One of my all-time favorite places to to take family and friends is Elephant Rocks State Park.
It's located in Belleview, Mo. which is 100 miles from the city of St. Louis (Give or take). The ride is hilly at times and showcases middle America like a postcard. We even came upon a yard sale out in the middle of nowhere!
The parking is free and there are picnic tables for when you arrive. The last time I was there you could find a local gas station not too far down the road.
Bathrooms are available.
Bring a first aid kit just in case you scrape a knee.
In the opposite direction, 16.5 miles away (according to mapquest), you will find the famed Johnson Shut-In's State Park. Because of their close proximity I recommend seeing them both in one day. You start out driving into the Elephant Rocks and do your hiking for the day; get yourselves all sweaty so you are ready for the water at the Shut-Ins.
Bring some drinking water because you will get thirsty. Wear sunscreen, take lots of pictures and don't fall off!
See some highlights.
"Nature will always find a way."
Makes me want to walk right through the middle.
Mi familia!
Rocks from this quarry were used to pave the streets of downtown St. Louis.
Hide n Go Seek in the rocks!
