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
Watkins Woolen Mill State Park and State Historic Site, 26600 Park Road North, Lawson, MO 64062, USA
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
Hillsdale State Park, Paola, KS 66071, USA
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
Lewis and Clark State Park, 801 Lakecrest Blvd, Rushville, MO 64484, USA
Show Me Missouri/Facebook
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 State Park, 16600 MO-45, Weston, MO 64098, USA
christophermoverton/Flickr
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, 10621 MO-121, Cameron, MO 64429, USA
vicki watkins/Flickr
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, 798 N 1415 Rd, Lawrence, KS 66049, USA
flickr/kansasphoto
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 State Park, 873 SE 10 Rd, Knob Noster, MO 65336, USA
Knob Noster State Park/Facebook
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.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.

More to Explore

State Parks Near Kansas City

Tori Jane | February 12, 2022

What are some of the best hiking trails near Kansas City?  

No matter which side you’re on, Kansas or Missouri, Kansas City is a great place for getting outside and enjoying the outdoors. There are a number of wonderful trails in and around the city, with plenty in state parks, local city parks, and more. According to our good friends at AllTrails.com, there are more than 50 awesome trails in and around town, and they all vary in terms of difficulty, length, and sights to see. Listed below are three of the most popular trails near Kansas City.

1. White Tail Trail
The White Tail Trail is an easy 2.6-mile trail that's located within Parkville Nature Sanctuary. It's the perfect trail for birdwatching and taking an afternoon stroll.

2. Blue River Parkway and Minor Park Trail
Located in Minor Park is the Blue River Parkway and Minor Park Trail. It's 5.6 miles long and popular among mountain bikers.

3. Hidden Valley Natural Area Loop
The Hidden Valley Natural Area Loop is 3.2 miles long and is popular for hiking, mountain biking, and running.

What are some fun things to do outside in Kansas City?

If you're wondering if there's anything fun to do outside in Kansas City, you're in luck! There are quite a few fun things to do, and we've listed three of our favorite activities below.

  • Visit one of Kansas City's beautiful parks.
  • Go hiking or biking along one of the city's scenic trails.
  • Attend one of the many festivals, art walks, etc. in Kansas City.

 

Related Articles