On the hunt for a fun way to spend the day that the whole family will love? Or, maybe you’re searching for a way to relax, alone, among nature? The good news is you don’t have to drop a ton of cash to fill your day with fun and exciting activities. Just plan a trip to this Missouri state park that has a little bit of everything — from a breathtaking cave to refreshing swimming holes.
Gas up the car, pack your hiking and swimming gear and set the GPS for Onondaga State Park in Leasburg, a 1,317-acre park that’s bursting with…
Trip Advisor/brogers276
…natural beauty and things to do. Start your visit at Onondaga Cave, a National Natural Landmark that will take your breath away.
Trip Advisor/management
Admission is required for the tour that will take you underground to explore active flowstones, stalagmites, and stalactites.
Trip Advisor/management
Or, if you prefer remaining above ground (and even if you don’t), trek to Vilander Bluff Natural Area (pictured below) where you’ll have sweeping views of the Meramec River.
Wikimedia Commons/Kbh3rd
Of course, after a visit to the cave and natural area, you’ll still have plenty to explore. How about hitting one of the trails for a picturesque hike?
Trip Advisor/ Jarsolav Necas
The sprawling state park boasts nearly nine miles of trails, such as the 2.25-mile Deer Run Trail that’s estimated to take a little over an hour and a half to complete.
Flickr/Jeffrey Grandy
Then, again, if you’re visiting on a hot day, slip into one of the swimming holes to cool off. The park also offers boating, canoeing, fishing, and biking.
Trip Advisor/stjohnbeachlover
And, if you’re not ready for your outdoor adventure to end, why not camp out? Park your RV. Pitch a tent, or opt for a primitive backpacking campsite. (However, you must reserve a camping spot ahead of time.)
Flickr/IIP Photo Archive
Address: 9136, 7556 Highway H, Leasburg, MO 65535
FourSquare/tow-resa Click here for the Missouri State Parks website. Or, go here for Facebook.
What is your favorite state park in Missouri? Let us know in the comments! Then, click here to read about 10 lesser-known Missouri state parks that will absolutely amaze you.
Trip Advisor/brogers276
Trip Advisor/management
Wikimedia Commons/Kbh3rd
Trip Advisor/ Jarsolav Necas
Flickr/Jeffrey Grandy
Trip Advisor/stjohnbeachlover
Flickr/IIP Photo Archive
FourSquare/tow-resa
Click here for the Missouri State Parks website. Or, go here for Facebook.
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