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Cuivre River State Park adventures

Cuivre River State Park Adventures

Cuivre River State Park is a diverse Missouri state park known for its scenic landscapes, extensive trail system, and abundant opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife observation.

6,400
Acres Protected
40+
Miles of Trails
Approx. 130,000
Annual Visitors
1946
Year Established

About Cuivre River State Park

 

Cuivre River State Park is a 6,400-acre park located in Lincoln County, Missouri, featuring rugged hills, hardwood forests, and clear brook trout streams that define its varied landscape. The park is part of the Driftless Area, providing distinctive topography with steep bluffs and deep valleys shaped by the Cuivre River and its tributaries. Ecologically, the park supports a broad range of flora and fauna, including oak-hickory forests, wildflowers, and wildlife such as white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and various songbirds. The park’s history is tied to early American settlers and conservation efforts in mid-Missouri, with much of its land acquired to protect the river’s watershed and offer recreational access to natural Missouri beauty. Visitors are drawn to the park’s comprehensive trail system, which includes over 40 miles of multi-use paths suitable for hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking, along with excellent fishing spots in the designated trout streams. Popular landmarks include the remains of old mills, scenic overlooks along the river, and pristine forest sections with native wildflowers. With well-maintained campgrounds and picnic areas, Cuivre River State Park provides a peaceful retreat from urban life and a destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a blend of adventure, nature study, and relaxation in the heart of Missouri.

Highlights

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Fordyce Trail – A scenic and challenging multi-use trail through hills and forest.

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Designated trout streams – Popular spots for smallmouth bass and rainbow trout fishing.

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Hunting areas open seasonally, attracting upland game bird hunters.

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A network of backcountry horse trails offering remote riding experiences.

Notable Natural Features

Fordyce Trail

A 12-mile loop trail popular for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding offering varied terrain and several scenic overlooks.

Cuivre River

A clear, spring-fed river with areas designated for trout fishing and smallmouth bass, providing excellent angling opportunities.

Bald Hill Overlook

A viewpoint accessible by trail that offers panoramic views of the park's rugged hills and forest canopy.