Castlewood State Park
A beloved St. Louis area park offering stunning river views, challenging hikes, and excellent mountain biking trails.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful hikes
Castlewood State Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful hikes
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A beloved St. Louis area park offering stunning river views, challenging hikes, and excellent mountain biking trails.
"Breathtaking views and a great workout, Castlewood State Park is a must-visit for nature lovers!"
🎯 Lone Wolf & River Scene Combo
Hike Lone Wolf for the climb & views, then connect to River Scene for a scenic descent.
🦟 Bug Spray is Essential
Especially along the river in summer, mosquitoes can be plentiful.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lone Wolf Trail Overlook
Lone Wolf Trail
Steep climb rewards with breathtaking bluff views of the Meramec River.
+1
River Scene Trail
Connects to Lone Wolf Trail
Scenic path along the river, featuring a memorable staircase descent.
Grotpeter Trail
Various access points
A less crowded option offering a good mix of uphill and downhill terrain.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Etiquette & Crowds
Best Trails for Views
+2Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Lone Wolf & River Scene Combo
Hike Lone Wolf for the climb & views, then connect to River Scene for a scenic descent.
🦟 Bug Spray is Essential
Especially along the river in summer, mosquitoes can be plentiful.
🚴 Bikers & Hikers Share
Be aware of mountain bikers; yield to uphill hikers and give bikers space.
🐾 Pet-Friendly Trails
Dogs are welcome on trails, but always keep them leashed.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Lone Wolf & River Scene Combo
Hike Lone Wolf for the climb & views, then connect to River Scene for a scenic descent.
🦟 Bug Spray is Essential
Especially along the river in summer, mosquitoes can be plentiful.
🚴 Bikers & Hikers Share
Be aware of mountain bikers; yield to uphill hikers and give bikers space.
🐾 Pet-Friendly Trails
Dogs are welcome on trails, but always keep them leashed.
📸 Capture the Views
Plenty of picturesque spots, especially along the bluff trails.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Castlewood State Park's breathtaking views and diverse trails, making it a beloved spot for hiking and biking. While some trails offer a challenging workout, the scenic rewards are consistently praised. It's a highly recommended destination for nature lovers and families.
"Amazing time walking several trails today. Some of the views were simply enjoyable. A lot of dog walkers and bicyclists on the trails. All respectful. Definitely worth a return trip."
Rodney Yoswig
"Best route... take the Lone Wolf Trail, entrance (next to a parking area) across from the playground on Kiefer Creek. It's a steep climb right away, but you will be on the bluff, overlooking Meramec River in about quarter of a mile hike. It connects to River Scene Trail, and take that, down the stairs, and the rest of the trail is flat, soft and in between the river and railroad track. It will come out just a quarter of a mile down from where the entrance is, still on Kiefer Creek Rd. It's my favorite trail. Be sure to bring bug spray during summer... lots of mosquitoes when you hike along the river."
Sonny Ng
"My favourite to-go spot for a time friendly hike. Ir was perfecr for the "first hike" of the season as we wanted to start with something small. Kid friendly, pet friendly, there's beautiful stairways that go down to rail teack beside the river. Vwry beautiful views and has multople spots to sit and rest.
Highly recommend this gem of a place!"
Nikita Agrawal
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Castlewood State Park is located in Ballwin, MO. It's easily accessible by car, with multiple parking areas available. The main entrance is off Kiefer Creek Road.
Yes, there are several parking areas. If the main lots are full, spillover parking is available across the street from some trailheads.
Yes, you can use GPS coordinates for specific trailheads. For example, the Lone Wolf Trailhead is at 38.5499388, -90.5402435.
Public transport options are limited for direct access to the park. Driving is the most common and convenient way to reach Castlewood State Park.
Castlewood State Park is located about 20-30 minutes west of downtown St. Louis, making it a convenient day trip destination.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Castlewood State Park is free to enter. There are no admission fees required to access the park and its trails.
The park is generally open from dawn to dusk. It's always a good idea to check the official Missouri State Parks website for any specific seasonal hours or closures.
No advance booking is necessary as there is no entrance fee. You can visit anytime during park hours.
Generally, no special permits are required for day use. However, if you plan on organizing a large event or specific activity, it's best to contact park management.
The park is typically open from dawn to dusk. Overnight stays or late-night visits are not permitted.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Lone Wolf Trail and River Scene Trail are highly recommended for their views and varied terrain. The Grotpeter Trail is a good alternative if you prefer fewer crowds. +2
Yes, Castlewood is considered one of the best mountain biking locations in the St. Louis area, with trails for various skill levels.
Restroom facilities are available at various points within the park, typically near parking areas and popular trailheads.
While you can access the river, swimming is generally not recommended due to currents and submerged obstacles. It's more for scenic enjoyment.
Visitors often spot deer, various bird species, and other small woodland creatures. Keep an eye out during your hike!
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no restaurants or concessions within Castlewood State Park. You'll need to bring your own food and drinks.
Yes, there are several designated picnic areas with tables throughout the park, perfect for a day out.
Absolutely! Bringing your own picnic is encouraged. Remember to pack out all your trash to keep the park clean.
The nearby towns of Ballwin and Ellisville offer a variety of restaurants, cafes, and grocery stores for dining options.
Alcoholic beverages are generally not permitted in Missouri State Parks. It's best to adhere to park regulations.
📸 📸 Photography
The overlooks on the Lone Wolf Trail offer stunning panoramic views. The River Scene Trail, especially the staircase, is also very photogenic.
Yes, Castlewood State Park is spectacular in the fall with vibrant foliage, making it a prime location for autumn photography.
Early morning or late afternoon (golden hour) provides the best natural light for landscape photography, minimizing harsh shadows.
Drone usage is typically restricted in Missouri State Parks to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. Check official park rules for specifics.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A sturdy tripod is helpful for low-light conditions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The River Scene Trail, with its gentler terrain and proximity to the river, is often a hit with younger children. Remember to pack plenty of snacks and water, and consider bringing bug spray, especially during warmer months, as mosquitoes can be present near the river.
🐶 Dog Owners
It's a wonderful opportunity for them to enjoy the outdoors and explore the various paths alongside you. Be sure to bring water for your dog, especially on longer hikes or warmer days. Also, remember to clean up after your pet to help maintain the park's cleanliness for everyone to enjoy.
📸 Photographers
+1 The River Scene Trail's staircase is another iconic spot that captures the park's unique charm. Fall is a particularly magical time for photography here, with the vibrant foliage creating a stunning backdrop.
Early mornings or late afternoons offer the best light, minimizing harsh shadows and enhancing the natural beauty of the park. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails: Lone Wolf & River Scene
+1This trail often connects to the River Scene Trail, which provides a different experience. As you descend, you'll encounter a memorable staircase leading down towards the riverbank. The rest of the River Scene Trail is relatively flat, winding between the river and railroad tracks, offering a more relaxed walk.
Combining these two trails creates a fantastic loop that showcases the diverse beauty of Castlewood State Park. Remember to wear appropriate footwear, as some sections can be rocky and uneven.
Mountain Biking at Castlewood
The trails offer a dynamic riding experience with varied terrain, including climbs, descents, and technical sections. Riders often praise the park's natural beauty, which enhances the overall biking adventure. It's important for both bikers and hikers to be aware of each other on the trails and practice safe riding habits.
When planning a biking trip, consider checking trail conditions, especially after rain, as some areas can become muddy. Always wear a helmet and appropriate safety gear.
Best Times for Fall Colors
The fall foliage typically peaks in mid-to-late October, offering a limited but stunning window for visitors. Trails like the Lone Wolf and River Scene provide excellent vantage points to admire the colorful canopy. The crisp air and beautiful scenery make for an invigorating hiking experience.
To make the most of your fall visit, aim for weekday mornings to avoid the largest crowds. This allows for a more peaceful immersion in the natural beauty and better opportunities for photography.
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Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit