Hiking with Kids Open
Castlewood State Park
4.8(3,544)4.8 out of 5 stars, 3544 reviews St. Louis, MO
About Castlewood State Park
Castlewood State Park offers a serene and family-friendly hiking experience with well-maintained trails, scenic views, and opportunities for picnics and biking, making it an ideal spot for families looking to connect with nature.
What parents should know
Summarized from real visitor reviews.
Best for: Family outings on weekendsQuiet reflection and spiritual connection with natureToddlers to teens: Trails are suitable for young children and older kids alike, making it a versatile option for families.
Why families love it
- Well-kept trails suitable for all skill levels
- Beautiful views along the Meramec River
- Multiple resting spots with scenic overlooks
- Free entry, providing great value for families
- Pet-friendly environment, allowing dogs to enjoy the park
- Riverside trail (Red Trail) offers stunning river views
Insider tips
- Visit during weekdays or early mornings to avoid crowds
- Bring snacks and drinks for picnics, as there are no food vendors on-site
- Wear comfortable hiking shoes for the trails
- Check trail maps at the entrance to plan your route effectively
Good to know before you go
- Weekends during peak hours when the park can get busy
- Rainy days, as trails may become muddy and slippery
- Crowds
- Weekends tend to be busier, especially during peak hours.
- Value
- Entry is free, providing excellent value compared to other paid attractions. Families can enjoy a full day of activities without any hidden costs.
- Food
- Visitors are encouraged to bring their own food and drinks, as there are no on-site food services.
- Safety
- Well-maintained trails reduce the risk of accidents
What parents say
"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!"
a month ago
"Castlewood State Park was the perfect spot for a Saturday adventure! I took my two daughters and a friend, and we had an incredible day hiking, connecting, and soaking in the peaceful beauty around us. The trails are well-kept, with routes for every skill level, which made it easy for all of us to enjoy. We hugged trees and spent time talking about the importance of getting back to a simple life with God at the center, truly feeling His presence in the stillness and natural beauty that surrounded us. The scenic views were breathtaking, especially along the Meramec River, with sunlight streami"
6 months ago
"Beautiful park with lots of trees, decided to hike the river scenery trail which I recommend, lots to do such as picnics or biking. Entry is free which is nice. I highly recommend visiting if you in the area"
7 months ago
Reviews sourced from public Google data.
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