National Parks in Missouri
14 NPS units in Missouri — complete visitor guides with fees, hours, hiking, camping, and seasonal tips.
Visiting National Parks in Missouri
Missouri is home to 14 units managed by the National Park Service, ranging from 1 full national parks to historic sites, monuments, and recreation areas. Whether you're planning a weekend road trip or a multi-week adventure, Missouri's national parks offer some of the most spectacular scenery in the United States.
Before your visit, make sure to check current entrance fees, operating hours, and any active alerts — all updated daily on each park's page. The America the Beautiful Annual Pass ($80) covers entrance to all NPS units and is highly recommended if you plan to visit multiple parks in Missouri.
National Parks in Missouri
Other NPS Units in Missouri
Butterfield Overland
National Historic Trail
In 1857, businessman and transportation entrepreneur John Butterfield was awarded a contract…
California
National Historic Trail
Follow in the footsteps of over 250,000 emigrants who traveled to the…
George Washington Carver
National Monument
The young child known as the "Plant Doctor" tended his secret garden…
Harry S Truman
National Historic Site
President Harry S Truman took America from its traditional isolationism into the…
Lewis & Clark
National Historic Trail
The Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail winds nearly 4,900 miles through…
Oregon
National Historic Trail
Imagine yourself an emigrant headed for Oregon: would promises of lush farmlands…
Ozark
National Scenic Riverways
Ozark National Scenic Riverways is the first national park area to protect…
Pony Express
National Historic Trail
It is hard to believe that young men once rode horses to…
Santa Fe
National Historic Trail
You can almost hear the whoops and cries of "All's set!" as…
Ste. Geneviève
National Historical Park
Established by 1750, Ste. Geneviève was the first permanent European settlement in…
Trail Of Tears
National Historic Trail
Remember and commemorate the survival of the Cherokee people, forcefully removed from…
Ulysses S Grant
National Historic Site
Ulysses S. Grant is known as the victorious Civil War general who…
Wilson's Creek
National Battlefield
Wilson's Creek was the first major Civil War battle fought west of…
Planning Your Missouri National Park Trip
- →Best time to visit: Shoulder seasons (May and September) offer the best combination of good weather, open facilities, and manageable crowds across Missouri's parks.
- →America the Beautiful Pass: At $80/year, this annual pass covers entrance to all 14+ NPS units in Missouri and all other NPS units nationwide.
- →Book early: Lodging and campsite reservations at popular parks fill up months in advance. Plan and book as early as possible, especially for summer visits.
- →Check alerts: Road closures, fire restrictions, and seasonal closures can affect your plans. Check each park's page for current alerts before you go.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many national parks are in Missouri?
Missouri has 1 designated national parks and 14 total NPS-managed units, including monuments, recreation areas, and historic sites.
What is the best national park to visit in Missouri?
The best park depends on your interests. Gateway Arch is one of the most popular options. Browse the parks above to find the one that matches your travel style.
Do I need a pass to visit national parks in Missouri?
Most NPS units in Missouri charge an entrance fee. The America the Beautiful Annual Pass ($80) covers entrance to all of them and is great value if you plan to visit more than 2-3 parks.
About the Author
James R. Mitchell
Founder & Lead Writer — National Park Data
James has visited all 63 designated US national parks and has been writing about outdoor travel for over 12 years. He spent 8 years as a wilderness guide in the Rocky Mountains before founding National Park Data to help visitors plan better, safer, and more enjoyable park trips.