The Tragic History Behind One Of Missouri’s Most Beautiful State Parks Will Never Be Forgotten

Trail of Tears State Park, one of the most historic state parks to visit in Missouri, sits on the location where trail crossed the river and now commemorates those who lost their lives and suffered because of the Cherokee Removal. In 1830, President Andrew Jackson passed the Indian Removal Act which forced Cherokee tribes who lived east of the Mississippi River to relocate. Missouri, specifically Cape Girardeau County, was one of the most perilous stops along the Trail of Tears as many lost their lives attempting to cross the Mississippi. More than 16,000 Cherokee people were forced from their homes, and it is estimated that nearly 4,000 lost their lives on the Trail of Tears from Tennessee to Oklahoma.

It's hard to believe that an American tragedy took place in this beautiful area more than 180 years ago.

Missouri's Trail of Tears State Park was established to honor the lives lost during the Cherokee Removal. In the dead of winter, nine of the 13 Cherokee Indian groups were forced to cross the Mississippi River where the park now sits.

This map shows the long and perilous path that the Cherokee Indians traveled.

Pee-Wah Trail is a fairly easy hike that will take you to an amazing observation deck.

From the observation deck at the top of the bluffs, you can take in the stunning views of the Mississippi River bottoms.

Sheppard Point Trail is the hardest of the two trails in the park. This three-mile loop goes through some tough terrain, but the views are well worth your trouble.

Lake Boutin is also a part of Trail of Tears State Park. You can boat, fish, or swim at the sandy beach.

The campgrounds are right on the river's edge, and there is plenty of room for your camper. If you like to rough it, you can pitch a tent at one of the primitive sites.

Visit Trail of Tears State Park to remember those who lost their lives during the Cherokee Removal. Reconnect with nature, and be grateful for the opportunity to fish, swim, hike, camp, and more at this amazing state park.

You can find Trail of Tears State Park at 429 Moccasin Springs, Jackson.

What are your favorite state parks to visit in Missouri? Have you been to Trail of Tears State Park? What did you enjoy most about your visit? Did you know about the sad history of this state park? Share with us in the comments below. Then start planning a visit to these 10 lesser-known state parks in Missouri.