Discover 14 parks within driving distance of Union
"Union is a small, historic town closest to the park. Locals frequently visit for picnics, fishing, and to enjoy the tranquil forested setting."
Catherine Creek State Park features lush forests, a meandering creek, and a seasonal campground. Visitors enjoy fishing, picnicking, and wildlife watching in a serene mountain setting.
"Union is the nearest town, offering small-town charm and essential services for park visitors."
Moncove Lake State Park boasts a beautiful lake, abundant wildlife, and a variety of outdoor recreation options. Its peaceful setting attracts campers, anglers, and nature lovers year-round.
"Union is the closest city and the most convenient base for a short visit. Travelers come for the historic site, local dining, and easy access to other Upstate attractions."
Rose Hill Plantation State Historic Site features a restored antebellum plantation house, interpretive exhibits, and scenic grounds that reflect the history of the Upcountry. The site is known for its Civil War-era significance, shaded picnic areas, and peaceful setting near the Enoree River.
"Union is close enough for frequent day visits, especially for fishing, hiking, and picnicking. Many visitors use the park as a convenient local escape for short outdoor trips."
Meramec State Park is one of Missouri’s most popular outdoor destinations, offering river recreation, scenic overlooks, and a large campground. Its mix of caves, limestone bluffs, and forested hills makes it a favorite for families, anglers, paddlers, and hikers.
"Union is one of the closest communities to the park, making it ideal for frequent visits. Locals and nearby travelers use it for fishing, picnicking, and easy access to the Meramec River."
Robertsville State Park preserves a scenic stretch of the Meramec River with wooded floodplain habitat, open areas, and easy access to the water. Visitors come for quiet recreation, nature observation, and a laid-back day outdoors close to the St. Louis metro area.
"Union is a small town with historic charm. Residents visit Hilgard Junction for family picnics and fishing trips."
Hilgard Junction State Park features shaded campsites, picnic areas, and river access, making it an ideal stop for travelers and outdoor enthusiasts. The park is known for its convenient location and natural beauty.
"Union is a small, historic town with Victorian architecture. Residents and tourists alike enjoy the short drive to Red Bridge State Wayside for picnics and wildlife viewing."
Red Bridge State Wayside features shaded picnic spots, river access, and a relaxing natural setting. It's an ideal stop for travelers on OR-244 seeking a break amidst the beauty of the Blue Mountains.
"Residents of Union can reach Hermann in under an hour for a cultural outing. Deutschheim offers a compact, educational stop that complements a visit to the town’s riverfront and downtown."
Deutschheim State Historic Site highlights the heritage of German immigrants who settled in Hermann in the 1800s. Its restored buildings, period furnishings, and landscaped grounds offer a compact but rich look at daily life in a historic Missouri river town.
"Union residents often visit for a nearby outdoor destination with educational value. The park’s exhibits and picnic areas make it appealing for families and casual travelers."
Route 66 State Park combines outdoor recreation with a strong sense of history along the Meramec River. Highlights include the visitor center, picnic facilities, and exhibits about Route 66 and the former community of Times Beach.
"Union-area visitors come to Croft for lake access and outdoor recreation close to home. The park is a good choice for day use and family outings."
Croft State Park combines a scenic 7,000-acre landscape with a 165-acre lake, making it a favorite for fishing, paddling, and wildlife viewing. Its mix of wooded terrain, open water, and multiuse recreation areas gives visitors plenty of ways to spend a day or a weekend outdoors.
"Union visitors often pair a park stop with other Central Missouri sightseeing and outdoor recreation."
Graham Cave State Park combines archaeology, geology, and outdoor recreation in a compact, scenic setting. Its main features include the famous cave shelter, interpretive exhibits, picnic areas, and access to a peaceful natural landscape.
"Union residents often visit for a low-key educational trip. The site offers a brief but worthwhile look at one of Missouri's notable early leaders."
Gov. Daniel Dunklin's Grave State Historic Site is a small, solemn memorial site centered on the burial place of one of Missouri's early governors. Its peaceful setting offers a brief but meaningful stop for history enthusiasts exploring southeast Missouri.
"Union is close enough for a day trip and is a good home base for families seeking outdoor recreation. Visitors from Union are often drawn to the cave tours and picnic areas."
Onondaga Cave State Park is best known for guided tours through Onondaga Cave, a nationally recognized cave with impressive flowstone, stalactites, and underground pools. The park also offers access to the Meramec River, making it a popular destination for cave exploration and outdoor recreation.
"Union is far enough for a planned day trip but still within comfortable driving distance. Visitors from Union may come for the combination of history, nature, and a peaceful rural setting."
Dillard Mill State Historic Site showcases a restored gristmill, millpond, and dam in a peaceful Ozark setting. The site offers a glimpse into Missouri’s milling history and is especially popular for photography, picnicking, and seasonal creekside scenery.