Life just gets way too noisy sometimes, doesn't it? Sometimes we just need to turn off the TV, shut down technology, and escape to a quiet, remote spot. Fortunately, we've got an abundance of tranquil spots all across the state, where we can just get away from it all. This park in Missouri, for example, offers quiet among nature, making it an idyllic day destination.
Big Oak Tree State Park, in East Prairie, sprawls across more than 1,000 acres of lush green and towering trees that provide a canopy of shade from the golden sunshine.
The park, in fact, is home to oak and hickory trees that stand as high as 120 feet, to marshy swamps, and to a collection of bird species — from wood ducks to American robins.
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If you're an avid bird watcher, you'll love Big Oak Tree State Park. Officials have recorded more than 180 different bird species in the park.
Explore the park on a scenic hike, too, on a metal boardwalk that crosses over a swampy area. You might just see such local wildlife as raccoons, deer, and opossums.
However, keep an eye on the weather before you head to the park. The boardwalk can and does often flood after a rainfall.
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Big Oak Tree State Park also provides the perfect backdrop for a leisurely picnic. Bring your favorite foods along, and snag a bench by the water...
...or find a cozy spot at a picnic pavilion.
Discover tranquility among nature at Big Oak Tree State Park, open daily from 6 a.m. until sunset.
Click here for the official website of Big Oak Tree State Park. Or, go here for Facebook.
Do you have a favorite park in Missouri that promises peace and quiet, away from the crowds? Tell us about it in the comments! If you're looking for a remote, hidden gem where you can dig into a delicious meal, head over to The Fish Market in Liberty.
Even the most extroverted among us crave some quiet time every now and then. Fortunately, Missouri’s brimming with tranquil destinations – from secluded state parks to remote natural areas – where we can escape whenever we just want some time away from it all. Robertsville State Park is just one example of a quiet gem that’s worthy of a visit. It's also home to two of the best hiking trails in Missouri.
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Just under an hour from downtown St. Louis, Robertsville State Park makes an idyllic daytrip destination or, if you’re up for an overnight adventure, a few nights camping under the stars.
With more than 1,200 acres, this secluded state park offers something for everyone. One of the best ways to explore, however, is on one of its two scenic hiking trails.
The Lost Hill Trail travels just over 2.5 miles and earns a moderate rating while the Spice Bush Trail is short and sweet at just .08 of a mile. It, too, has a moderate rating.
If you have the time, follow both of the Robertsville State Park trails.
But hiking is just one way to explore this secluded paradise. Slip your boat into the Meramec River for a relaxing float. Or how about going fishing?
No matter how you decide to get to know this Missouri state park, you'll be treated to an abundance of natural beauty - from wildflowers to wildlife.
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Pack everything you need for a picnic, too. The park features several picnic shelters and picnic tables. After everyone's eaten, the kiddos can play at the nearby playground.
Robertsville State Park also hosts interpretive programs throughout the year. From nature hikes to evening programs, there's something for outdoor lovers of all ages.
If you're blissfully relaxed and want some more time at this Missouri state park, pitch a tent and spend a night or two. Both basic and electric sites are available.
Have you been to this remote state park, home to two of the best hiking trails in Missouri? What did you think? Let us know in the comments! Did you know that Robertsville State Park is just one of several underappreciated state parks near St. Louis, Missouri?
Ready for more outdoor adventures? How about setting off on one of the best hikes in Missouri? Just check out AllTrails for some of the best.
Missouri is beautiful all year long. However, autumn just might be the most enchanting of the four seasons, especially with the landscape painted in shades of red, orange, and gold. Fall is also the perfect chance to enjoy the crisp air, the sound of the leaves crunching beneath our feet, and just being outside. Here are 11 of the best places to visit in Missouri in the fall that will make your autumn even better.
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1. Elephant Rocks State Park – Belleview
Elephant Rocks State Park offers plenty to do all year, but it's particularly pretty during fall in Missouri. Embark on one of the hiking trails; bring a picnic along; or watch your kiddos on the playground after a bit of leaf peeping. Read more about this unique Missouri state park in a previous article.
2. Ha Ha Tonka State Park – Camdenton
Brimming with natural wonders from a stunning blue spring to a natural bridge, Ha Ha Tonka State Park promises numerous ways to admire the fall foliage. Go on a hike. Kayak on the water, and stop by the castle ruins. Ha Ha Tonka State Park is the perfect fall day trip in Missouri.
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3. Taum Sauk Mountain – Arcadia Township
Can you think of a better place to check out the foliage in Missouri this fall than from the highest point in the state? Taum Sauk Mountain State Park is home to the highest point, which measures 1,772 feet, and you can drink in the views from an easy-to-reach lookout tower. Taum Sauk Mountain boasts some of the best scenic views in Missouri.
4. Alley Spring – Eminence
As the seventh-largest spring in Missouri, Alley Spring beckons visitors with its sheer natural beauty. During the autumn, it transforms into a scene that belongs on an old-fashioned postcard. Learn more about the gorgeous Missouri hike that will take you to Alley Spring.
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5. Dogwood Canyon Nature Park – Lampe
Dogwood Canyon Nature Park provides a beautiful backdrop for a day outdoors having fun and admiring the fall foliage. You'll find a ton to do at the park (which requires an admission fee), from hiking trails to horseback riding. Read more about this family-friendly day trip in our previous article.
6. Tower Grove Park – St. Louis
A stroll through Tower Grove Park in the fall, ideally at the peak of the fall foliage, is the perfect autumn activity. The park is open daily from sunrise to sunset, giving you plenty of time to explore and admire the colorful grounds. Did you know that Tower Grove Park is one of Missouri's most unique parks?
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7. Stone Hill Winery – Hermann
One of the oldest wineries in the United States, Stone Hill Winery in Hermann is a must-visit any time of the year. Plan a tour and tasting at the winery that's absolutely breathtaking painted in rustic colors. Take a peek at this charming Missouri winery. It's one of the most fun places to visit in the fall.
8. Mark Twain National Forest – Rolla
Stretching 1.5 million acres, Mark Twain National Forest offers something for all outdoor lovers - from scenic hikes to camping. Admire the fall foliage as you explore on foot, by bike, or on horseback. Did you know that Mark Twain National Forest is home to Missouri's second-largest spring?
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9. Branson Zipline at Wolfe Mountain – Branson
Get your adrenaline pumping on one of the zipline tours at Branson Zipline at Wolfe Mountain, which promises both jaw-dropping views and breathtaking excitement. Learn more about this epic autumn adventure in Missouri in our previous article.
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10. Weston Bend State Park – Weston
State parks in the fall? Yes, please! We have plenty of state parks to visit, each of which offers its own scenic views of the fall foliage. Weston Bend State Park features a scenic overlook (pictured above), where you can stand back and drink in the autumn beauty. Get a glimpse of the fun that awaits at this Missouri state park.
11. Cuivre River State Park – Troy
Billed as one of Missouri's most rugged parks, Cuivre River State Park boasts absolutely gorgeous views of the fall foliage. The park features a series of hiking trails, horseback riding, and boating. Learn more on the official website of Cuivre River State Park.
What are your favorite destinations and best places to visit in Missouri in the fall? Let us know in the comments! Then check out the seven reasons Ha Ha Tonka State Park is an amazing fall destination in Missouri.
Want to go hiking this fall in Missouri? Make sure you have the handy AllTrails+ app downloaded to your phone!