Things To Do In The St. Louis Area – Your Outdoor Adventure Guide
When you think of St. Louis, the soaring Gateway Arch and bustling city life probably come to mind. It’s a fantastic urban hub, but what if I told you the real gateway leads to a world of rugged bluffs, spring-fed rivers, and serene forests, all just a short drive away?
I promise to show you that the best things to do in the St. Louis area for an outdoor enthusiast aren’t found on a downtown map. We’re going to uncover the trails, waterways, and campsites that will completely change how you see the Gateway to the West, turning it into your next adventure basecamp.
In this guide, we’ll walk through the top hiking and backpacking spots, the best rivers for a peaceful float trip, where to set up your tent or RV for the night, and some truly unique geological wonders you won’t want to miss. Let’s get you geared up and ready to explore.
Unmissable Hiking & Backpacking Trails Near St. Louis
Forget the pavement for a while. The rolling hills of the Missouri Ozarks offer some of the most rewarding trail systems in the Midwest. This is a core part of any outdoor-focused Things to do in the St. Louis Area guide.
Castlewood State Park: Riverside Bluffs and Challenging Climbs
Just 30 minutes from downtown, Castlewood is the perfect escape when you need a quick dose of nature. The park hugs the Meramec River, offering trails that range from flat riverside strolls to heart-pumping climbs up limestone bluffs.
The River Scene Trail is a local favorite. It’s a 3.25-mile loop that rewards you with stunning, panoramic views from the clifftops. Be prepared for some steep, rocky sections. I never hit these trails without a pair of sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support, like the Keen Targhee III, and a small daypack with at least two liters of water.
Pere Marquette State Park: Panoramic Views of the Illinois River
Head across the river into Illinois for some of the best views in the region, especially during the fall foliage season. Pere Marquette State Park boasts about 12 miles of trails that wind through forests and up to scenic overlooks of the Illinois River valley.
For a moderate challenge, take the Goat Cliff Trail. It’s a bit rugged but the payoff is an incredible vista. Before you go, always check trail conditions on the park’s official website or an app like AllTrails, as rain can make some of these paths slick and treacherous.
Hawn State Park: Whispering Pines and Sandstone Canyons
If you’re looking for true solitude and a more primitive hiking experience, make the 90-minute drive south to Hawn State Park. The landscape here is dramatically different, filled with towering shortleaf pines, sandstone canyons, and crystal-clear creeks.
The 9.5-mile Whispering Pines Trail is one of Missouri’s premier backpacking loops. It’s a fantastic place to test your gear and skills on an overnight trip. The benefits of exploring a place like Hawn are immense; you’ll feel a world away from everything. Just remember to pack a reliable water filter, like a Sawyer Squeeze, to treat water from Pickle Creek.
Paddling Adventures: Kayaking, Canoeing, and Floating the Ozark Rivers
Floating is a quintessential Missouri pastime. The state is blessed with dozens of spring-fed rivers that offer clear, cool water perfect for a day on a kayak, canoe, or inner tube. Learning how to float trip is one of the best things to do in the St. Louis Area.
The Meramec River: A Classic Missouri Float
The Meramec is one of the most accessible and popular floating rivers near St. Louis. Its gentle current makes it ideal for beginners and families. Numerous outfitters dot the riverbanks, offering canoe, raft, and kayak rentals, as well as shuttle services.
Your essential gear list for a day on the Meramec includes a well-fitting PFD (Personal Flotation Device), ample sunscreen, and a dry bag to protect your keys, phone, and wallet. A Sea to Summit Big River Dry Bag is a reliable choice that will last you for years.
The Current and Jacks Fork Rivers: America’s First National Scenic Riverways
For a truly special experience, head down to the Ozark National Scenic Riverways. The Current and Jacks Fork rivers are federally protected and offer some of the most pristine water and stunning scenery in the country. Think turquoise springs, sheer bluffs, and hidden caves.
This area is perfect for multi-day float trips, with numerous gravel bars that are open for primitive camping. This is where eco-friendly Things to do in the St. Louis Area practices become critical. Follow all Leave No Trace principles, especially packing out every single piece of trash and properly disposing of human waste far from the water.
Paddling Safety Best Practices
Rivers can be unpredictable. Before you launch, always follow these best practices:
- Check Water Levels: Check the USGS water data website before you go. High, fast water is dangerous for inexperienced paddlers.
- File a Float Plan: Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to be back.
- Wear Your PFD: It can’t save you if you don’t wear it. Make it a non-negotiable rule.
- Watch for “Strainers”: These are fallen trees or logjams in the water. They are incredibly dangerous and should be given a wide berth.
Your Complete Things to do in the St. Louis Area Camping Guide
Whether you’re in a 40-foot RV or a one-person backpacking tent, you’ll find a perfect spot to call home for the night. This Things to do in the St. Louis Area guide will help you find your spot.
RV & Campervan Havens
Missouri State Parks offer excellent campgrounds with amenities like electric hookups, dump stations, and shower houses. Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park and Meramec State Park are fantastic options with spacious, reservable sites.
One of the common problems with RV camping is finding a level spot. Always carry a set of leveling blocks, like the Camco FasTen Leveling Blocks, to ensure a comfortable and safe setup. Book your campsites well in advance, especially for summer weekends, as they fill up fast.
Tent Camping & Dispersed Camping
For a more rustic experience, Hawn State Park offers beautiful, secluded walk-in campsites nestled among the pines. You’ll have to carry your gear a short distance from your car, but the peace and quiet are worth it.
If you truly want to get away from it all, head to the surrounding Mark Twain National Forest. Here, you can find designated primitive sites or engage in dispersed camping, which means you can camp for free in general forest areas outside of developed campgrounds. This requires total self-sufficiency—you must pack out everything you pack in and have a plan for water and waste.
Essential Gear for Missouri Camping
The Missouri climate demands a few specific pieces of gear. Don’t leave home without them:
- Insect Repellent: Ticks and chiggers are no joke here. Treat your outer clothing with permethrin before your trip and use a picaridin-based spray on your skin.
- A Good Rainfly: Pop-up thunderstorms are common. Ensure your tent has a full-coverage rainfly and that its seams are properly sealed.
- Moisture-Wicking Clothing: Humidity can be oppressive. Avoid cotton and opt for merino wool or synthetic fabrics to stay dry and comfortable.
Exploring Unique Geological Wonders and Natural Areas
Beyond the typical parks, the St. Louis region is home to some truly bizarre and beautiful natural formations. These spots offer a different kind of adventure and are perfect for a day trip.
Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park: A Natural Waterpark
This is one of the crown jewels of the Missouri State Park system. Over a billion years, the Black River has carved a series of chutes, pools, and waterfalls through ancient volcanic rock. It’s a natural waterpark where you can swim and explore for hours.
Safety is paramount here. The rocks are incredibly slippery when wet. A good pair of closed-toe water shoes with a grippy sole is mandatory. Also, be aware that water levels can rise dangerously fast after a heavy rain upstream.
Elephant Rocks State Park: A Playground of Granite Boulders
Imagine a train of circus elephants frozen in time—that’s what these giant pink granite boulders look like. Kids and adults alike will love scrambling over these billion-year-old behemoths. The park also features a one-mile paved Braille Trail, making it one of the most accessible and sustainable Things to do in the St. Louis Area for visitors of all abilities.
Onondaga Cave State Park: Journey Beneath the Ozarks
When the summer heat is too much or a thunderstorm ruins your plans, head underground. Onondaga Cave is a National Natural Landmark and offers stunning guided tours of its active flowstones, towering stalagmites, and delicate soda straws. It’s a fascinating look at the fragile world beneath our feet and a great lesson in conservation.
Pro Tips for Sustainable & Safe Exploration in the St. Louis Area
Being a smart and responsible adventurer means protecting the places we love and protecting ourselves. These are the best practices for Things to do in the St. Louis Area.
Mastering Leave No Trace Principles
The seven principles of Leave No Trace are your code of conduct in the outdoors. This goes beyond just packing out your trash. It means respecting wildlife from a distance, minimizing campfire impacts by using existing fire rings, and being considerate of other visitors by keeping noise levels down.
Navigating Missouri’s Unpredictable Weather
Missouri weather can change in an instant. Always check the forecast from a reliable source like NOAA before you leave. Dress in layers you can add or remove easily. Even on a sunny summer day, pack a lightweight rain jacket, like the Marmot PreCip Eco, for those unexpected downpours.
Wildlife Awareness: Ticks, Chiggers, and Beyond
This is a critical part of any Things to do in the St. Louis Area care guide. Ticks are the biggest health hazard for outdoor enthusiasts in Missouri. After every single hike or camping trip, perform a thorough tick check on yourself, your kids, and your pets. Pay close attention to your hairline, armpits, and the backs of your knees. Know how to properly remove a tick with a pair of fine-tipped tweezers.
Frequently Asked Questions About Things to do in the St. Louis Area
What’s the best time of year for outdoor activities near St. Louis?
Fall (September to November) is arguably the best. The temperatures are cool, the humidity drops, the bugs are less active, and the fall foliage is spectacular. Summer is perfect for river floats, while spring offers beautiful wildflowers and flowing waterfalls.
Are there many free outdoor activities in the St. Louis area?
Absolutely. Day-use entry to all Missouri State Parks is free. You can hike, picnic, and explore to your heart’s content without paying a cent. Hiking and dispersed camping in the Mark Twain National Forest are also free of charge.
How can I find out about trail conditions before I go?
Your best bet is to call the park’s visitor center or ranger station directly for the most up-to-date information. The Missouri State Parks website often posts alerts, and apps like AllTrails can be helpful for recent user reviews on trail conditions.
What is the biggest safety concern for hiking near St. Louis?
The two biggest concerns are ticks and heat-related illness in the summer. Always use insect repellent and do tick checks. For summer hiking, start early in the morning, carry more water than you think you’ll need, and know the signs of heat exhaustion.
St. Louis is so much more than an arch. It’s a launchpad into a world of adventure that’s accessible, rewarding, and waiting for you to explore. It offers a rich landscape for building real outdoor skills, from your first float trip to your first backpacking overnighter.
So pack your gear, check your map, and get ready to discover the wild side of the Gateway City. The trails are waiting.
Stay safe and explore confidently!
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