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"For
more than 80 years, the Missouri state park system has preserved and made
available to the people of Missouri the best of our state's natural and cultural
resources. The mission of the Missouri state park system is to preserve and
interpret the state's most outstanding natural landscapes and cultural
landmarks, and to provide outdoor recreational opportunities.
Preserving Missouri's Natural
Landscapes
A vital component of the state park mission is to preserve the finest
representatives of Missouri's natural landscapes. These diverse landscapes blend
together to create unique and varied settings for Missouri's state parks. From
the ancient geological wonders of our caves to the new wildflowers that appear
each year as a result of our prairie restoration efforts; from the old-growth
oaks of the Mississippi lowlands to lofty pine forests; from the ancient domes
and dissected hills of the Ozark highland to freely meandering streams -
Missouri state parks preserve the considerable array of landscapes that piece
together our distinctive state.
Preserving Missouri's Cultural
Landmarks
Missouri's colorful past is preserved and interpreted on the historic
battlefields where family and friends fought against each other in a war that
split the state; in the very rooms where buckskinned statesmen held heated
arguments that resulted in Missouri's statehood; and in the homes of Missouri's
native sons who went on to become major figures on the world stage. Indian
villages interpret life before our state was formed, while villages settled by
German and French immigrants denote a time of transition. Nostalgic landmarks,
such as mills and covered bridges, take us on a journey back to simpler times. A
visit to a state historic site is one way to celebrate and understand Missouri's
interesting past and the colorful men and women who shaped our history.
Providing Recreational
Opportunities
The preservation of these treasures and history would mean little if people
could not enjoy them. Whether you seek adventure or a place to take a quiet nap
under a shady tree - Missouri state parks can accommodate. For adventure, take a
wild cave tour or zoom across sand flats on a dirt bike. For exercise, hike a
scenic wooded trail next to a stream and enjoy the wildflowers or ride a bicycle
along the bluffs that tower above the Missouri River. For relaxation, cast your
line for a variety of fish in our lakes, streams and rivers or ride a horse into
a peaceful, secluded area. For an educational experience, take a nature walk led
by a park naturalist or tour a historic site, view a battle re-enactment or
watch a living history demonstration. Take time to explore every option at a
state park or historic site by spending a few days in one of our campgrounds,
cabins or motels. Lunch may be spent at a quiet picnic table beneath a shady
tree or at one of our dining lodges. The possibilities are endless!"
- From the mostateparks.com
website
To learn more about Missouri visit http://www.mostateparks.com/geninfo.htm
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