Don Robinson State Park
Located next to St. Louis, this state park should not be discounted for being located near a big city. This park has many interesting features that make it worth a visit. Visit the website to learn more here.
Trails:
There are two main trails located at the park. The first, also the most popular, is the Sandstone Canyon Trail. This trail is 4.0 miles long, although it can be cut in half by short cut in the middle that passes over a natural bridge. I recommend the western side of this trail which happens to be 2.3 miles long. The other trail is the Labarque Hills Trail which is 2.6 miles long.
Other Info:
The more than 800 acre park was donated to Missouri State Parks by the late Don Robinson in 2012. The park features numerous sandstone glades, canyons, shelter caves, creeks, and lots of forests. After a large enough the rain the entire park is a waterfall hunters paradise, boasting over 50+ waterfalls on and off of the trails. The park is located in the Labarque Creek watershed, a 6-mile long creek known for having 54 species of fish. The acidity of the sandstone allows plants and animals to thrive here that wouldn't elsewhere in Missouri.
Don Robinson Falls after rainfall.
Overlook at the site of Don Robinson's old home.
Subway Falls
Sidewinder Cascade
Simon Falls
Shortcut over natural bridge.
Sandstone Canyon off trail.
Don Robinson's home. A replica will be built in its place.
Hidden Canyon Falls
Sandstone Rock Formation on the LaBarque Hills Trail
Sandstone glade, one of many along the trails.
Sandstone Canyon Falls after plenty of rain.
Hidden Canyon off trail.
Sandstone Canyon
Whirlpool Falls