Missouri
Nature|National & State Parks

If You Live In Kansas City, You Must Visit This Amazing State Park

Weston Bend State Park offers a peaceful escape into nature with over 1,000 acres and 10 hiking trails near Kansas City.

Published Jan 7, 2018

Written by 

Clarisa

Do you ever get a little tired of the noise of the city? Do you ever want to get away from it all, even for a little while? This state park near Kansas City is the perfect getaway from all the hustle and bustle we're accustomed to. Give your ears a break and take a well-deserved escape into nature, even if it's just for a couple of hours!

Weston Bend State Park is a great place to explore the beautiful outdoors without driving across the state to get there.

alt
Kate Marie/AllTrails

There are over 1,000 acres of park land and 10 different hiking trails to choose from while you're here.

advertisement

Though many wait for summer to get out and hike, we think this park is stunning any time of year. As long as you have the right equipment, you can hike in snow!

alt
Adam Andersen/AllTrails

Just make sure you're following the trail carefully, and you're in the clear.

Spring and autumn make this state park come to life, with colors everywhere and the sounds of nature filling your ears.

alt
Tatiana Smith/AllTrails

Of course, listening to crunchy leaves and spotting the occasional deer or fox is my favorite part.

There's even an old barn where they used to store tobacco from the harvest - and you can rent out the beautiful venue for special events!

alt
Tatiana Smith/AllTrails

Nearby Weston, Missouri got its start with tobacco farming and trade. There are five barns total, but only one is usable at this time.

advertisement

There are both basic and electric campsites where you can stay longer than a day if you fall in love with the place.

alt
Michael Taylor/AllTrails

Several of the trails are paved, making for easy access for those of us who want an easier walk or travel on wheels instead.

And who wouldn't fall in love with this natural paradise? Just watching the sunset over the water is enough to make me want to go hiking today!

alt
Cat C/AllTrails

Add Weston Bend State Park to your bucket list this year, and pick your favorite season to explore this amazing area.

Head on out to 16600 Missouri 45, Weston, Missouri. Here's a handy map to help you find the park. Happy trails!

If this state park gets you in the mood to travel, you should definitely add it to your 2018 Kansas City bucket list.

Subscribe to our newsletter

Get the latest updates and news

Nature|National & State Parks

7 Under-Appreciated State Parks Near Kansas City You’re Sure To Love

Discover seven under-appreciated state parks near Kansas City that offer unique outdoor experiences and historical value.

Updated Jul 23, 2023

Written by 

Clarisa

No matter the time of year, state parks in Missouri are always great places to visit. Unfortunately, several of the state parks near Kansas City aren't beloved by those who frequent them. Instead, they're often overlooked in favor of more popular places like Parkville Nature Sanctuary where there are waterfalls and all sorts of extra activities. Step outside the city for a while and consider spending a weekend at one of the following seven under-appreciated state parks near Kansas City. These state parks in MO are great destinations for anyone who loves the outdoors, and we suggest adding them to your bucket list.

advertisement

1. Watkins Woolen Mill State Park — Lawson, Missouri

alt
Watkins Woolen Mill State Park and State Historic Site/Facebook

This amazing MO state park offers less of the "wildlife retreat" you'll find in other places and more of a historical value. There are plenty of places to camp out and enjoy the wildlife, but don't forget about the preserved woolen mill here, too.

2. Hillsdale State Park — Paola, Kansas

alt
Hillsdale State Park - Kansas Wildlife, Parks, and Tourism/Facebook

Hillsdale State Park has a beautiful reservoir to enjoy during warmer months. The park also has more than 12,000 acres of wildlife area to explore, so take your time.

3. Lewis and Clark State Park — Rushville, Missouri

alt
Show Me Missouri/Facebook

The Lewis and Clark River is a notable location mentioned in their journals, so Missouri has dedicated this area as a state park in their honor. It's a great place to watch the water birds play and to have a picnic with family.

4. Weston Bend State Park — Weston, Missouri

alt
christophermoverton/Flickr

Weston Bend is one of the best state parks near me for hiking. The trees and moss make it look like you've entered a storybook forest.

advertisement

5. Wallace State Park — Cameron, Missouri

alt
vicki watkins/Flickr

Wallace State Park is often overlooked, but it has a lot to offer. Other than the standard park features, there's also a walking bridge that makes viewing it so much easier than navigating a dirt path.

6. Clinton State Park — Lawrence, Kansas

alt
flickr/kansasphoto

Clinton State Park is a great spot for fun during the warmer months. You can camp, boat, fish, and even rent a cabin if you'd rather stay in something sturdier than a tent. Plus, sunsets here are always stunning.

7. Knob Noster State Park — Knob Noster, Missouri

alt
Knob Noster State Park/Facebook

Knob Noster is a great place, and their state park isn't an exception. There are plenty of trails, campgrounds, woodlands, and even a creek.

Have you ever visited any of these state parks near Kansas City? If so, please feel free to share your experiences with us in the comments below.

To further explore the outdoors, there are plenty of hiking trails near Kansas City. You'll especially love the Blue River Parkway and Minor Park Trail.

For information about more fun hikes near Kansas City, be sure to sign up for AllTrails Plus. If you do decide to go hiking, don't forget to bring a water bottle to stay hydrated.

Subscribe to our newsletter

Get the latest updates and news

Nature|National & State Parks

7 Amazing State Parks Around Kansas City That Will Blow You Away

Discover the best state parks near Kansas City for hiking, horseback riding, and enjoying nature.

Updated Jul 6, 2023

Written by 

Clarisa

Looking for a break in your routine? Why not take a trip out to one of the nearby state parks you know you've been missing out on? If you've ever searched online for "best state parks near me" in Kansas City, you may be surprised what you'll find. You can soak up some sun when the days are warmer, or enjoy a brisk hike when the air is cooler. Some of these state parks even offer horse trails for you and your equine companion. Let's get out there! In no particular order, here are the best state parks near Kansas City.

advertisement

1. Hillsdale State Park

alt
Hillsdale State Park - Kansas Wildlife, Parks and Tourism/Facebook

This Paola, Kansas park isn't anything to shake a stick at, especially during a sunset. This park also has plenty of hiking and horseback riding trails, as well as a lake for all your water-related activities. Learn more by visiting the official KS Outdoors website.

2. Watkins Mill State Park

alt
Gwen's River City Images/Flickr

This State Historic Site and the surrounding park hold the only 19th-century textile mill in the United States that still has it's original machinery. The mill and home have been preserved well, and give visitors a look into life in the 1870s. This is one of the best state parks near Kansas City. While you're there, try out this easy trail!

3. Weston Bend State Park

alt
T toes/Flickr

Catch gorgeous views of the Missouri River or take the three-mile loop through the woods and enjoy the peace and quiet away from the city. Everyone needs a break at some point, right? Learn more about one of the most beautiful parks near Kansas City on the Missouri State Parks website.

4. Perry State Park

alt
Perry State Park - Kansas Wildlife, Parks, & Tourism/Facebook

This park in Ozawkie, Kansas features thousands of acres of wildlife area to hike through and enjoy the views overlooking the reservoir. There are 25 miles of horse trails and 20 miles of biking/hiking trails for you to enjoy so make sure you plan to spend all day here! Camping here is a special treat, as the wooded area makes you feel like you're much farther away from the city than you really are. Visit KS Outdoors for more information.

advertisement

5. Lewis and Clark State Park

alt
Tye McCaughey/Google Local

What is today Lewis and Clark Lake, was once described by the pair in 1804 as a lake full of geese. Now there are plenty of picnic areas, and birdwatchers from all over come to see the geese, herons, and eagles flock to this spot. Visit the Missouri State Parks website for more information.

6. Knob Noster State Park

alt
Missouri State Parks/Facebook

Though it has a funny name, this Missouri park has some awesome trees that sometimes make it seem like you're in a fairy forest. It also features both hiking and horseback trails, so don't leave your horse at the door! Learn more about one of the best state parks near Kansas City on the official Missouri State Parks website.

7. Jerry Smith Park

alt
Kevin Harrington (Simba)/Google Local

Okay, so you've caught us. This one isn't a state park, but it's gorgeous and it definitely fits the bill for a gorgeous park near Kansas City. There's no reason why it shouldn't be on this list! Visit KCParks.org to learn more about this Kansas City state park.

Take a look at this video by @TwoShea:

Have you ever searched online for "best state parks near me" around Kansas City? What's your favorite park in or near Kansas City? Tell us your picks in the comments and don't forget to try AllTrails+ free for one week!

advertisement

Make sure you're all fueled up for a hike by trying one of the famous foods Kansas City is known for. They're so tasty! 

Subscribe to our newsletter

Get the latest updates and news

All Stories

Nature
Wildlife & Farms

The Audubon Center in New Jersey Where You’ll See Dozens of Bird Species in a Single Afternoon

by Raymond Goldfield
on Oct 12
alt
Food
Restaurants

This Pennsylvania Dining Experience Has Been Called One of the Best Restaurants in the U.S.

by Raymond Goldfield
on Oct 12
alt
Food

The Best Apple Cider Donuts in Connecticut Come From the Country’s Last Steam-Powered Cider Mill

by Beth Price-Williams
on Oct 12
alt
Stays
Hotels & Resorts

I Enjoyed a Perfect Coastal Retreat at This Mid-Century Hotel and San Diego’s Newest Restaurant

by Natasha Kayes
on Oct 11
alt
Nature
Beaches, Lakes & Rivers

Explore One of Alaska’s Deepest, Cleanest Lakes Near Two National Parks

by Megan McDonald
on Oct 11
alt