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Cuivre River State Park is a bit of the Ozarks outside of the Ozarks – a nature lovers paradise just a short drive from St. Louis that is vibrant with colors three seasons of the year. The park’s renowned trails take visitors through prairies and forests of oaks and hickories. The park’s three natural areas feature sinkhole ponds and woodlands that would be more at home in southern Missouri. The park has hiking and equestrian trails, modern campsites, group camps, picnic areas and a lake so everyone can enjoy one of Missouri’s most rugged and beautiful jewels.
Cuivre River State Park is located in the Lincoln Hills region of northeast Missouri. The park contains many natural features normally found in southern Missouri. Visitors encounter a rich mosaic of tall grass prairies interspersed with oaks and hickories. Denser forests stand on sheltered hillsides, with open, rocky, sun-drenched glades dotting the more exposed slopes. Scattered throughout the region are caves, sinkholes and springs, as well as, rocky creeks more typical of the Ozarks.
LINCOLN HILLS NATURAL AREA
One of the largest natural areas in the entire Missouri state park system is found in Cuivre River State Park. The 1,872-acre Lincoln Hills Natural Area preserves the best remaining example of the unique landscape characteristic of the Lincoln Hills uplift. Visitors can drive through part of the area but it is best viewed by hiking one of several trails. These trails lead through a mixture of prairie, savanna, woodlands and glades, as well as, sinkholes, bluffs and streams.
Several trails lead to bluffs that give visitors a view of the river or creek and the surrounding rugged, forested hills. Backpack camping is allowed on Lone Spring, Cuivre River – north loop and Big Sugar Creek trails, which traverse the wild areas. Horses are allowed on the Cuivre River Trail, which is accessed at the equestrian campground and day-use area. Native grasslands and savannas can be explored from the Prairie and Blazing Star trails.
A visitor center displays exhibits on the area’s cultural and natural history. Park naturalists conduct nature hikes and campground evening programs. The park offers a variety of camping options, including basic, as well as, electric and full hook-up sites. In addition, a dumping station and showers are available. Lake Lincoln is located near the campground and features a swimming beach and a boat-launching area. The 55-acre lake is stocked with largemouth bass, as well as, sunfish and channel catfish. The three group camps constructed during the CCC era are available for group rental and include cabins, a dining lodge and recreation areas.
PARK HOURS & FEES
Contact Park
PARK PHONE
636-528-7247
PARK ADDRESS
678 State Route 147
Troy, MO 63379-5350
For more information click HERE.
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