Updated Jul 6, 2023

7 Amazing State Parks Around Kansas City That Will Blow You Away

Discover the best state parks near Kansas City for hiking, horseback riding, and enjoying nature.

Updated Jul 6, 2023

Written by

Updated Jul 23, 2023

7 Under-Appreciated State Parks Near Kansas City You’re Sure To Love

Discover seven under-appreciated state parks near Kansas City that offer unique outdoor experiences and historical value.

Updated Jul 23, 2023

Written by

Clarisa

No matter the time of year, state parks in Missouri are always great places to visit. Unfortunately, several of the state parks near Kansas City aren't beloved by those who frequent them. Instead, they're often overlooked in favor of more popular places like Parkville Nature Sanctuary where there are waterfalls and all sorts of extra activities. Step outside the city for a while and consider spending a weekend at one of the following seven under-appreciated state parks near Kansas City. These state parks in MO are great destinations for anyone who loves the outdoors, and we suggest adding them to your bucket list.

1. Watkins Woolen Mill State Park — Lawson, Missouri

alt — Watkins Woolen Mill State Park and State Historic Site/Facebook

This amazing MO state park offers less of the "wildlife retreat" you'll find in other places and more of a historical value. There are plenty of places to camp out and enjoy the wildlife, but don't forget about the preserved woolen mill here, too.

2. Hillsdale State Park — Paola, Kansas

alt — Hillsdale State Park - Kansas Wildlife, Parks, and Tourism/Facebook

Hillsdale State Park has a beautiful reservoir to enjoy during warmer months. The park also has more than 12,000 acres of wildlife area to explore, so take your time.

3. Lewis and Clark State Park — Rushville, Missouri

The Lewis and Clark River is a notable location mentioned in their journals, so Missouri has dedicated this area as a state park in their honor. It's a great place to watch the water birds play and to have a picnic with family.

4. Weston Bend State Park — Weston, Missouri

Weston Bend is one of the best state parks near me for hiking. The trees and moss make it look like you've entered a storybook forest.

5. Wallace State Park — Cameron, Missouri

Wallace State Park is often overlooked, but it has a lot to offer. Other than the standard park features, there's also a walking bridge that makes viewing it so much easier than navigating a dirt path.

6. Clinton State Park — Lawrence, Kansas

Clinton State Park is a great spot for fun during the warmer months. You can camp, boat, fish, and even rent a cabin if you'd rather stay in something sturdier than a tent. Plus, sunsets here are always stunning.

7. Knob Noster State Park — Knob Noster, Missouri

Knob Noster is a great place, and their state park isn't an exception. There are plenty of trails, campgrounds, woodlands, and even a creek.

Have you ever visited any of these state parks near Kansas City? If so, please feel free to share your experiences with us in the comments below.

To further explore the outdoors, there are plenty of hiking trails near Kansas City. You'll especially love the Blue River Parkway and Minor Park Trail.

For information about more fun hikes near Kansas City, be sure to sign up for AllTrails Plus. If you do decide to go hiking, don't forget to bring a water bottle to stay hydrated.

Nature|National & State Parks

Published Jan 7, 2018

If You Live In Kansas City, You Must Visit This Amazing State Park

Weston Bend State Park offers a peaceful escape into nature with over 1,000 acres and 10 hiking trails near Kansas City.

Published Jan 7, 2018

Written by

Clarisa

Do you ever get a little tired of the noise of the city? Do you ever want to get away from it all, even for a little while? This state park near Kansas City is the perfect getaway from all the hustle and bustle we're accustomed to. Give your ears a break and take a well-deserved escape into nature, even if it's just for a couple of hours!

Weston Bend State Park is a great place to explore the beautiful outdoors without driving across the state to get there.

There are over 1,000 acres of park land and 10 different hiking trails to choose from while you're here.

Though many wait for summer to get out and hike, we think this park is stunning any time of year. As long as you have the right equipment, you can hike in snow!

Just make sure you're following the trail carefully, and you're in the clear.

Spring and autumn make this state park come to life, with colors everywhere and the sounds of nature filling your ears.

Of course, listening to crunchy leaves and spotting the occasional deer or fox is my favorite part.

There's even an old barn where they used to store tobacco from the harvest - and you can rent out the beautiful venue for special events!

Nearby Weston, Missouri got its start with tobacco farming and trade. There are five barns total, but only one is usable at this time.

There are both basic and electric campsites where you can stay longer than a day if you fall in love with the place.

Several of the trails are paved, making for easy access for those of us who want an easier walk or travel on wheels instead.

And who wouldn't fall in love with this natural paradise? Just watching the sunset over the water is enough to make me want to go hiking today!

Add Weston Bend State Park to your bucket list this year, and pick your favorite season to explore this amazing area.

Head on out to 16600 Missouri 45, Weston, Missouri. Here's a handy map to help you find the park. Happy trails!

If this state park gets you in the mood to travel, you should definitely add it to your 2018 Kansas City bucket list.

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7 Amazing State Parks Around Kansas City That Will Blow You Away

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