Top 10 State Parks in Missouri

It’s difficult to say definitively which are the top 10 Missouri state parks, as different parks may be more appealing to different people depending on their interests and preferences. However, here is a list of some popular Missouri state parks that are highly rated by visitors:

1. Ha Ha Tonka State Park: Located in central Missouri, this park features a castle ruin, natural bridges, and a large spring-fed lake, making it a popular destination for hiking, picnicking, and fishing.
2. Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum State Historic Site: This state park in Hannibal, Missouri is dedicated to preserving the boyhood home of Mark Twain, a famous American writer and humorist. Visitors can tour the historic home and learn about Twain’s life and work.
3. Harry S. Truman State Park: Located in western Missouri, this park offers a variety of recreational opportunities, including hiking, fishing, and boating, as well as a beautiful lake and wooded areas.
4. Castlewood State Park: This state park in the St. Louis area features scenic trails, a lake, and a historic dam, making it a popular destination for hiking, fishing, and picnicking.
5. Mark Twain State Park: Located in eastern Missouri, this park is named after the famous American writer and features a lake, hiking trails, and a variety of recreational facilities.
6. Finger Lakes State Park: Located in central Missouri, this park is known for its picturesque lakes and offers a variety of recreational opportunities, including camping, hiking, and fishing.
7. Onondaga Cave State Park: This state park in eastern Missouri features a beautiful cave system and a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities, including hiking, picnicking, and fishing.
8. Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park: Located in eastern Missouri, this park is known for its rugged terrain and offers a variety of recreational opportunities, including hiking, rock climbing, and swimming in the park’s natural pools.
9. St. Francois State Park: Located in eastern Missouri, this park features a beautiful lake and a variety of recreational facilities, including campsites, cabins, and a marina.
10. Elephant Rocks State Park: Located in southeastern Missouri, this park is known for its unique rock formations and offers a variety of recreational opportunities, including hiking and picnicking.

Again, this is just a small sample of the many state parks in Missouri, and there are many other parks that may be just as popular with different visitors.

Missouri’s Parks -38 State Parks

 • 7 State Forests

 • 7 State Historic Sites

State Natural Area

 • 12 State Wildlife Areas

 • 6 State Wildlife Management Areas

State Wildlife Refuge

 • National Forest

 • 2 National Historic Sites

5 National Wildlife Refuges

 • 3 Metro and City Parks