5 Must-See State Parks in the Show Me State
- Kristina Light
- Sep 23, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: Sep 25, 2024
By Kristina Light
Echo Bluff State Park: Glamping Cabins, Wild Horses, and Canoeing
Echo Bluff State Park located in the heart of the Mark Twain National Forest in southeastern Missouri, is the crown jewel in the state's system and our family's favorite autumn tradition. Located in Shannon County, the park is also a beloved stopping point for a herd of wild horses. Over the years, we've spotted deer, river otters, snakes, turtles, bald eagles, owls, foxes, and more native wildlife. This luxurious park is ideal for every type of camper: tent, RV, or glamper. The gorgeous Betty Lea Lodge offers hotel rooms, and the park is home to numerous modern cabins for 4-12 guests, and the site is expanding. Each cabin comes with a fully equipped kitchen, and of course, campers can prepare meals. However, the lodge also offers a restaurant if you want to take it easy. Paved trails are a favorite for my bicycling daughters. Additionally, you'll find mountain bike trails (bring your bike or rent from the park), wide open spaces, and hiking trails through the Mark Twain National Forest. The name of the park comes from the purple-gray bluffs towering above Sinking Creek. The Current River and Jack's Fork are perfect for canoeing or kayaking, with Carr's Canoe rental being our favorite outfitter. They offer curbside pick up and drop off from the state park. The site is so popular, you must book in advance to guarantee a reservation.
Nearby Attractions:
Elephant Rock State Park: A Labyrinth of Giant Red Granite Rocks
Elephant Rock State Park derives its name from the colossal red granite boulders throughout the park that resemble a herd of elephants. Located in Belleview, about ninety minutes south of St. Louis, this park is a favorite for families, hikers, and rock hounds. The giant rocks are fun to climb and explore, many are carved with the names of local 19th-century miners. A walking trail meanders around a pond and through the rocks, though some passages are quite narrow. This is a play-at-your-own risk site.
Perfect for an afternoon stop en route to another state park or destination, this is a great place for a picnic and a bit of exploring.
Sam A. Baker State Park: Rustic Cabins, Canoeing, and Equestrian Trails
Sam A. Baker State Park is the oldest park in the state with a rich and wonderful history. The park offers something for everyone with a creek and St. Francis River for fishing and canoeing, equestrian trails, hiking and biking trails, and wide open spaces to play catch. Lodging includes tent camping, RV spots, and cabins. The nature center offers exhibits on local wildlife and the history of the park. Our family loves the rustic cabins, grilling out at night, and the homemade ice cream offered at the park's general store.
Ha Ha Tonka State Park: Castle Ruins, Hiking Trails and Picnicking
The castle ruins of the Ozarks, Ha Ha Tonka State Park is the stuff of legend. The castle, built on the bluffs overlooking the Lake of the Ozarks, was the luxurious getaway for prominent Kansas City businessman, Robert McClure Snyder. He befell tragedy, dying in one of the state's first recorded automobile crashes. In October of 1942, a fire destroyed the castle, leaving the still-standing ruins behind. Visitors to the park enjoy the trails exploring the remains of the home, as well as a natural bridge, bluffs, caves, and one of the state's largest springs. Beautiful wooded trails meander through the park, though only some are accessible. This is a popular day trip destination on Ozark getaways with beautiful views year-round.
Watkins Mill State Park: Camping, Historic Mill, and a Lake
Watkins Mill State Park in Kearney, Missouri, offers a great place for family camping with both tent and RV sites available. The campground offers trails to the lake with fishing, a swim beach, and space for kayaks (bring your own). In addition to hiking and biking trails, they also offer equestrian trails. The park is named for the historic woolen mill and home on the grounds. Stop by the visitors center and tour the historic sites to learn more about the history of the mill.
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