December promises so much magic – from driving through our neighborhood to view the twinkling Christmas lights to celebrating the season with family and friends. While most of our thoughts are likely on the many Christmas activities held throughout the month, there’s a celestial event, perhaps the most spectacular meteor shower of the year, we don’t want to miss, and we don’t have to. Missouri State Parks will be hosting a viewing of the Geminids at Elephant Rocks State Park this December.

Clear your calendar for the evening of Dec. 15, 2023, for Mother Nature’s Christmas Lights, a Geminids Meteor Shower Viewing Event at Elephant Rocks State Park.
Google/Kevin Roberts
If there’s rain, the viewing event will be held on Dec. 16 instead.
A rare evening event at Elephant Rocks State Park, the meteor shower viewing will run from 5 p.m. to midnight. Park staff will be on hand to help you find the best place in the park to view the meteors dart across the sky.
Wikipedia/Fredlyfish4
Before you head to the park, make sure you are dressed for the weather. The temperature near the rocks – and at the park – is usually colder than the local temperature. Blankets and chairs are permitted.
Flickr/Shannon Dizmang
A few things – propane, campfires, lanterns, and tents – are not allowed during the event.

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Every December since the early 1800s, the Geminids have streaked across the nighttime sky, earning them a reputation as the most reliable, brightest meteor shower of the year. The Geminids, comprised of dust from the asteroid 3200 Phaethon, will light up the nighttime sky from Dec. 4-17 this year.
Flickr/Cliff Kumura
While you can bring binoculars or a telescope, you won’t need one. The Geminids, which can tally around 120 an hour, are visible to the naked eye.
Flickr/Jason Hullinger
Because Elephant Rocks State Park follows the carry-in, carry-out philosophy, throw all trash away and take out everything you brought with you.
Google/Cordell Jeffries
Learn more on the official website of Missouri State Parks. Or, check out the official website of Elephant Rocks State Park.
Google/Jon Pinet

Will you view the Geminids at Elephant Rocks State Park this December? Have you watched this spectacular meteor shower before? Let us know in the comments! Then learn why Elephant Rocks State Park is one of the best state parks in Missouri. If you’re a bit of a drive from Elephant Rocks, why not stay in a Vrbo overnight so you can catch the Geminids and then enjoy a quick getaway?

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Elephant Rocks State Park, 7390, 7406 MO-21, Belleview, MO 63623, USA