Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park Is The Single Best State Park In Missouri And It's Just Waiting To Be Explored
By Beth Price-Williams|Published July 06, 2021
×
Beth Price-Williams
Author
A professional writer for more than two decades, Beth has lived in nearly a dozen states – from Missouri and Virginia to Connecticut and Vermont – and Toronto, Canada. In addition to traveling extensively in the U.S. and the U.K., she has a BA in Journalism from Point Park University (PA), a MA in Holocaust & Genocide Studies from Stockton University (NJ), and a Master of Professional Writing from Chatham University (PA). A writer and editor for Only In Your State since 2016, Beth grew up in and currently lives outside of Pittsburgh and when she’s not writing or hanging out with her bunnies, budgies, and chinchilla, she and her daughter are out chasing waterfalls.
Missouri makes exploring the gorgeous landscape fun and easy. After all, we have 91 state parks to visit that offer something to do for everyone. Travel & Leisure recently unveiled its list of the best state park in each of the United States with the absolutely breathtaking Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park earning a nod as the best state park in Missouri.
Nestled along the East Fork Black River in Middle Brook, Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park’s 8,781 acres boast an abundance of natural beauty and so much to do that everyone will find something to love.
However, it’s the shut-ins that grabbed the attention of Travel & Leisure. The beautiful natural wonder is a popular destination with Missourians who want to cool down – by slipping down the natural waterslides and relaxing by the waterfalls – during the summertime.
No matter what time of the year you visit, you don’t want to miss the shut-ins. Even if you’re just admiring the gushing water, as its surrounded by fall foliage or frozen in the winter, you’ll be bedazzled by the sheer natural beauty.
The shut-ins provide just a glimpse of all the state park has to offer. One of the best ways to explore is by hiking, biking, or going horseback riding. The park, in fact, features the Goggins Mountain Equestrian Trail.
If you prefer hiking, you’ll find a few scenic trails that meander through the park. The easiest is the 2.2-mile Scour Trail, which offers beautiful wildflower views.
Adventurers might want to try rock climbing; families can take the kiddos to the playground; and those who are up for an old-fashioned cookout will find several picnic areas.
Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park also hosts an assortment of programs in the summer, so you might want to keep an eye out for when those programs are announced.
Do you agree that Johnson’s Shut-Ins Stat Park is the best state park in Missouri? Why or why not? Let us know in the comments! If you are on the lookout for more fun, plan a visit to Dogwood Canyon Nature Park in Lampe.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.