St. Joe State Park

For dining near St. Joe State Park, several options are available in Park Hills and surrounding areas. Riverside Grill offers a cozy atmosphere with great coffee and desserts, perfect for breakfast or lunch. The Old Mine House Bar & Grill is known for its lively atmosphere, featuring bar games and a wide selection of beers and cocktails. Brickhouse Social provides a trendy setting with live music and a variety of dining options. El Tapatio of Park Hills serves authentic Mexican cuisine, while The Factory Diner Park Hills offers classic diner fare with a cozy ambiance.

For accommodations near St. Joe State Park, Crown Pointe Lodge, BW Signature Collection in Farmington provides a comfortable stay with amenities like an indoor pool and free breakfast. Hampton Inn Farmington offers modern facilities with a 24/7 business center. Super 8 by Wyndham Farmington is a budget-friendly option with basic amenities. Holiday Inn Express & Suites Farmington features an indoor pool and modern lodging. Baymont Inn and Suites by Wyndham Farmington offers a convenient stay with a relaxed atmosphere.

St. Joe State Park offers a range of amenities to enhance visitor experiences. The park includes two campgrounds with electric and basic sites, laundry facilities, restrooms, showers, and a dump station. Picnic areas are equipped with tables and grills, and there are large shelters available for family gatherings or special events. The park also features swimming beaches with restrooms and changerooms, making it a great spot for families. Additionally, there are ample opportunities for fishing with man-powered boats and those with electric trolling motors allowed on the lakes.

St. Joe State Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The park's 2,000-acre off-road vehicle (ORV) riding area is a major draw, offering diverse terrains for all skill levels. Hiking and biking trails provide scenic routes through the woods, while equestrian trails cater to horseback riders. The four lakes within the park are stocked for fishing, with species like bass, catfish, and crappie. Swimming is also available at two designated beaches. For those interested in history, the Missouri Mines State Historic Site offers insights into the region's mining past.

St. Joe State Park offers several accessibility features. The park now provides a beach wheelchair for visitors with mobility issues, available during normal beach hours. Additionally, many of the park's facilities, including picnic areas and restrooms, are designed to be wheelchair accessible. However, the rugged terrain of some trails may pose challenges for those with mobility impairments. It's advisable to contact park staff for specific accessibility information before visiting.

Parking at St. Joe State Park is generally ample, with designated areas for campers and day visitors. The ORV riding area has a large staging area and parking lot for off-road vehicles and trailers. For those accessing the park's trails or lakes, parking is conveniently located near the trailheads and picnic areas. While there are no specific parking fees mentioned, it's important to follow park regulations regarding vehicle and trailer sizes to ensure a smooth visit.

St. Joe State Park has a rich history tied to the lead mining industry. The area was once part of the world's richest known lead deposit, with mining activities dating back to the early 1700s. The introduction of the diamond-tipped drill in 1869 significantly boosted mining operations. Today, the park's ORV riding area utilizes the old mine tailings, transforming a historical industrial site into a recreational hub. The park's unique blend of natural beauty and industrial heritage makes it a fascinating destination.

Near St. Joe State Park, several attractions offer additional exploration opportunities. The Missouri Mines State Historic Site is a must-visit for history buffs, featuring historic mill buildings and a mining museum. Other nearby parks include Elephant Rocks State Park, known for its massive granite boulders, and Hawn State Park, which offers scenic hiking trails. The Mark Twain National Forest is also nearby, providing extensive trails and natural beauty.