Cuivre River State Park

Looking for the Ozarks in northern Missouri? Cuivre River State Park is one of the state’s largest and most rugged parks!

Cuivre River State Park lends a wilder, Ozarkian flavor to the otherwise predominately agricultural landscape of northern Missouri. Although not far from St. Louis, the park is a nature lover’s paradise. It is an outdoor delight to stroll through the park in the spring when flowering dogwood is in bloom or in the fall when the trees are ablaze with autumn colors.

The park is perfect whether you want to enjoy an afternoon visit or spend a few days. Both primitive and modern campsites are available, and Lake Lincoln offers swimming, boating and fishing. The park’s wild and natural areas provide hiking, backpacking, photography and wildlife observation activities. There is also an equestrian trail with a campground for overnight stays.

Camping

Cuivre River State Park offers reservable basic, electric and sewer/electric/water campsites, an equestrian campground, three organized group camps and a special-use camping area. Try one of the park's family campsites for a little extra space or a platform tent site for a unique camping experience.

To make a reservation or view campsite details, photos and availability, go to the reservation website by clicking the “Make a Reservation Now” link below. Reservations may also be made by calling toll free 877-ICampMO (877-422-6766).

Fishing

Cast your line into the 55-acre Lake Lincoln, which is stocked with largemouth bass, bluegill and channel catfish. It has multiple access points for fishing. Contact the park office or visitor center at 636-528-7247 for seasonal rules and regulations.

kayak and Canoe Rental

Rent a single or double person kayak, a paddle board or a canoe at the park.

Rates:

$5 per hour (two-hour mininum)
$25 per day (8 a.m. - sunset)

All rentals include paddles, life jackets and a trash bag. You must be 18 years of age and have a valid driver's license, which will be held until all watercraft/equipment is returned.

Swimming

Refresh on a hot summer day at the public swimming beach on Lake Lincoln. A change house is provided . Swimming at the park is restricted to the beach area only. No pets are allowed in the beach area. Swim at your own risk.

Boating

Use the concrete launch area to get boat access to Lake Lincoln. Motor use on the lake is restricted to electric trolling motors only, however, gas powered motors needn’t be detached. There are no launch fees.

Picnic Areas

Whether your group is large or small, the park can accommodate your needs with four picnic areas and three picnic shelters.

PICNIC SHELTERS
Stone Shelter, at the end of Hwy. 147, accommodates up to 50 guests. This shelter is perfect for family gatherings or special outings, and is equipped with picnic tables, an outdoor grill, electrical outlets, lights and restroom facilities (water and restrooms available during on-season). There is a $60 per day reservation fee. If the shelter is not reserved, it is available daily on a first-come, first-served basis at no charge.

Lakeside Shelter, behind the gate at the intersection of Lincoln Hills Drive and Camp Cuivre Road, accommodates up to 120 guests. This accessible shelter is also ideal for large groups in a day-use capacity, and is equipped with picnic tables, two outdoor grills, electrical outlets, lights and restroom facilities (water and restrooms available during on-season). There is a $65 per day reservation fee. This shelter is available by reservation only.

Hilltop Shelter, on Lincoln Hills Drive between the boat ramp entrance and Mossy Hills Drive, will accommodate up to 50 guests. This shelter is the perfect fit for mid-sized groups and is equipped with picnic tables, an outdoor grill and a vault toilet in close proximity. This shelter does not feature running water, but does have a large parking lot and is located within multiple picnic sites that can be utilized for a larger group. The shelter is accessible to people with disabilities, however, the vault toilet in the area is not. There is a $45 per day reservation fee. If the shelter is not reserved, it is available daily  on a first-come, first served basis at no charge.

PLAYGROUND
A playground is available by Stone Shelter.