Four State Parks Within an Hour of St. Louis, Missouri

According to the Missouri Department of Natural Resources, the Missouri State Park system hosts 85 parks and historic sites on 144,198 acres. Numerous sites can be found in the six regions of the state. Each offers a variety of activities, both inexpensive and designed to meet the recreational needs of all. Depending upon your location and desired activities, they are easily accessible in a matter of minutes or a four or five hour drive.

18 parks or sites are located within the St. Louis region and can easily be reached in an hour and a half tops from the Gateway Arch in downtown St. Louis. I have found four appealing parks situated along the I-44 corridor, the Interstate that replaced the historic U.S. Route 66.

Castlewood State Park

When one thinks of a State Park, the idea is that it sits out in the countryside far removed from the hustle and bustle of the big city. Not Castlewood. The park actually is located in the sleepy suburban sprawl community of Ballwin, Missouri. Rich in history and scenic beauty, the park offers hiking on seven trails. Climb to the top of the bluffs over looking the Meramec River and back down to the river bed. Bicycles and equestrian traffic are permitted on some trails. Fish in the river or picnic with the family.

Route 66 State Park

Heading west again on I-44, Route 66 State Park is located in Eureka, Missouri near Six Flags. An old roadhouse serves as the visitor center and a museum honoring the historic highway replete with memorabilia of America's most famous road. Hike, bicycle or ride your horse to your heart's content. The trails are level and accessible for those with disabilities. Bird watch or study nature; it all depends on what you wish to do.

Robertsville State Park

Jump back on WB I-44 and in approximately 15-20 minutes, you will be at the exit for Robertsville State Park. This is my personal favorite spot for camping. A small campground, as far as campgrounds go, there are only 27 camp sites in the loop. Each is tucked peacefully into the wooded area and the sounds of the forest's inhabitants come alive as you pitch your tent and start the campfire. On the nights of the full moon, slivers of light cut through the trees creating a feeling of unimagined tranquility.

The park also offers a hiking trail and a boat launch onto the Meramec River.

Meramec State Park.

A few more miles down the road near Sullivan, you come to Meramec State Park. If you can't find what you are looking for there, you can't find it. Camping (over 200 sites), hiking, cave exploration, fishing, boating, rafting, canoeing, the list goes on and on. Only an hours drive from downtown St. Louis. Get away from it all here. Come during the weekdays, if you can

All of these parks are situated along the Meramec River which is prone to over flowing it's banks in the springtime. Check with www.mostateparks.com for up to date information concerning closures or for information on any of the parks.

mostateparks.com