Meramec State Park is a Missouri state park located 60 miles southwest of St. Louis off Interstate 44. It boasts 6,896 acres of hills, pines, hardwoods, limestone outcroppings, and caves with the beautiful Meramec River meandering through it. There is something for everyone, and tons of amenities to ensure that nothing is missing to make a trip to Meramec as comfortable as possible.
Lodging/ Amenities
There are rustic cabins located throughout the park. These include full size beds, basic kitchen supplies, a stove top or full stove, towels, linens, a coffee pot, heating and air conditioning, and most have a microwave and fireplace. These are “rustic” however, and do not include a television, telephone, or a clock. Cabins require a minimum of a two night stay, three night minimum on holiday weekends. There are never any pets or smoking allowed in the cabins.
If preferred, the Hickory Ridge Motel and Conference Center is also located on the park grounds. With 22 rooms, and a full conference center, this is the perfect place for a corporate meeting, or to spend time at the park with the amenities of traditional lodging.
For other needs, the Fireside Store and Grill is available to purchase groceries, camping and fishing supplies, souvenirs, and various water gear for enjoying the river. The attached grill restaurant offers appetizers, burgers, sandwiches and more. The River Stop Store offers canoe and raft rental, as well as snacks, drinks, and ice for float trips.
Things to Do
The park offers standard outdoors recreation, including float trips and fishing, and has the added bonus of caves to explore. Float trips leave at varying times in the morning, and can take anywhere from a few hours to a whole day. There is professional canoe and floating staff to assist with floats on the Meramec River, which is a Class I, sometimes Class II suitable for all levels of floating experience and expertise. Visit www.meramecpark.com/triptimes for a float times.
There is a concrete motor boat launch and a canoe launch located near the store, and they are available during park hours. There are gravel boat launches located in the campground for the use of campers.
There are no set swimming areas, but there is access to the river throughout the park. Patrons are allowed to choose a swimming spot at their own discretion, and asked to exercise caution and observe safe practices when doing so.
There are numerous landforms to explore in the area, including caves, outcropping, and hills. The fishing is also superb, with the Meramec being considered one of the most diversified rivers in North America. More than half of the types of fish found in Missouri can be found in the Meramec, including all three kinds of black bass, catfish, and others.
Contact Info
The park’s physical address is 115 Meramec Park Drive, Sullivan, Mo 63080. For reservations call 877-422-6766, or for regular park info call 1-800-334-6946. Contact can also be made by e-mail at [email protected].