Best Things To Do In St. Louis – The Ultimate Outdoor Adventure Guide
Planning a trip to St. Louis and picturing nothing but cityscapes and the soaring Gateway Arch? It’s a common assumption that many travelers make, often overlooking the rugged, wild heart of the region that lies just beyond the city limits.
We promise to guide you past the typical tourist trails and deep into the real Missouri outdoors. This isn’t your average city guide; it’s a field manual for adventurers looking to experience the bluffs, rivers, and forests that make this area an unsung destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the best things to do in St. Louis from an adventurer’s perspective. We’ll cover the top hiking and paddling spots, detail the best campgrounds for your tent or RV, and share essential tips for exploring the Midwest wilderness safely and sustainably. Let’s get you geared up for an unexpected adventure.
Beyond the Arch: Why St. Louis is an Underrated Outdoor Hub
St. Louis sits at a unique geographical crossroads. It’s where the great plains begin to crumple into the ancient Ozark Mountains and where the mighty Mississippi and Missouri rivers converge. This location makes it a surprisingly strategic basecamp for a huge variety of outdoor pursuits.
The true benefits of Best things to do in St. Louis for an outdoorsperson is the accessibility. Within a 30- to 90-minute drive, you can trade pavement for dirt trails, city noise for the sound of a flowing river, and skyscrapers for towering limestone bluffs.
The region offers four distinct seasons of adventure, from lush, green summer floats to crisp, colorful autumn hikes. It’s the perfect place to build your skills, whether you’re planning a weekend camping trip or using the city as a launchpad for a longer overlanding journey into the Ozarks.
Top Hiking and Biking Trails Near St. Louis
Forget the treadmill. The St. Louis area is packed with incredible trails that offer stunning views, challenging terrain, and a true sense of escape. Before you go, always pack the ten essentials, paying special attention to water and navigation, as humidity can be high and some trail networks can be confusing. This is our essential Best things to do in St. Louis guide for hitting the trail.
Castlewood State Park: The Local Favorite
Just a short drive from downtown, Castlewood State Park is the go-to spot for local hikers and mountain bikers. The park hugs the Meramec River, with trails that snake along the valley floor and climb steeply to the top of 250-foot bluffs.
For a rewarding challenge, tackle the River Scene Trail. It’s a 3.25-mile loop that includes a strenuous climb, but the panoramic views of the Meramec River valley from the bluffs are absolutely worth the effort. Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good grip, like a pair of Merrell Moab 3s or Salomon X Ultra 4s, as the rocky sections can be slippery.
Pere Marquette State Park: Illinois River Vistas
Head across the river into Illinois to experience Pere Marquette State Park, the largest state park in Illinois. The park is famous for its breathtaking views of the Illinois River and its confluence with the Mississippi.
The trails here are well-marked and offer various levels of difficulty. In the fall, the park becomes a spectacle of color, making it a prime destination for autumn hikes. It’s also a fantastic spot for bird watching, especially for bald eagles in the winter months.
The Katy Trail State Park: A Cross-State Journey
For cyclists and long-distance hikers, the Katy Trail is a must-do. It’s the nation’s longest developed rail-trail, built on the former corridor of the Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad. The flat, crushed-limestone path is perfect for all skill levels.
You can access the trail from several points near St. Louis, with St. Charles being a popular and historic starting point. Pack your panniers for a multi-day bikepacking trip or just enjoy a leisurely afternoon ride through scenic Missouri wine country.
Pro Tips for St. Louis Area Trails
One of the common problems with Best things to do in St. Louis trails is underestimating the local conditions. Ticks are prevalent from spring through fall, so treat your clothing with permethrin and always do a thorough tick check after your hike.
Summer humidity can be intense. Start your hikes early in the morning and carry more water than you think you’ll need. A hydration reservoir like a CamelBak or Osprey Hydraulics reservoir is ideal for staying hydrated on the move.
Paddling and Floating: Exploring Missouri’s Legendary Rivers
Missouri is famous for its “float trips”—leisurely journeys downriver in a canoe, kayak, or raft. This is a core part of the state’s outdoor culture and an incredible way to experience the landscape. Always wear a properly fitted PFD (Personal Flotation Device) and check river levels before you head out.
The Meramec River: Close and Convenient
The Meramec River is one of the longest free-flowing waterways in Missouri and offers fantastic floating opportunities close to St. Louis. Several local outfitters can rent you a canoe or kayak and provide shuttle services, making for a hassle-free day on the water.
The river is generally calm and suitable for beginners, with plenty of gravel bars where you can pull over to swim, fish, or have a picnic. This is a perfect introduction to Missouri river life.
Ozark National Scenic Riverways: A True Wilderness Escape
If you have time for a longer day trip or an overnight adventure, head south to the Ozark National Scenic Riverways. This federally protected park is home to the Current and Jacks Fork Rivers, two of the most pristine, spring-fed rivers in the country.
The water is stunningly clear and cool, flowing past sheer cliffs, caves, and lush forests. Paddling here feels like entering another world. Plan ahead, as this area is more remote and requires more self-sufficiency than floating the Meramec.
Your St. Louis Basecamp: RV Parks, Campgrounds, and Vanlife Spots
Knowing how to Best things to do in St. Louis starts with finding the right place to park your rig or pitch your tent. The region offers a good mix of options, from full-hookup RV parks to more rustic state park campgrounds.
State Park Campgrounds
Many of the best state parks for hiking also offer excellent campgrounds. Meramec State Park (not to be confused with Castlewood) has a large campground with electric hookups and modern facilities. Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park is another great option even closer to the city.
Book your sites well in advance, especially for weekend trips during the peak season from May to October. These spots are popular with locals and fill up fast.
RV-Friendly Parks
For those needing full hookups and more amenities, the St. Louis West/Historic Route 66 KOA in Eureka is a reliable choice. It provides easy access to both the city and nearby state parks like Castlewood and Route 66 State Park.
Vanlife and Dispersed Camping Notes
Finding free, dispersed camping right next to a major city is always a challenge. True boondocking spots are scarce in the immediate St. Louis area. However, if you’re willing to drive a couple of hours south, the Mark Twain National Forest opens up vast opportunities for dispersed camping along its forest service roads. Always check the Motor Vehicle Use Maps (MVUM) to ensure you’re camping in a legal spot.
A Guide to Sustainable and Eco-Friendly St. Louis Adventures
Part of being a responsible adventurer is leaving a place better than you found it. Following sustainable Best things to do in St. Louis practices ensures these natural spaces remain beautiful for generations to come. This is our essential care guide for the region.
Mastering Leave No Trace in the Midwest
The seven principles of Leave No Trace are universal, but they have specific applications here. The fragile ecosystems along riverbanks and on bluff tops are particularly sensitive.
- Pack It In, Pack It Out: This includes everything, even biodegradable items like apple cores.
- Dispose of Waste Properly: Use designated restrooms. If you must go in the woods, learn how to dig a proper cathole 6-8 inches deep and at least 200 feet from water.
- Respect Wildlife: Observe animals from a distance. Never feed them.
- Be Considerate of Other Visitors: Keep noise levels down and yield to others on the trail.
Following these eco-friendly Best things to do in St. Louis best practices helps protect the natural beauty of Missouri’s parks and waterways.
Frequently Asked Questions About Outdoor Activities in St. Louis
What is the best time of year to hike in St. Louis?
The absolute best seasons for hiking are spring and fall. The weather is mild, the humidity is lower, and you’ll be treated to either spring wildflowers or spectacular fall foliage. Summer can be very hot and humid, while winter can bring ice and cold, though it offers hikes with no bugs and clear views through the bare trees.
Are there any dangerous animals to be aware of on Missouri trails?
The primary concerns are venomous snakes (like the copperhead), ticks (which can carry diseases), and poison ivy. Stay aware of your surroundings, wear appropriate footwear, and know how to identify poison ivy. Major wildlife encounters with animals like black bears are extremely rare in the St. Louis area.
Can I find good fishing spots near St. Louis?
Absolutely. The rivers and lakes are full of bass, crappie, bluegill, and catfish. The Meramec and Missouri rivers are popular spots, and many state parks have well-stocked lakes. Always make sure you have a valid Missouri fishing license before casting a line.
Is St. Louis a good starting point for a longer overlanding trip?
Yes, it’s an excellent launchpad. From St. Louis, you have easy access to the vast network of dirt and gravel roads in the Mark Twain National Forest and the Ozark Highlands. It’s the perfect place to stock up on supplies before heading into some of the most remote and rugged terrain in the Midwest.
St. Louis is far more than an urban destination. It’s a gateway, inviting you to explore a side of the Midwest that is wild, beautiful, and waiting for adventure. By stepping off the beaten path, you’ll discover a region rich with opportunities to hike, paddle, camp, and connect with nature.
So pack your gear, double-check your maps, and get ready to see the Gateway City in a whole new light. Explore confidently, travel sustainably, and stay safe out there!
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