyfish4 - Own work. The Best State Park in Each State | The Discoverer The Mark Twain State Park is nestled within the Salt River Hills, located in the north-central area of the state of Missouri. She works for a STL metro-area community college and enjoys writing, traveling, and indoor cycling. 1. Today, Devils Well is located within Ozark National Scenic Riverways, which is overseen by the National Park Service and protects the Current and Jack Forks Rivers system. Visitors can also take a walk through the Truman family farm or watch the park film. Get a glimpse of the vivid red rock canyons that the West is known for at Dead Horse Point State Park. 10 Lesser-Known State Parks In Missouri That Will Absolutely Amaze You, The Tragic History Behind One Of Missouris Most Beautiful State Parks Will Never Be Forgotten, Take This Unforgettable Road Trip To 5 Of Missouris Least-Visited State Parks, Visit Wakonda State Park In Missouri For An Unforgettable Experience, Onondaga Cave State Park In Missouri Is So Well Hidden, It Feels Like One Of The States Best-Kept Secrets, Prairie State Park Is An Underrated Park That Just Might Be The Most Beautiful Place In Missouri, This Secluded State Park In Missouri Is So Worthy Of An Adventure, Johnsons Shut-Ins State Park Is The Single Best State Park In Missouri And Its Just Waiting To Be Explored, "Grand Gulf cave 1-02Aug07" by I, Kbh3rd. Of the 31 state parks he visited, Maxi said in a phone interview with the Springfield News-Leader that the five he enjoyed the most were: Ha Ha Tonka, Knob Noster, Taum Sauk Mountain, Onondaga. There is no official trail leading to the bottom, so you should use caution if that is your goal, and there are no camping facilities or running water. 83 RV rentals. 144. Southwest of Salem, Missouri, is 3,000 acres of a green-filled sanctuary. While its just 12 feet high and 163 feet wide, its a glorious example of Missouris natural beautyand a popular place to fish and swim for generations of locals. Those looking for a more unique experience can stay in one of the parks yurts, which are available year-round. 16600 Hwy. Over time, the dolomite underneath the regions soil was cracked until the ceiling of an underground cavern collapsed. Guests can also explore an extensive cave system with a spring, sinkhole, rock bridge, and an underground stream at what is known as the Devils Icebox. The Paved Bicycle Trail is a three-mile trail that leads bikers and hikers through the woody terrain and bluffs of the park. There is no fee to visit this day-use park. Ecologically, the existence of blind cavefish is considered to be a biological indicator of good water quality within a body of water, with the fish only surviving in very sensitive water conditions. There are also cabins and campsites available for overnight park stays, and an interpretive shelter provides information for understand the parks petroglyphs that were left by the inhabitants of the area over 1,5000 years ago. The 4.9-mile tour road features eight interpretive stops at locations significant to the battle. This fascinating state park can be considered a geological wonderland, filled with sheer bluffs, a giant natural bridge, caves, sinkholes, and the twelfth largest spring in the state of Missouri. Lewis And Clark State Park MO. Dubbed the clearest lake in Kansas, Wilson Lake is surrounded by miles of shoreline and rocky cliffs, all of which are open to the public for visiting. Assateague Island isnt your average island. OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. Exhibits on the caves wildlife include information on the rare blind southern cavefish, which live in complete darkness and only show rudimentary evidence of eye formation. It may not be the oldest tourist attraction in the state but Fort Abraham Lincoln, located seven miles south of Mandan, is North Dakotas oldest state park, constructed in 1907. This state park is named after the Ha Ha Tonka Spring, which is the 12th largest spring in Missouri. in English from Mizzou and a M.A. The park has a Visitor Center with exhibits on the history of the Trail of Tears, as well as a memorial to the Cherokee people who died. Montauk State Park is a leafy escape for all things related to fishing, hiking, picnics, and camping. There are often special events that take place here, such as Art in the Park, Park Prescription Day for good health, Storytelling Day, and Prairie Day. The loop is self-guiding and leads visitors through tallgrass prairie, across streams, and through woodlands. Johnsons Shut-Ins State Park has an interesting name and is a unique place with rugged landscapes by the St. Francois Mountains. Enjoy a long trail that winds through the elephant rocks, or go on a self-guided tour of the Devil's Honeycomb, a honeycomb-like rock formation. However, each is worth a visit. While the dance clubs are now gone, the lush valley and meandering Meramec River remain. 13 Best State and National Parks in Missouri - Trips To Discover in Non-Profit Administration from Lindenwood University. Built on the former corridor of the Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad, the well-maintained park closely follows the Missouri River, offering bikers, hikers, equestrians, and everyone in between a scenic way to see much of the state. They also offer a concession stand, showers, and a restroom. Ever wanted to stay in a yurt? Or what about getting up close and personal with some of the states most interesting geological formations? The park is also home to Jam Cave and the largest concentration of first magnitude springs within the United States. The 18,000-acre grove of statuesque trees is unlike anything youve ever seen, with some of the redwoods growing over 50 feet wide and others as tall as the Statue of Liberty. You can rent a campsite or cabin and spend your time hiking, fishing, or simply kicking back and enjoying the shade of the loblolly pines that border the shore. And if youre around after high tide, go search for sea life in the many tide pools that form on the shore. We have so many fun things to do outside in Missouri, in fact, that we can never really get bored. While youre checking out all the tourist attractions in Branson, make a point to visit nearby Table Rock State Park. "image": { George Washington Carver National Monument, 22. It's a beautiful tribute and a nice place to visit with picnic sites and shelters, horse trails, fishing in both the river and lakes, a swimming beach on Lake Boutin, two campgrounds and two playgrounds. The 12 Best Hiking Trails in Missouri - Outdoor Command Cuivre River State Park Not only is there a dungeon to explore, but rumor has it that theres also a secret room that only a few have found. While fishing is the most popular activity within Bennett Spring State Park, there are several other recreational activities and amenities available in the park, including hiking trails, cabins, campgrounds, and a dining lodge. 45 North, Weston, MO 64098, Phone: 816-640-5443. Stop by the official website of, Ha Ha Tonka State Park, 1491 Missouri D, Camdenton, MO 65020, USA, This park features a gorgeous mixture of prairie, woodland, and forest along a creek running through it. When hunger strikes, head to the on-site Mill & Canyon Grill Restaurant, where you can eat an excellent bison burger while gazing at the blue-green Little Indian Creek and a 120-foot waterfall. Sweet home Alabama. 100% 2 Reviews. The River Hills Visitors Center houses various displays that interpret the animal and plant life found within the Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park, as well as interpretive programs. Youll never have to look far, especially since the state is home to hundreds of miles of trails. Today, the park protects the Current and Jacks Fork Rivers ecosystem and showcases a variety of freshwater springs, caves, nature trails, and historic sites. Weston Bend State Park, 16600 MO-45, Weston, MO 64098, USA 4. Read more Self-Check-In at Missouri State Parks Missouri has been recognized many times for its outstanding state parks system. Part natural paradise, part historical site, it boasts caves and natural bridges along with the remains of a 19th-century stone castle. Ozark National Scenic Riverways is the first unit of the National Park Service specifically created to protect a river ecosystem. 10 Best State Parks In Missouri - TheTravel 21, Belleview, MO, Phone: 573-546-3454. It is said Missouri is home to one of the best state park systems in the country. More than 80 parks and historic sites offer 200,000 acres to hike, camp, picnic and play. Looking for a place to hike, camp, or enjoy the scenery? Inks Lake State Park. A favorite stop along the way is the charming town of Rocheport, where you can make a pit stop at the bluff-top Le Bourgeois Winery for fine wine and views of the Missouri River Valley. Why settle for one waterfall when you can have ten? The United States Tour Operators Association, 5 Reasons to Take an Awe-Inspiring Tour in the Great Outdoors, The United States Tour Operators Association (Sponsor), This Dream River Cruise is Filled with Nature and Culture, Dreamy Sunsets and More Delights in This Island Destination, The 8 Best New Hotels in the Catskills and Hudson Valley to Open in 2022. On land, you can bike, hike, backpack, and ride horses here. Escape the hustle and bustle of the Big Apple with a quick trip to Jones Beach on Long Island. 01 of 08 Johnson's Shut-Ins - Reynolds County, MO Keith Yahl/Flickr/CC BY 2.0 Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park is one of Missouri 's most popular and unique outdoor destinations. } These rivers are clear, cold, and spring-fed, providing delightful waters for fishing, boating, swimming, tubing, hiking, bird watching, or canoeing. Nine of the 13 groups crossed the Mississippi River near this park dedicated to the tragedy. Visitors here will even find more than 6,000 caves, many of which offer guided tours. Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park. 403 Hwy 134, Kaiser, MO 65047, Phone: 573-348-2694. 10 Amazing State Parks You Need To Visit Near St. Louis You can explore the critter-filled tidepools on the shore, fuel up at the snack bar, and participate in one of the many events often taking place at the park from sand sculpting contests to beach volleyball tournaments. One of the most romantic island destinations in the United States, Mackinac Island is a popular vacation spot. The Weston Bend State Park is located not too far from Kansas Citys bustling city life. Devils Well sinkhole cave was formed due to erosion of the regions dolomite rock layer and serves as part of the Cave Spring and Current River water supply system. You may even glimpse petroglyphs on some of the rocks that are thousands of years old. "name": "TripsToDiscover", The park consists of over thirteen miles of trails perfect for hiking and exploring the grounds of Meramec State Park, while visitors can also boat, raft, fish, and swim in the Meramec River. "@type": "ImageObject", Guests can learn more about the life of the countrys 33rd president, as well as that of his family. Like the most beautiful Florida beaches that locals dont want you to know about, Honeymoon Island is one of the states best state parks thats under the radar. This park offers a beautiful display of nature and serves as a ground for several outdoor recreations. There is even a large sand beach you can relax on. Visit the official website of, Trail of Tears State Park, 429 Moccasin Springs Rd, Jackson, MO 63755, USA, This park has been referred to as "The Little Grand Canyon" and features a gulf stretching more than a mile with 130 foot high walls. Missouri has stunning parks across the state, but St. Louis is pretty lucky to be so close to some of the best and most beautiful! To see Island Cave, get a permit at the park office between June 15th and September 15th. Most choose to bike a portion of the trail, though hiking, running, and horseback riding are also great ways to experience the park, all the while surrounded by forests, wetlands, prairies, and abundant wildlife. According to users from AllTrails.com, the best place to hike in Trail of Tears State Park is Peewah Trail (Yellow Loop), which has a 4.3 star rating from 239 reviews. Dont let the name fool youyoull be anything but disappointed with a visit to this stunning best state park. The Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park has been a huge stone gateway for family gatherings and cookout for Missourians for generations, as well as a place to simply spend some quality time with friends. Here are 37 of our favorite. Its whats below the surface at this state park in Jefferson County that attracts visitors from all over the region. Its a true hidden gem, which is part of what makes it so special. Perhaps the park's highlight is the ruins of Ha Ha Tonka Castle, which was built in the early 1900s but was destroyed by a fire in 1942. Rustic cabins can be found throughout the state park as well. State Parks near Kansas City, MO | Outdoorsy It is home to many species of birds, including the American bald eagle. The numerous trails that are designated for off-road vehicles make this state park one of the areas premiere destination for off-roading. Come see Ha Ha Tonka State Park for its geological wonders like sinkholes, a natural bridge, bluffs, and caves. Stop by the official website of, Grand Gulf State Park Office, 1007 Nettleton Ave, Thayer, MO 65791, USA, Leave the hustle and bustle of city life behind, and visit Wallace State Park for some serenity. People love to come here to hike, camp, boat, and fish. Most people go to Hawaii for the beaches but you wont want to miss out on whats been nicknamed the Grand Canyon of the Pacific. And the journey to the canyon is just as gorgeous as the park itself. "headline": "13 Best State and National Parks in Missouri", Not only is the Valley of Fire arguably Nevadas most popular state park but its also the oldest and the largest. Come explore this area reclaimed by nature after being strip-mined for coal years ago. Splash around there on a hot summer day, then find a shady spot to relax over a picnic lunch. Overheating and sunstroke can occur in all ages while participating . Find more on the official website of, Edward "Ted" and Pat Jones-Confluence Point State Park, 1000 Riverlands Way, West Alton, MO 63386, USA, Missouri has its own grand canyon at Grand Gulf State Park. Here are the top 12 parks we recommend you visit when you're next looking to ride off-road in Missouri. The first of the Missouri ATV trails run by the state, Finger Lakes State Park, is located in a former mining area and covers around 3,000 acres in total. A number of researchers explored the lake following its discovery, including a 1956 fish observation expedition overseen by geologist Jerry Vineyard. But Fall Creek Falls is arguably one of the most gorgeous and most popular. Other than hiking trails, there is also an outdoor amphitheater where you can catch a summer concert. Discover why, This park features tall grass prairies where you might see elk or the resident bison herd. There are also hiking trails, a campground, and a fishing pond stocked with bass and catfish. Aunindita Bhatia is a professional content writer based in India. With so many great spots to explore natural Missouri, there are state parks that just dont get as much attention as others. 1. 26600 Park Rd North, Lawson, MO 64062, Phone: 816-580-3387. The views at the top will be more than worth it, though. 12 Best ATV Parks in Missouri: Off-Road Trails Campfire programs, nature hikes, craft demonstrations, and bluegrass concerts are presented throughout the year at sites throughout the park. There are also incredible Ozark overlooks and easy access to the Big River for swimming and fishing. The Castle Trail at Ha Ha Tonka State Park leads straight to the remnants of a former castle perfect for exploration and for snapping selfies. It is popular for its tall bluffs, which offer beautiful views of the Meramec River. While relatively small, Ozark Mountain State Park packs a punch. These are more of our favorite family-beach destinations. And one of the best state parks to take it all in is at Eldorado Canyon State Park, where you can trek through the scenic canyon, rock-climb to your hearts content, or picnic by one of the many streams. Best State Parks in Missouri - Tripping.com Rentals Theres a nature center to learn about the parks history and also several miles of trails to hike, bike, and ride horses. The state park also includes both electric and basic campsites, as well as family campsites, along with a playground near the open shelter, which is available to rent for gatherings. Thank you! In addition to this, the state park is filled with a vast amount of landscapes, including caves and sinkholes. Missouri State Parks Psst: Here are 10 real castles you can book on Airbnb. The best way to tour the park is via the Braille Trail, which was specially designed for visitors with visual and physical disabilities. THE 10 BEST Missouri State Parks State Parks in Missouri Enter dates Filters 2 Attractions Traveler favorites All things to do Category types Attractions Tours Day Trips Outdoor Activities Concerts & Shows Food & Drink Events Shopping Transportation Traveler Resources Types of Attractions Nature & Parks Sights & Landmarks Nature & Parks Parks The sinkhole cave provides access to the state of Missouris largest underground lake. Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park offers ancient beauty!
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best state parks in missouri
