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Big Adventure at Big Sugar Creek State Park
As much as we love Missouri’s more popular state parks such as Johnson’s Shut-Ins, Elephant Rocks, or Roaring River, sometimes its nice to venture to a quieter park. You can find this solitude at Big Sugar Creek State Park. Located in far southwest Missouri, this lovely park is big on views but low on crowds or development. About Big Sugar Creek State Park Established in 1992, Big Sugar Creek State Park has a wild feel. Do not expect well groomed…
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Rugged Adventure Awaits on the Rim Rock Recreation Trail
The Shawnee National Forest of southern Illinois is one of our top areas to explore. There are endless hiking options for all abilities. One of our favorite hikes with kids in Shawnee is the Rim Rock National Recreation Trail. This moderate hike offers a rugged, yet kid friendly adventure with scenic views and stunning sandstone formations. Rim Rock Hiking Trail Distance: 0.8 mile round trip for upper trail. 0.7 mile one one on lower trail. Difficulty: 2/5 for upper trail which…
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Explore a Prehistoric Settlement at Millstone Bluff
Millstone Bluff is a historic gem tucked within the Shawnee National Forest of southern Illinois. This archaeological site is not very well known, but worth a visit to view the remains of a prehistoric Native American village. A short and easy trail circles that site and is suitable for the whole family. History of Millstone Bluff The topography of Millstone Bluff rises 320 feet above the valley below. At the top of this mesa-like bluff, the Mississippian peoples constructed a…
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Take a Hike at Young Conservation Area
Young Conservation Area is another one of several great conservation areas in the Eureka, Missouri area. This conservation area is part of the LaBarque Creek watershed filled with diverse species of aquatic and plant life. The park contains two hiking trail loops plus creeks and a pond. Hiking Trails Young Conservation Area contains two hiking trail loops. The 3 mile Taconic Loop Trail winds along LaBarque Creek past seasonal wildflowers and through a pine tree grove. The 3.5 mile LaBarque…
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Take a Paved Path Through Nature at Meramec Conservation Area
Paved trail options at state parks and conservation areas can be limited. If you need an accessible trail, stroller friendly path, or just an easy walk, there aren’t a ton of options. However, Missouri’s Meramec Conservation Area offers just such a trail. A hidden gem near Meramec State Park, this is a fun paved nature trail to visit. Meramec Conservation Area Overview Meramec Conservation Area covers over 3,800 acres. It offers a variety of recreation including fishing, hiking, hunting, biking,…