The forested ridges and cool hollows of St. Francois State Park offer visitors a retreat from everyday life. Three hiking trails, including one that allows equestrian access, wind through the forested hills and glades of the Coonville Creek Wild Area. Easy access to the Big River makes St. Francois State Park ideal for canoeing and floating and the many shaded picnicsites and two covered shelters make the park perfect for family gatherings. Overnight guests can choose from more than 100 campsites, in campgrounds with modern restrooms, hot showers, and laundry facilities.
CAMPING
St. Francois State Park offers basic and electric campsites and a special-use camping area. For a little extra space, try one of the park's family campsites. There is a backpack camp for hikers on the Pike Run Trail.
To make a reservation or view campsite details, photos and availability, go to the reservation website by clicking the “Make a Reservation Now” link below. Reservations may also be made by calling toll free 877-ICampMO (877-422-6766).
Fishing
Cast your line in the more than three miles of Big River that flows through St. Francois State Park. Visitors should call the park office at 573-358-2173 in advance for updated river conditions. Small-mouth bass and catfish are most commonly caught. Many stretches of both Big River and Coonville Creek are shallow and easily waded, and both streams have easily-accessed banks within the park.
Two river access points in the picnic areas of the park provide convenient canoe launch points along Big River for fishing or floating. Motorized boats are not recommended due to the shallow nature of much of the river.
Picnic Areas
Dozens of individual picnic sites are located throughout the park. Most are situated along the shaded banks of Big River or Coonville Creek, and most are located near restroom and drinking water facilities. Ample parking is provided, and several sites are accessible to persons with disabilities.
PICNIC SHELTERS
Plan your next family reunion, company picnic or other special occasion at St. Francois State Park. Two large picnic shelters may be reserved for $40 each. Both shelters are accessible to people with disabilities. Shelter #1 can accommodate up to 100 people. Shelter #2 can accommodate up to 150 people. Water and electricity are not available. There are vault toilets close to the shelters.
PLAYGROUNDS
Five large playgrounds are located in the picnic areas and campgrounds. Swings, slides and sandy play areas are sure to please the youngest visitors.
Swimming
There is no designated swimming area. Swim at your own risk.
Boating
Two river access points in the picnic areas of the park provide convenient canoe launch points along Big River. Motorized boats are not recommended.
ROCK CLIMBING/RAPPELLING
Many Missouri state parks are home to impressive rock formations, especially those in the Ozarks. Rappelling and rock climbing are allowed at five of those parks.
The sport is allowed only during certain months, and a permit must be obtained from the park office prior to your visit.
Elephants Rock, Lake of the Ozarks and St. Francois state parks have areas where rappelling and rock climbing are permitted.
Rock climbing is allowed at Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park from the day after Labor Day through the Wednesday before Memorial Day. Meramec State Park has a bluff where rappelling is permitted, but not rock climbing.