Confluence Point State Park
Stand where two of North America's mightiest rivers, the Missouri and Mississippi, converge. A site of natural wonder and Lewis & Clark history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Lower river levels, fewer crowds
Confluence Point State Park
Best Time
Lower river levels, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Stand where two of North America's mightiest rivers, the Missouri and Mississippi, converge. A site of natural wonder and Lewis & Clark history.
"Very cool to stand at the Confluence of the two mightiest rivers in North America! A bit off the beaten path but worth it!"
🚗 Access Road Caution
The 3-mile dirt road to the park can be rough. Drive slowly and be aware of potential mud after rain. :car:
🚶 Trail Conditions
The trail to the point is partly concrete, partly gravel. It can flood, so check conditions. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Confluence Point
The very tip of the park
Witness the dramatic meeting of the mighty Missouri and Mississippi Rivers, a unique geographical marvel.
Lewis & Clark Trail
Park trails
Walk in the footsteps of explorers on a scenic trail with historical significance.
Waterfowl Watching
Wetland areas
Spot diverse bird species in the park's natural wetland habitats, especially in cooler months.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Respect the Rivers
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Access Road Caution
The 3-mile dirt road to the park can be rough. Drive slowly and be aware of potential mud after rain. :car:
🚶 Trail Conditions
The trail to the point is partly concrete, partly gravel. It can flood, so check conditions. :athletic_shoe:
🐝 Bee Awareness
Be mindful of bees, especially in the shelter area. :bee:
💧 Avoid River Swimming
Swimming in the rivers is not recommended due to water quality and safety concerns. :noentrysign:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Access Road Caution
The 3-mile dirt road to the park can be rough. Drive slowly and be aware of potential mud after rain. :car:
🚶 Trail Conditions
The trail to the point is partly concrete, partly gravel. It can flood, so check conditions. :athletic_shoe:
🐝 Bee Awareness
Be mindful of bees, especially in the shelter area. :bee:
💧 Avoid River Swimming
Swimming in the rivers is not recommended due to water quality and safety concerns. :noentrysign:
🕊️ Peaceful Escape
Often a quiet spot, perfect for a peaceful nature escape. :dove:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Confluence Point State Park a unique and worthwhile stop to witness the impressive meeting of the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers. The historical significance tied to Lewis and Clark adds another layer of interest. While the park is basic with limited amenities, its natural spectacle and peaceful atmosphere are highly appreciated. Some note the rough access road and potential for flooding as drawbacks.
"Very cool to stand at the Confluence of tge two mightiest rivers in North America! A bit off tge beaten path but worth it!"
Gary Pritts
"Very cool. I especially liked how one can actually see the dividing line where the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers meet and merge. The trail from the parking area to the point is fairly level and in good condition since it wasn't under water when I went. But it's obvious that it's regularly flooded, which is to be expected. Clean-up crews do a good job moving the mud to either side of the path."
Debra A
"This is a state park located at the Confluence of the Missouri and Mississippi River near West Alton Missouri. There's a couple picnic tables and restrooms. A .3 mile trail leads to "The Point " where the two rivers meet. The trail is concrete part of the way and gravel the rest. Part of the area leading to the park is wetlands and even in August there was some waterfowl around. I would not suggest going here when the rivers are high."
Dan Graff
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The park is accessed via a 3-mile dirt road from Highway 61 near West Alton, Missouri. Be prepared for a rougher drive, especially after rain. :car:
Yes, there is ample parking available at the park entrance. :parking:
The road is unpaved and can be muddy or rutted. It's advisable to drive slowly and cautiously. :road:
While most vehicles can manage the dirt road, low-clearance cars might have difficulty, especially after heavy rain. :truck:
It's a bit off the beaten path, but it's a unique destination for those interested in natural geography and history. :compass:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Confluence Point State Park is free to enter. :ticket:
The park is generally open from dawn to dusk. It's best to check with the Missouri State Parks system for any specific seasonal hours or closures. :clock:
There is no entrance fee to visit Confluence Point State Park. :moneywithwings:
Yes, the park is accessible year-round, but trail conditions can vary significantly due to river levels and weather. :calendar:
The main restriction is related to river flooding, which can make the access road and trails impassable. :warning:
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The main attraction is witnessing the confluence of the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers. You can also walk the trail, enjoy nature, and observe waterfowl. :binoculars: +1
The trail to the 'Point' is a short, approximately 0.3-mile walk. :walking:
The trail is partly concrete and partly gravel. It's generally level but can be affected by flooding. :wheelchair:
Yes, there are restrooms available at the park. :restroom:
There are a couple of picnic tables available for visitors to use. :sandwich:
📸 📸 Photography
The most iconic shot is the meeting of the two rivers. The surrounding wetlands also offer beautiful natural scenery. :camera:
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with fewer crowds. :sunrise: :sunset:
The designated 'Point' area offers the clearest view of the river confluence. :viewfinder:
Landscape photography, nature photography, and historical interest shots are common. :bridgeatnight:
Drone usage is subject to park regulations. It's best to check with Missouri State Parks for current rules. :drone:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Emphasize the visual aspect of the two rivers meeting – it's a natural phenomenon that can capture a child's imagination. While swimming is not advised, the open space allows for some running around. Be sure to discuss water safety and the importance of staying on marked paths.
🚶 Nature Enthusiasts & Hikers
While the park itself doesn't offer extensive hiking, its location can be a starting point or a point of interest for those exploring the broader river systems. Be prepared for varying trail conditions, especially after rain or during high water periods.
📸 Photographers
Be mindful of the weather and river levels, as these can significantly impact the scene. The dirt access road might require a vehicle capable of handling uneven terrain. Early mornings often offer the best light and the fewest visitors, allowing for unobstructed shots. :camera:
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Confluence: A Natural Wonder
This meeting of waters has been a crucial point for millennia, influencing ecosystems and human history. The park preserves this natural spectacle, allowing visitors to appreciate the immense forces that shape our continent. While the park itself is relatively simple, the natural wonder it protects is profound. It's a place to contemplate the vastness of nature and the interconnectedness of waterways.
History and Exploration
While the park doesn't feature extensive historical exhibits, the very ground you walk on is steeped in this legacy. The trail leading to the point is part of the broader Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail, connecting visitors to a larger narrative of exploration and discovery. It’s a place where natural beauty and historical importance converge, offering a unique educational experience for those interested in the westward expansion of the United States.
Wildlife and Wetlands
Even outside of peak migration, the park offers opportunities for nature observation. Keep an eye out for amphibians, reptiles, and small mammals that call this riparian environment home. The park's natural state, despite occasional flooding, supports a healthy ecosystem. It’s a reminder that even seemingly simple landscapes can be teeming with life.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit