Missouri has one national park, Gateway Arch National Park in St. Louis, but the national parks in Missouri story is bigger than a single site once you count the rivers, battlefields, and scenic trails the National Park Service protects across the state. This guide answers how many national parks are in Missouri, what makes Gateway Arch worth a stop, and which nearby parks pair well for a longer road trip. For hours, fees, and current conditions, check the Gateway Arch National Park page and confirm the current-year rules before you visit.
How many national parks are in Missouri?
Missouri has exactly one official National Park: Gateway Arch National Park, redesignated from a national memorial in 2018. It is the smallest national park in the system at about 91 acres, yet one of the most visited thanks to the iconic 630-foot stainless-steel arch. If you widen the definition to all National Park Service units, Missouri also holds Ozark National Scenic Riverways, several national historic sites, and a national battlefield, giving the state far more federal park land than the single "national park" label suggests.
What can you do at Gateway Arch National Park?
The centerpiece is the tram ride to the top of the Arch, where a small observation deck frames the Mississippi River and the downtown skyline. At the base, the Museum at the Gateway Arch traces westward expansion, and riverboat cruises depart from the levee. Plan two to four hours, and buy timed tram tickets in advance during summer. The surrounding park grounds are free to walk and make an easy add-on to any St. Louis itinerary.
Which nearby parks pair well with a Missouri trip?
Ozark National Scenic Riverways, about two to three hours south, protects the spring-fed Current and Jacks Fork rivers and is a favorite for canoeing and float trips. For a longer loop, cross into Arkansas to reach Hot Springs National Park, roughly a half-day drive, and explore more options across Arkansas. You can compare destinations state by state on the states hub or browse the full national parks directory.
How do you get around and where should you stay?
Gateway Arch sits in downtown St. Louis, easily reached from Lambert-St. Louis International Airport in about 20 minutes and walkable from many downtown hotels, so a car is optional for the Arch itself. You will want a vehicle to reach Ozark National Scenic Riverways or to build a multi-park loop through Missouri and Arkansas. Base yourself downtown for the Arch, Busch Stadium, and the riverfront, then head south toward Van Buren or Eminence for the rivers, where cabins and campgrounds fill fast on summer weekends. Fuel up and pack water before leaving the interstate, since services thin out along the scenic riverways.
When is the best time to visit Missouri's national parks?
Spring and fall bring mild temperatures and lighter crowds, ideal for both the Arch and the rivers. Summers are hot and humid but best for floating the Ozark waterways, while winter offers quiet Arch visits and the occasional dusting of snow downtown. For more on planning a statewide route, see the Missouri guide.
FAQ
How many national parks are in Missouri?
Missouri has one official National Park, Gateway Arch National Park. Counting all National Park Service units, the state also includes Ozark National Scenic Riverways, national historic sites, and a national battlefield.
Is Gateway Arch National Park worth visiting?
Yes. The tram ride to the top, the underground museum, and the riverfront grounds make it a compact but memorable stop, especially paired with a St. Louis city visit.
Do you need tickets for the Gateway Arch?
Walking the grounds is free, but the tram to the top and the museum tram require timed tickets that sell out in summer. Check the current-year rules and book ahead.