Hikers visiting St. Joe State Park will find a variety of routes suitable for all ages and abilities. Plan your excursions from St. Joe State Park cabins and explore Monsanto Lake, Hickory Ridge and Pine Ridge as you meander through the park at your own pace.
This 1.25-mile trail provides views of Monsanto Lake as you travel along the natural path and up a few rolling hills with steep inclines. A small portion of this route is paved and accessible for wheelchair users.
Featuring a variety of terrain including mud, gravel and slippery slopes, this challenging 12.6-mile trail takes hikers through hardwood and pine forests before reaching the ridge. During wet weather, there are a number of stream crossings.
A 4-mile trail that guides hikers through shortleaf pine forests, Missouri’s only native pine. With rocky areas and steep inclines, this trail is also popular with mountain bikers and trail runners.
St. Joe State Park is very popular with ATV enthusiasts and there are many trails dedicated to off-roading in the park. However, there are also many family-friendly activities on offer and St. Joe State Park hotels will provide you with easy access to a range of things to do on your vacation. Cool off in the lake or explore the park on horseback, whatever kind of activity you are looking, visiting St. Joe State Park as a family will ensure everyone has fun.
Monsanto Lake and Pim Lake offer excellent swimming spots, with changing rooms and concession stands to help you to stay refreshed. Additionally, the smaller Pim Lake has picnic tables and barbecues if you want to plan your own grill.
Kayaks and canoes can be rented from the park office, giving the whole family the chance to explore the park from the water. Apollo and JoLee lakes also offering excellent fishing.
Both Hickory Ridge and Pine Ridge trails offer excellent horseback riding, with both routes starting at the Equestrian Staging Area. Riders must bring their own horses as there are no rental opportunities in the park.
