Missouri State Parks


  • A collage of photographs. In the middle of the collage is a logo that says "MoDNR Photo Contest"

    The 2025 MoDNR Photo Contest

    This year marked the twelfth year of the MoDNR Photo Contest and the 410 entries we received didn’t disappoint. The…

  • Large covered bridge is towed down a road by a single cab semi-truck.

    Bridge Over Troubled Waters

    Missouri State Parks was at risk of losing Locust Creek Covered Bridge forever and desperately needed a miracle. To save…

  • Small wooden structures hold square targets going back incrementally toward a wooded area.

    Bullseye!

    Cuivre River State Park, located in Troy, has expanded its recreational offerings with a new, state-of-the-art archery range.

  • Brick building stands along the side of a gravel trail and a roadway marked "Welcome Center".

    Transforming Treloar

    Built in 1896, the Treloar Mercantile capitalized on the brand new MKT Depot in town. This historic, two-story brick building…

  • 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…

  • 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…

  • 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.…

  • 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…

  • 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,…

  • 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…

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