The 10 Secret Parks Of Missouri You've Never Heard Of But Need To Visit
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Liz Oliver
Author
Missouri has one of the best public parks systems in the nation but some of our larger more unique parks often overshadow some amazing state parks. From remote locals to hidden urban parks, this list of 10 secret parks in Missouri is the perfect reason to get outside an explore the Show Me State. Stand where rivers meet, hike ancient trails, and immerse yourself in nature — all in the great state of Missouri.
Known as the "little grand canyon" this stunning state park is often overlooked because of its remote location. This park is full of stunning geological wonders and should be on every Missourian's bucket list. Find Grand Gulf State Park at Hwy. W, Thayer.
Follow the boardwalk trail through Big Oak Tree State Park for a truly rugged experience. This park is almost completely undisturbed and is the perfect place to spot wildlife. This remote park sits near the Kentucky border in southeast Missouri. Surround yourself with nature under the canopy of the towering oaks at Big Oak Tree State Park locates at 13640 South Hwy 102, East Prairie.
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Stockton Lake is a great little spot in the Ozarks that is undisturbed by development. Popular among sailors, this calm little lake is a great place to learn how to ski. This park also has great camping options from cabins to campsites, there is a great spot for your group near the lake. Find the park at 19100 S. Hwy. 215, Dadeville.
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Van Meter State Park features the remnants of the Missouria Indian village. You can take the boardwalk trails over the marsh or utilize the well-stocked lake. Visit Missouri's American Indian Cultural Center located at the park's entrance. Find Van Meter State Park at 32146 N. Hwy. 122, Miami.
Located in rural northern Missouri Crowder State Park has more than 17 miles of hiking trails. The park also offers an 18-acre lake perfect for small boats. Find this big, beautiful park at 76 NW Highway 128, Trenton.
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There is no park in the world like the Edward "Ted" and Pat Jones-Confluence Point State Park. This unique park sits at the point where the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers meet. The site also marks the beginning of the famous Lewis and Clark Expiation. It's also the perfect place to spot bald eagles. Visit the Edward "Ted" and Pat Jones-Confluence Point State Park at 1000 Riverlands Way, West Alton.
If you love Route 66 and the great outdoors, then this little park in Eureka is perfect for you. At the Route 66 State Park visitors can head to the visitor center which is a former inn that once served the travelers of Missouri's Route 66. Find the park just outside St. Louis at 97 North Outer Rd., Suite 1, Eureka.
Some of the best hiking trails in the nation are hiding inside Hawn State Park. Take in the beautiful sights of the streams, canyons, and cliffs just minutes from Missouri's oldest settlement. Find the park at 12096 Park Dr., Ste. Genevieve.
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Looking for a park that is great for hiking and canoeing? Check out St. Francois State Park for a relaxing weekend on the river. This stunning park is located at 8920 US Highway 67 North,
Bonne Terre.
Just under an hour from St. Louis, this hidden gem features a diverse landscape perfect for nature lovers. This rugged park has miles of trails that will make you feel like you're worlds away from civilization. Find the park at 9275 Byrnesville R., Cedar Hill.
Have you been to any of these amazing state parks? What other parks in Missouri do you think are vastly underrated? Let us know what parks we should feature in the comments below.
Check out 10 more Missouri State Parks that you need to visit.
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