Did you know there are 92 state parks to visit in Missouri? With so many great spots to explore natural Missouri, there are state parks that just don’t get as much attention as others. From sparkling lakes and stunning views to majestic animals and unique rock formations, the best state parks in Missouri offer so much to do, for visitors of all ages. Here are 10 lesser-known state parks that are worthy of a whole lot more attention.

1. Big Oak Tree State Park — East Prairie
Big Oak Tree State Park, 13640 MO-102, East Prairie, MO 63845, USA
Missouri State Park Website
You'll see some of the oldest and largest trees in the state at Big Oak Tree State Park. The wetlands also make it a great place to see wildlife. One of the best parks in Missouri to visit all year around, Big Oak Tree State Park offers a full list of amenities - hiking trails, a playground, and a picnic area. Here's the official website of Big Oak Tree State Park.
2. Edward "Ted" and Pat Jones Confluence Point State Park — West Alton
Edward "Ted" and Pat Jones-Confluence Point State Park, 1000 Riverlands Way, West Alton, MO 63386, USA
Missouri State Park Website
Experience the power of the mighty Mississippi River at this amazing riverfront park that features the short but sweet Confluence Point Trail. Don't forget your camera, because you might have the opportunity to see bald eagles and waterfowl. Find more on the official website of Edward "Ted" and Pat Jones-Confluence Point State Park.
3. Grand Gulf State Park — Thayer
Grand Gulf State Park Office, 1007 Nettleton Ave, Thayer, MO 65791, USA
Missouri State Park Website
Missouri has its own grand canyon at Grand Gulf State Park. The gulf stretches a mile between the 130-foot tall rock walls. You can hike down to the bottom and cross a natural stone bridge for a spectacular experience. If you're looking for outdoor activities in Missouri, you've definitely come to the right place. Bring a picnic, and make a day of it. (There are no camping facilities at the state park.) Stop by the official website of Grand Gulf State Park for more information.
4. Wallace State Park — Cameron
Wallace State Park, 10621 MO-121, Cameron, MO 64429, USA
Google/S. Palmer
Leave the hustle and bustle of city life behind, and visit Wallace State Park for some serenity. Enjoy nature all within a one-hour drive from Kansas City. The six-acre lake is popular for boating and swimming, or you can head out on one of the most scenic hiking trails Missouri. Check out the official website of Wallace State Park.
5. Don Robinson State Park — Cedar Hill
Don Robinson State Park, 9275 Byrnesville Rd, Cedar Hill, MO 63016, USA
Missouri State Park Website
Another beautiful park is a natural oasis for those on the eastern side of the state. Take a short drive from St. Louis to see sandstone box canyons, shelter caves, cliffs, glades and upland and bottomland forests. This breathtaking park is also one of the newer parks in the state park system. Find more on the official website of Don Robinson State Park.

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6. Prairie State Park — Mindenmines
Prairie State Park, 128 NW 150th Ln, Mindenmines, MO 64769, USA
Missouri State Park Website
Most of Missouri's prairie lands have been destroyed. The bison that once roamed across our state in droves are now nearly non-existent. However, Prairie State Park is working to revitalize our native grasslands and bring back animals from our past. See the wildflowers in the summer, and take in the views. Picture-perfect all year around, Prairie State Park earns props as one of the best state parks in Missouri for viewing the resident bison. Stop by the official website of Prairie State Park for more information.
7. Montauk State Park — Salem
Montauk State Park, 345 County Rd 6670, Salem, MO 65560, USA
Missouri State Park Website
There are many great places to fly fish in Missouri, but this lesser-known park is great for those looking to avoid the crowds. There is also a historic grist mill on-site that is open for tours and lots of opportunities for hiking. Here's the official website of Montauk State Park.
8. Lake Wappapello State Park —Williamsville
Lake Wappapello State Park, MO-172, Williamsville, MO 63967, USA
Google/Sara Starosta
Lake Wappapello State Park is great for people with diverse interests and one of the best for those looking for things to do outside in Missouri. It's the perfect place for boating, fishing, swimming, hiking, or equestrian trail riding. There is even a large sand beach you can relax on. Head over to the official website of Lake Wappapello State Park to learn more.
9. Big Lake State Park — Craig
Big Lake State Park, 7181, 204 Lake Shore Dr, Craig, MO 64437, USA
Missouri State Park Website
Big Lake is a small but mighty park that features one of the last remaining oxbow lakes in the state. The shallow lake is great for small water vessels and fishing. Bring your bikes, and explore the bike path before cooling off with a swim. Learn more on the official website of Big Lake State Park.
10. Big Sugar Creek State Park — Pineville
Big Sugar Creek State Park, 6727 Big Sugar Creek Rd, Pineville, MO 64856, USA
Missouri State Park Website
A great rugged hike awaits you at Big Sugar Creek. Take the 3.35-mile long trail along the rock bed, and enjoy the peaceful setting. Stop by the official website of Big Sugar Creek State Park for more information.

What are your favorite state parks to visit in Missouri? Let us know in the comments! Then check out 10 more of the best state parks in Missouri that are sure to knock your socks off.

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More to Explore

State Parks To Visit In Missouri

Beth Price-Williams | February 09, 2022

What are some of the best parks in Missouri?

We have so many state parks in Missouri that we probably haven’t even heard of them all. However, each is worth a visit. Big Oak Tree State Park, for example, features a gorgeous boardwalk trail, dotted with benches and brimming with the chance to see local wildlife. Crowder State Park boasts 17 miles of hiking trails and a lake that’s perfect for boating. Learn more about the rich history of Route 66 at the Visitor Center at Route 66 State Park, and spend a day canoeing at St. Francois State Park.

What are some of the most scenic hiking trails in Missouri?

Hiking is one of the best ways to explore Missouri. With all of the scenic hiking trails in Missouri, in fact, you could probably spend a lifetime exploring them. If you’re a newbie to hiking, you’ll find an abundance of easy trails to help you get started. Pass a picturesque waterfall, for example, along the trail at Pickle Springs Natural Area. Sandy Creek Covered Bridge Trail gives a peek into the past – and it’s a simple five-minute stroll to one of Missouri’s four remaining covered bridges. Or find peace and quiet along the easy, five-mile Fellows Lake Trail in Springfield.

What are some of the best kid-friendly hiking trails in Missouri?

Can you think of a better way to spend a few hours, or an entire day, than outdoors with the kids? Fortunately, we have an abundance of kid-friendly hiking trails in Missouri, many of which span only a mile or less. Old Kate Trail meanders less than a mile through Parkville Nature Sanctuary and features a beautiful waterfall. If the kids are fans of caves, they’ll probably love the Cave Springs Park Trail in Kansas City. 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.

 

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