Here’s a list of my favorite state parks in Missouri to help you choose your next outdoor adventure!

Missouri is home to 93 state parks and historic sites that cover over 150,00 acres of natural landscape, including forests, lakes, rivers, and caves. This list just scratches the surface of all of the ways to experience Missouri’s diverse landscape, natural beauty, or the state’s history. 

As we embark on this journey together, I plan to revisit this list and develop more detailed reviews of each park and campground we visit so that you know exactly what we loved and learned from our experiences!

Being based in central Missouri means you are often equally close to and far away from just about anywhere. As a result, my favorite state parks (so far) also happen to be those with dedicated campgrounds that allow us to make a weekend out of the visit. 

Which leads me into our honorable mention, and only state park on the list without a dedicated campground.

Honorable Mention: Ha Ha Tonka State Park

From the ruins of a stone castle, you’ll have stunning views of the Lake of the Ozarks and Ha Ha Tonka Spring. 

5. Lake of the Ozarks State Park

Lake of the Ozarks State Park- and the Lake of the Ozarks in general- is unique in the way that it offers an escape into nature while still being just minutes from plenty of shopping and dining experiences. 

Our last trip to this campground was an unexpected treat. The trees were still dormant in late March, and on our first evening, as we sat down for dinner we had an unobstructed view of a family of bald eagles hunting fish from the surface of the lake! To top off the evening, we took a quick 15-minute drive to enjoy some Andy’s Frozen Custard!

Lake of the Ozarks State Park, Lake Ozark, MO. Photo by Marina Gonzales 

4. Mark Twain State Park

Mark Twain State Park was a delight and offered many of the same perks of Lake of the Ozarks, but without the nearby hustle and bustle. 

Mark Twain Lake is surrounded by towering bluffs and large forests of oak, hickory, and maple trees. This  park features excellent water access, numerous hiking trails through the forests and along the bluffs, and the nearby Mark Twain Birthplace State Historic Site.

Maybe we were lucky. Maybe that’s just what October is like. Or maybe everyone else was avoiding the bombardment of black walnuts dropping from the trees- but we practically had the whole campground to ourselves. The weather was stunning, the white pelicans were stopping over during their fall migration, and the sunsets over the water from the Puma campground were unmatched. 

Buzzard’s Roost, Florida, MO. Photo by Marina Gonzales

3. Onondaga State Park

Onondaga State Park offers the best of both worlds- adventure above ground and below.

Along the Meramec River, you can spend the day kayaking, casting a line from the riverbank, or exploring one of the park’s scenic hiking trails. Then, when you’re ready for a change of pace, head underground for a guided tour of Onondaga Cave, where towering stalagmites and trickling stalactites have been forming for thousands of years.

One of the best parts about touring the cave is that it is an all-weather activity. Hot or cold, rain, snow, or sunshine- Onandago Cave is a constant 57⁰ year-round. 

If you’re traveling with your dog, don’t let that stop you. Although the cave tour isn’t dog-friendly, they did offer a kenneling option on-site where your pet can safely wait while you explore underground.

Twin Domes, Ononandoga Cave State Park, Leesburg, Mo. Photo by Marina Gonzales

 2. Johnson’s Shut-In State Park

Johnson’s Shut-In State Park is one of the most popular state parks in Missouri- and for good reason! 

The Black River has carved its way through ancient volcanic rock over millions of years, creating the pools, cascades, and natural water slides that make this park so iconic.

Whether you’re climbing across the rocks, cooling off in the rushing water, or hiking one of the nearby trails, it’s impossible not to appreciate the uniqueness of this landscape.

One thing to keep in mind is that this region of the state has very little, if any, cell service. I encourage you to come prepared by downloading directions before you arrive. Then take advantage of the opportunity to put your phone away, disconnect for a little while, and soak in everything around you. If you do need to reconnect, the campground store offers free Wi-Fi- and I would be remiss if I didn’t recommend treating yourself to a couple of scoops of ice cream while you’re there! 

Johnson’s Shut-Ins, Middle Brook, MO. Photo by Marina Gonzales. 

1.Bennett Springs State Park 

There is a quiet kind of magic in standing waist-deep in the cool waters of Bennett Spring as the sun climbs above the trees. The current swirls gently around your legs, the morning air is crisp, and for a little while, the rest of the world simply fades away. 

Bennett Springs State Park is a must-visit for campers, anglers, and nature lovers alike. 

The park features three trout fishing zones, each dedicated to different styles of angling- and I have been thoroughly humbled by the trout inhabiting every one of them. 

As an angler you might be hesitant after reading that last line, but fret not. 

While popular spots like the Zone 2 Bridge are often busy- and you will probably cross lines with another angler at some point- you can still find pockets of peace along Bennett Spring at all times of the day. 

One unexpected benefit of fishing the more crowded areas is the people. I have met many anglers who were more than willing to share their hard-earned knowledge, favorite techniques, and stories from the stream.

If you don’t see your favorite Missouri State Park on this list, I’d love to hear from you! Share your favorite park, preferred season to visit, and what activities make it special! Who knows- you might inspire my next weekend adventure!

~ Mo