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Missouri State Parks COVID-19 Response

Updated 8/3/2021

Thank you for your continued support of Missouri State Parks.

Please be proactive in protecting yourself and others

When visiting a Missouri state park or historic site, visitors are strongly encouraged to follow social-distancing guidelines and be proactive in protecting themselves. Come prepared with hand sanitizer and bottled water, avoid large and congested crowds, and please stay home if sick.

Face coverings are encouraged in indoor spaces or where social-distancing measures are difficult to maintain, and may be required by local orders. 

For more information, visit: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/fully-vaccinated.html

Come prepared and know before you go

Whether exploring trails by foot or by bike, physical activity is beneficial for both physical and mental health. Outdoor spaces are well-suited to increased social distance, and fresh air is a great way to calm your mind. But, we must remain diligent in taking steps to make your visit as safe and enjoyable as possible:

  • If you or someone in your household feels ill or may have been exposed to someone who is ill, stay home and contact your health care provider.
  • If you visit, be sure to pack water, extra soap and/or hand sanitizer. Due to limited services, water, soap or sanitizer may not always be available.
  • Practice social distancing and avoid large groups.​

Please Recreate Responsibly

Missouri state parks are experiencing high traffic, so please come aware and prepared to share the outdoors with others. If the park looks full, it probably is. One of the amazing things about Missouri is the number of parks and outdoor spaces we have available. If the park you intended on visiting is overcrowded, you can find another park near you at https://mostateparks.com/find-a-park.

When you recreate, consider the following tips:

  • Share the trail and yield to others to maintain a safe distance. Be respectful and kind to others.
  • Choose less frequented parks and trails. Do not park in a crowded parking lot or use a crowded trail. If the park looks or is full, pick another park. We have Missouri State Parks in every direction. Find a park near by visiting www.mostateparks.com.
  • Keep your dog on a leash. Treat your dog as a family member by keeping them distanced from others and other dogs. Clean up after your pet.
  • Follow the nine Leave No Trace Principles when visiting a state park or historic site. 
  • Always know before you go by checking the Park and Site Status Map for any temporary closures that may impact your visit. 

In addition to the tips mentioned above, please be respectful of our great cultural and natural resources by following the established park rules. Be safe and stay healthy!