Meramec State Park

For an unfurgettable outdoor adventure in eastern Missouri, look no further than the Meramec State Park! Like all Missouri state parks, Meramec welcomes four-legged visitors as long as they are leashed and cleaned up after, so bring your pup along to this beautiful, 6,900-acre site!

A natural treasure located about 60 miles southwest of Saint Louis, the Meramec State Park is teeming with recreational opportunities for the whole family enjoy, and canine members don't need to worry about being left out! If your pup loves the water, they'll have a barking good time floating down the pristine Meramec River, which flows through the park. While doggos are not permitted on rafts, Fido is welcome to hop into a rented canoe with you. Relax and leave your worries behind as you and your pooch ooh and aah at the limestone bluffs and lush forests surrounding the water.

There's also plenty of fun to be had on dry land, as the state park contains over 13 miles of hiking trails for you and your adventurous pupper to tackle. Routes vary in length and range from moderate to rugged, so put on your hiking boots, leash Fido up, and let the exploring begin! For a scenic hike, check out the 1.5-mile Bluff View Trail, which weaves along the edge of two bluffs on the river.

It's hard to fit everything there is to do in Meramec in one day, so you and Fido might want to stay a night or two to make the most of your visit. The park offers a number of basic and premium campsites, all of which include access to modern restrooms, hot showers, and a dump station. If your pampered pooch is used to the finer things in life, dog-friendly cabins and motel rooms are also available for an additional fee of $15 per dog, per night.

Whatever activities you and your pup decide to try, you're definitely in for a pawtastic time at the Meramec State Park!