Food, Drinks, Pets and Containers: Food, alcohol, pets, coolers and disposable drink containers are not allowed within the shut-ins recreation area or on the trail to the shut-ins. Visitors should plan ahead and bring reusable water bottles. Pets are allowed in most other outdoor areas of the park, but owners must comply with Missouri State Parks' pet rules. Pets should not be left unattended or in vehicles.

Shut-Ins Access: The southern area of the park containing the shut-ins is considered a limited-access area. The shut-ins parking area has a 100-car capacity for day-use visitors. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, the parking lot normally reaches capacity by 10 a.m. The northern part of the day-use area remains available even when the shut-ins parking area has filled to capacity. When the river discharge reaches 75 cubic feet per second, access to the shut-ins is closed to protect visitors.

Restricted Areas: Any person found within an area signed as restricted area will receive a fine of up to $500 and be ejected from the park.

Fishing: Fishing is permitted only in waters without swimmers.