MO-Meramec+State+Park


 * =Birding in Missouri=

Franklin County
=Meramec State Park= 115 Meramec Park Drive Sullivan, Missouri 63080 Meramec State Park Website Meramec State Park Map

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Meramec SP
Coordinates: 38.2139168, -91.1124184 eBird links: Hotspot map View details Recent visits My eBird links: Location life list Submit data

Tips on birding Meramec State Park
From Audubon Society of Missouri Birder's Guide

About Meramec State Park
The Meramec River flows by and majestic bluffs, dramatic caves and well groomed trails surround visitors at Meramec State Park. Swim, raft or boat on the Meramec, or explore the park on one of its hiking trails. The park’s visitor center offers a large aquarium that shows the diversity of aquatic life found at the park.

The pristine beauty of the Meramec River and its surrounding bluffs, caves and forests were recognized as supreme natural treasures very early in the state park system. As early as 1926, land was being purchased to create what is now Meramec State Park.

In 1933, the craftsmen of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) began constructing trails, picnic shelters and other facilities at the park. Nine years of CCC work left Meramec State Park with a collection of comfortable facilities that blend into the rugged landscape with their rustic design.

The park's natural heritage is as rich as its abundant cultural heritage. Several miles of picturesque riverbank scenery are preserved in the park, providing a haven for river wildlife and recreation. Hidden within the park's expansive forest are several springs and more than 40 caves.

Naturalist-led tours of Fisher Cave, offered on a seasonal basis, provide an interesting adventure for park visitors. From the low, narrow streamside passages to the huge rooms filled with calcite deposits, Fisher Cave offers one outstanding cave scene after another. Inside these rooms and passages are well-preserved bear claw marks, cave wildlife and a vast array of calcite deposits ranging from intricate hellectites to massive columns 30 feet tall.

The 461-acre Meramec Upland Forest Natural Area features glades, caves, sinkholes and wet meadows. Rare plants, rare animals and rare opportunities for solitude are just a few of the reasons to explore this remote area of the park. Nature discovery programs are provided on a regular schedule at the outdoor amphitheater.

Water recreation opportunities are abundant at Meramec State Park. Float down the river in a canoe or raft and enjoy the scenery along the way. Weekday floats offer substantially more solitude than weekends. Canoe and raft rental is available in the park's store and includes shuttle transportation, paddles and life jackets. People swim in the Meramec River at their own risk. Fishermen can cast their lines into the river, which contains the greatest variety of aquatic life in Missouri.

For a closer glimpse of the scenic Meramec River valley, hiking trails wind throughout the wooded areas, past cave entrances and along the river. Eight primitive backpacking campsites are located along Wilderness Trail. Numerous shaded picnic tables and pavilions provide a great place to hold family gatherings, eat lunch or just rest.

For overnight visitors, camping opportunities vary from remote primitive backpack sites to recreational vehicle sites with sewer, water and electric connections. Hot showers, modern restrooms, a coin-operated laundry and a sanitary dump station are available to all campers. Cabins scattered across the hillside overlooking the valley are heated and air-conditioned and come complete with linens, cooking utensils and dishes. Guest accommodations also include a motel and a conference center. Lodging rental is coordinated at the park store that also has picnic supplies, toiletries, tackle, souvenirs and firewood.

Dining at the park's rustic dining lodge is popular with many guests. The scenic view from its patio is among the best in the park. Group and banquet dining arrangements are also available. Hours vary by season.

Located near the park entrance is the visitor center. Here, guests will find additional literature, exhibits and a slide show to obtain an overview of the park's natural, cultural and recreational resources. Many of the center's exhibits focus on the Meramec River. Large aquariums display the amazing variety of aquatic life found in the river from a closeness that one otherwise might not experience. The exhibit also includes a life-size riverbank diorama. From Meramec State Park Website



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media type="custom" key="27024702" || L269176 US US-MO US-MO-071 38.2139168 -91.1124184 Meramec SP