Many of us count down the days to the first day of summer, especially when we're in the middle of a frigid Missouri winter. When summer finally rolls around, we want to take advantage of every sun-soaked moment. If you're looking for a relaxing summer destination in Missouri that's also bursting with activities, you can't go wrong with a visit to Cuivre River State Park.
Sprawled across 6,400 acres in Troy, Cuivre River State Park draws adventurers of all kinds - from those who just want to lounge on the beach to avid hikers.
The lush green grass is perfect for throwing down a blanket for a picnic. You can also spread out at one of the picnic tables or at a picnic shelter.
If cooling off is your top priority, make a beeline for the sandy beach that leads into the clear, cool water of Lake Lincoln. Swimming is only allowed in the beach area.
However, you can explore the rest of the 55-acre lake on a canoe or a kayak. The state park generally rents both, making it easy to take to the water.
With a dozen hiking trails that meander through the park, you can also head out into nature, where you'll run across...
Colorful wildflowers visited by bees and local wildlife. Biking, horseback riding, and metal detecting are also popular at the park.
Can you think of a better way to end a day at the park than with a gorgeous sunset?
The only thing that might come close is camping out overnight and watching a jaw-dropping sunrise the next morning. Cuivre River State Park offers a variety of camping options, including on an elevated tent platform.
Find a list of all of the activities on the official website of Cuivre River State Park. Or, go here for Facebook.
Have you been to Cuivre River State Park? Do you have a favorite fun summer destination in Missouri? Let us know in the comments! For another fun day at the beach, head over to Long Branch State Park in Macon.
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