Route 66 State Park is a beautiful park located in southwest Missouri. The park was originally built as a tourist attraction, and it became one of the most popular stops on Route 66. The park features a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, biking, horseback riding, camping, fishing, and boating. They also have a playground and a visitor center which was formerly the Bridgehead Inn.
The Bridgehead Inn was a popular hotel located in the state park. It was known for its comfortable and convenient location, as well as its reasonable rates. The hotel was eventually decommissioned to give way to the visitor center the park has today.
The park is also home to several historic landmarks, including the Dewey Short Bridge and the Old Route 66 Bridge. The Dewey Short Bridge was built in 1933 and was the first bridge to cross the White River. The old Route 66 Bridge was built in 1926 and is one of the oldest bridges in Missouri.
If you’re looking for a great hiking park, this place is definitely a great option. There are a variety of trails to choose from, ranging in difficulty from easy to moderate. Here are some things to remember when hiking on any of the trails in this state park:
- Make sure to wear sunscreen and bring plenty of water. The sun can be brutal, and dehydration can set in quickly while hiking.
- Keep an eye out for snakes and spiders. The park is home to a variety of snakes and spiders, some of which are poisonous. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid touching any snakes or spiders you may come across.
- Stay on the trails. There are some thorny plants in the park, and it’s easy to get injured if you’re not paying attention.
- Be aware of your surroundings. It’s easy to get lost in the park, especially if you’re not familiar with the area. Make sure to take note of landmarks and stick to the trails. And bring a copy of the map as much as possible to know the area better.
The park also offers a variety of trails for biking and horseback riding. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, there’s a trail for you.
When biking on the trails, always be aware of your surroundings and be prepared to stop quickly. Be especially careful when going around curves and when crossing roads.
When horseback riding on the trails, always remember to yield to hikers and cyclists. Also, be sure to stay on the trails and avoid getting too close to the road.
If you’re looking for a great place to camp, look no further than this park. There are plenty of campsites to choose from, and the park is well-maintained and beautiful. However, there are a few things you’ll need to remember when camping here.
The park is quite large, so be sure to plan out your route before you arrive. Also, make sure you stock up on supplies before you come, as there aren’t many stores or restaurants in the area. And be prepared for some wildlife sightings – the park is home to deer, coyotes, and other animals.
The Meramec River is a tributary of the Mississippi River, approximately 153 miles long, in the U.S. states of Missouri and Illinois. It drains an area of 1,362 square miles (3,530 km2) in eastern Missouri and northeastern Arkansas. Via the Mississippi, it is part of the watershed of the Gulf of Mexico.
When fishing in the Meramec River in this area of the state park, remember to bring a Missouri fishing license. The park offers both bank and boat fishing, and there are several species of fish that can be caught in the river, including largemouth bass, catfish, bluegill, and crappie. There are also several outfitters located near the park who can provide you with all the necessary gear for a successful fishing trip.
Aside from that, there are a few things that you need to remember when boating in the part of the river within the state park. First, the park has many areas that are designated as no wake zones, so be sure to stay aware of those areas and adhere to them. Second, there are numerous sandbars and gravel bars in the river, so keep a lookout for them and avoid them if possible. Finally, be aware of the currents in the river and use caution when navigating through them.
As mentioned, the park also has a play area for kids. However, there are some things you need to remember when letting them play there.
As a parent, you must remember is that the playground is not supervised, so you will need to keep an eye on your kids at all times. Then, make sure your kids know how to play safely and don’t let them climb on anything they’re not supposed to.
And be aware that the park can get quite busy on weekends, and the playground can often be quite crowded. So make sure your kids know how to share and don’t get too frustrated if it takes a while to find a spot to play.
Lastly, when visiting the state park’s Visitors Center, be sure to take a look at the exhibits and learn about the history of the area. There are also helpful staff members available to answer any questions you may have. Be sure to check out the gift shop for souvenirs, and don’t forget to enjoy the scenic views while you’re there.
Overall, Route 66 State Park is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling through southwest Missouri. The park offers a variety of activities for everyone to enjoy, and the historic landmarks make it a truly unique place to visit.