9 Incredible National Park Sites Within 6 Hours of St. Louis
Are you a local St. Louis resident looking to experience a National Park site? While you probably already know all about Gateway Arch National Park, did you know there are many more National Park Service sites within a half-day drive away? These sites offer amazing history, culture, and scenic landscapes. Read on to learn about several wonderful National Park sites within 6 hours of St. Louis that we have visited to add to your travel bucket list.
1. Gateway Arch National Park – St. Louis, Missouri
It may be one of the smallest national parks, but Gateway Arch National Park is also home to the nation’s tallest monument. Located right in downtown St. Louis, this park is well worth a visit to admire the stunning monument both from the ground and from taking the tram ride to the top. The park also includes the Old Courthouse which was the site of the Dred Scott trial. The courthouse reopens May 3, 2025 after an extensive renovation.
The park features 5 miles of pathways and an extensive history museum under the arch, both which can be visited for free. However, it is well worth the extra fee to ride the tram on a journey to the top of the arch for a birds-eye view. (Recommended to buy tickets online in advance.) You can combine a tram ride with a movie to learn about building the arch as well as a riverboat ride on the river.
2. Ulysses S Grant National Historic Site – St. Louis, Missouri
This historic site is a hidden gem, even for locals. Located across the road from the popular Grant’s Farm attraction, the Ulysses S Grant National Historic Site preserves the home where the Union Civil War General and 18th president once lived. This free park offers guided tours of the White Haven home, trails to walk on the grounds, and a large and interactive museum with a kids area. Another perk of this historic site is that admission and parking are completely free.
3. Ste. Genevieve National Historic Park – Ste. Genevieve, Missouri
Ste. Genevieve National Historic Park is the newest park site in Missouri. Established by 1750, Ste. Geneviève was the first permanent European settlement in Missouri. The park preserves several historic homes and structures. Visitors can explore the visitor center, tour several of the buildings, and earn junior ranger badges.
4. George Washington Carver National Monument – Joplin, Missouri
George Washington Carver National Monument is a true hidden gem near Joplin. While more off the beaten path, this is one of best national monuments we have visited. This park preserves the childhood home site of the famous scientist and artist. It was also the first national monument dedicated to an African American.
The grounds of the monument include a peaceful walking trail with points of interest and a three story museum. This impressive museum includes a discovery area that kids will love with interactive exhibits including the dozens of inventions and food items Carver created using peanuts. (I had no idea how many things he had invented!) This site is definitely a must-see Midwest National Park site.
5. Indiana Dunes National Park – Porter, Indiana
Indiana Dunes National Park preserves over 15,000 acres along the beautiful Lake Michigan shoreline of northern Indiana. This park features a diverse ecosystem of dunes, wetlands, prairies, and forests. There are more than 50 miles of hiking trails with the Dunes Succession Trail being a popular hike. The park features several beaches with West Beach offering the most amenities for families.
In addition to its natural attractions, Indiana Dunes National Park is rich in history and culture. Visitors can explore the Century of Progress Homes, a collection of historic houses that date back to the 1933-1934 Chicago World’s Fair. The Chelberg Farm Loop offers a scenic route through the park’s historic farmland and structures.
6. Lincoln Home National Historic Site – Springfield, Illinois
Lincoln Home National Historic Site preserves the Springfield, Illinois home and related historic district where Abraham Lincoln lived from 1844 to 1861. This was the only home Lincoln ever owned before becoming the 16th president of the United States. The neighborhood includes the chance to tour Lincoln’s home as well as explore several other exhibits throughout the preserved four block area.
7. Ozark Scenic Riverways – Missouri
The Ozark Scenic Riverways hold the distinguished distinction of being the first National Park site established explicitly to protect a river system. The park site preserves the crystal clear and spring-fed Current and Jack’s Fork River system. These natural spring fed rivers are very popular spots for float trips with numerous outfitters in the area. This is one of our favorite areas in the Midwest to visit due to the stunning natural beauty.
Beyond the rivers, visitors can visit historic mills such as Alley Mill. There are also numerous turquoise blue natural springs, caves, and miles of hiking trails to explore.
8. Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield – Springfield, Missouri
Wilson’s Creek is the site of the first major Civil War battle west of the Mississippi River. The park serves as a powerful memorial and educational resource, commemorating the combat that drew national attention to the conflict in Missouri. The park also features a scenic driving tour road that guides visitors through key battlefield sites and historic landmarks. Visitors can also explore the large visitor center, hiking trails, and historic structures.
9. Mammoth Cave National Park – Mammoth Cave, Kentucky
Mammoth Cave National Park is the longest cave system in the entire world. Located right at a 6 hour drive from St. Louis, this park is well worth the trip. Visitors can explore the underground world through guided cave tours that range from easy walks to challenging spelunking adventures. Our family enjoyed the Extended Historic Tour which offers a great mix of viewing various cave features.
Above ground, the park features scenic hiking and biking trails, opportunities for wildlife viewing, and kayaking on the Green River. The park also has a newly renovated lodge and restaurant, historic cabins, and a campground.
More Parks to See
While this list includes the top 9 we have visited on our travels, here are several more parks you can check out within 6 hours of St. Louis
- Harry S. Truman National Historic Site, Missouri
- New Philadelphia National Historic Site, Illinois (still under development)
- Emmett Till and Mamie Till-Mobley National Monument, Illinois
- Pullman National Monument, Illinois
- Brown vs. Board of Education National Historic Site, Kansas
- Fort Scott National Historic Site, Kansas
- Pea Ridge National Military Park, Arkansas
- Buffalo National River, Arkansas
- Herbert Hoover National Historic Site, Iowa
- George Rogers Clark National Historic Park, Indiana
- Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial, Indiana
- Fort Donelson National Battlefield, Tennessee
- Lincoln Birthplace National Historic Park, Kentucky
Why you should visit these 9 National Park Sites Near St. Louis
All of these park sites offer a mix of history, culture, hiking, and scenic views within a 6 hour drive of St. Louis. You don’t have to plan a long trip away to learn something new and check out a new viewpoint. Have you visited any of these National Park sites? Which one is your favorite?
