Recreational Trails Program (RTP) Grants
Recreational Trail Program Grants
In Missouri, RTP grants are available to local and state governments, school districts and nonprofit organizations. Missouri receives between $1 million and $1.5 million per fiscal year. The maximum amount awarded is $250,000 for trail projects. Sponsors must have a minimum 20% match. Projects must be open to the public.
Eligible Projects include:
- Restoration of existing recreational trails.
- Development and rehabilitation of trailside and trailhead facilities and trail linkages for recreational trails.
- Construction of new recreational trails (with restrictions for new trails on Federal lands).
- Acquisition of easements and property for recreational trails or recreational trail corridors.
- Assessment of trail conditions for accessibility and maintenance.
2026 RTP Grant Round
The application period for RTP Grants is now OPEN.
Grant selection process
- Review the Open Project Selection Process before filling out an application.
- Complete an electronic application by answering each question as fully as possible without exceeding the space allocated for the question. Handwritten applications will not be accepted.
- For your final application packet submittal, mail two hard copies of the application plus all supporting documents listed in the application. RTP application packets must be postmarked on or before Feb. 20, 2026. Mail application packets to: Missouri State Parks, Grants Management, RTP Planner, P.O. Box 176, Jefferson City, MO 65102-0176 or 1659 E. Elm St., Jefferson City, MO 65101.
Application Materials
Grant Application Workshop
The RTP application workshop is scheduled for Jan. 6, 2026, at 9 a.m. This virtual workshop will be presented via Webex and will last approximately two hours. This presentation will provide essential information about the RTP grant application, supporting documentation, project phasing and eligibility, and other key requirements for the current grant round.
Registration is required. To register for the workshop or to get more information, please visit our Grants Workshops page.
Past Administration Guides
Past Grant Recipients
Sign Requirements
Sign requirements include posting a sign near your trail project entrance. Signs can be ordered by calling Missouri Vocational Enterprises at 573-751-6663 or 800-392-8486.