Latest Stories


  • Two people walk along a concrete path through a wooded area. The trees are changing to their fall foliage.

    Walking Together

    Spirit Trail has been a decades-long trail project in Johnson County, and its further development may continue for generations. Thirty years ago, Warrensburg residents and Whiteman Air Force Base personnel had a shared interest in a…

  • Construction workers gathered around a large back-hoe digging a hole.

    Projects in the Parks

    Every year, Missouri State Parks plans and manages numerous capital improvement projects at state parks and historic sites. These efforts help support our mission of preserving and interpreting the finest examples of Missouri’s natural landscapes and…

  • The silhouette of a tree stands next to a vibrant view of the milky way galaxy and a comet in the night sky.

    Protecting our Night Skies

    When the sun sets at Thousand Hills State Park on the outskirts of Kirksville, the night sky comes to life. As the blue sky darkens, it gains a sprinkling of stars, planets and galaxies. Visitors can…

  • Man with a fishing vest and pole stands in front of a river smiling at the camera

    Gear Up for Fly Fishing

    Justin Beyer still considers himself a newbie in his journey as a fly fisherman. He shares tips for building a fishing kit based on things he wishes he knew when he first started.

  • View of a Dam with flowing water.

    Big Wheel Keeps on Turnin’

    Missouri is blessed with abundant water resources, but how do its various hydropower facilities cope when impacted by significant drought conditions?

  • Photo of people walking along a path in a cave.

    Let There be Light!

    The Missouri State Parks team flipped the switch at Onondaga Cave State Park for a much-awaited reopening of the cave, which had been closed due the installation of a new LED lighting system. The previous cave…

  • Photo of a vehicle being charged at a charging station.

    Making Connections

    Missouri’s award-winning state parks are known for their inspiring beauty, remarkable history and second-to-none amenities. Now, two Missouri state parks are notable for providing visitors with charging stations to top off their electric vehicle batteries.

Graphic: MoDNR photo contest logo and text that says, "enter starting April 1." The graphic links to a webpage with details about the contest.