Pet Rules for Prairie State Park
Due to the unique and rare diversity of life preserved at Prairie State Park, pets are not allowed on park trails, except for Path of the Earth People and Path of the Sky People. Bison graze freely in the park, and this regulation protects both you and your pet. You are welcome to bring your pet to the park's campground and picnic area, but you must follow Missouri State Parks' pet rules. This applies to all types of pets except service animals assisting people with disabilities.
For more information, please call the park office at 417-843-6711. For a complete list of closures and advisories, please visit our Park and Site Status Map.
Accessibility Information - Prairie State Park
This symbol indicates that the specified area is fully compliant with Americans with Disabilities Act Accessibility Guidelines (ADAAG).
Nature Center
The nature center offers a paved accessible space with an adjacent pathway leading to its entrance. The ramp to the entrance is an average 6.2% with a railing and is level before the doors. Inside is a spacious lobby with information and helpful staff to answer your questions. A water fountain and public restrooms with front-transfer toilets are available. The nature center has three steps, each with a 6-inch riser and two 4 feet by 7 feet landings that lead down to a lower level. This level has interpretation activities, a panoramic view of the prairie, a wonderful diorama of prairie life and a museum. The view of the prairie and the diorama may also be viewed from the upper level.
Picnic Area
The picnic area is located near a stream under shady trees. The parking lot is compacted gravel. At this time, a hardened dirt path with a steep incline leads to the tables. One site has an accessible pad. All sites have pedestal grills. The vault toilet has a paved parking pad in front of it. Some users may need assistance, as the clearance in front of the doors is only 4 feet wide. Inside, transfer bars are provided.
An information kiosk provides park brochures and information.
Camping
Four primitive campsites in a wooded area are available at this time. Two of the sites are accessible.
Nature Center Trail
If you want to get a taste of the prairie, the Nature Center Trail is located behind the Regal Tallgrass Prairie nature center. This 0.4 mile trail is relatively level with mowed prairie grass as a base. During wet weather, the ground may be too soft. Some users may need assistance.
For more information, contact the park:
Prairie State Park
128 NW 150th Lane
Mindenmines, MO 64769
417-843-6711
800-334-6946
800-379-2419 TDD
Last updated: January 2017