This Otherworldly State Park Is the Perfect Dupe for Joshua Tree National Park

You might struggle to believe that there is a state park in Missouri that rivals the magnificent Joshua Tree National Park in southern California. In fact, some of you might even think it’s impossible. After all, Joshua Tree is a massive 800,000-acre park, known for its mind-blowing rock formations, hiking and rock climbing opportunities, scenic drives, and unique terrain. Moreover, it’s home to a thriving ecosystem of Joshua trees (a yucca found in the Mojave Desert) from which the park got its name.

So, what destination in Missouri could possibly share some of these similarities? Obviously, Elephant Rocks State Park in Belleview. This otherworldly state park in Missouri is the perfect dupe for Joshua Tree National Park - at least in my humble opinion. For folks who are skeptics, allow me to change your mind. 

By no means am I claiming that Elephant Rock can replace a trip to the mighty Joshua Tree National Park. What I am saying is, if you can’t make it to California, our state park is a wonderful alternative. Plus, it’s FREE! And I promise the similarities will make you forget about the differences.

For instance, the two parks are playgrounds for outdoor enthusiasts with scenic overlooks and lots of family-friendly activities. The jaw-dropping rock formations found in both parks were created underground from cooled magma and then carved many years ago by erosion. Surprisingly, the granite outcroppings at our state park were formed 1.5 billion (yes, billion) years ago, making them the “oldest rocks in south-central and eastern United States.” Just as impressive, the formations at Joshua Tree date back 100 million years.

Both destinations have hiking trails where explorers can witness the awe-inspiring natural wonders. However, what I like about Elephant Rock is that the tiny 134-acre park has one major trail that doesn’t require a lot of effort for huge rewards. 

At one mile long, the Elephant Rocks Braille Trail is family-friendly, it’s easily accessible, and great for adventurers with all abilities. The paved trail is wheelchair friendly and has interpretive braille signs and other features for explorers with physical disabilities. Kids and your leashed pups will have a blast here, too. 

As you wind through the towering boulder maze, you’ll believe you’ve been transported to another world. Visitors love to climb and scramble over the massive rocks, aka elephants, from which the park was named. It’s highly recommended to go off-trail and create your own adventure here. Joshua Tree also has rock climbing and alien-like formations along the two-mile Skull Rock Trail. 

The two destinations are surrounded by mountains, so the panoramic views are quite astonishing. At Elephant Rock, you can find quiet areas to soak up the vistas of the rolling hills of Saint Francois Mountain. The beautiful terrain stretches as far as the eye can see. 

Other similarities include historical and cultural significance. If you explore the half-mile Engine House Ruins Trail inside Elephant Rock, it leads to the ruins of an engine house used to fix train engines and railroad cars in the 1800s. You’ll also find the remains of the Sheehan Quarry operations along this trail, which is a great spot for more rock scrambling or to relax and admire the shimmering emerald water. The good news? You can cast a fishing line at the large quarry and wait for bluegill to bite. An activity that you won’t find inside Joshua Tree National Park.  

Major differences include the size of the parks, and there are over 150 trails to trek at Joshua Tree. This means you’ll find a lot more hikers inside the national park. If you plan your trip to Elephant Rock during the weekday, you could potentially have sections of the trail all to yourself. Joshua Tree’s terrain combines the Mojave and the Colorado Desert, making the ecosystem quite unique to the region. There are also monoliths and rock gardens inside the park that are truly unbelievable, and the elevation extends to about 5,000 feet. Plus, you won’t find Joshua Trees anywhere in Missouri, but you will find gorgeous oaks and hickories inside Elephant Rock State Park.  

I can literally continue listing the differences and similarities between the two destinations. Truth be told, both are worth a trip as they each have unique characteristics that keep visitors coming back for more. But if you can’t make it to the west, head to Elephant Rock instead. This otherworldly state park in Missouri is a fun natural playground with activities for all to enjoy.  

Have you been to Joshua Tree National Park or Elephant Rock? If so, tell us on our nomination page your favorite things about these natural wonders. 

And if you need more inspiration, take this road trip to explore our hidden gem state parks in Missouri.