Top 20 Lakes in Missouri
Best lakes in Missouri offer diverse natural landscapes and recreational opportunities across the state. Missouri's geography includes rolling hills, forests, and numerous waterways, contributing to a rich environment for lake formation. These lakes serve as central points for outdoor activities, reflecting the state's focus on natural preservation and public access. The region provides a variety of aquatic environments for exploration.
Best lakes in Missouri
- The most popular lakes is Sunset View of Creve Coeur Lake, a viewpoint that overlooks…
Last updated: June 2, 2026
Forest Park
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Sequiota Park Pond and Waterfall
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Mallard Lake
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Sunset View of Creve Coeur Lake
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Post-Dispatch Lake, Forest Park
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Weldon Spring Conservation Area
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Stephens Lake Park
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Klondike Park
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Kauffman Legacy Park
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Nathanael Greene Park
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Popular around Missouri
American Discovery Trail — Walking from sea to shining sea
The Katy Trail – Pedaling Missouri's historic railbed
Katy Trail — From steel rails to scenic trails
Adventure Cycling Association's Bicycle Route 66 — LA to Chicago
Ozark Trail — A memorable trek across Missouri’s backcountry
Rock Island Trail — Walking through railroad history
The rhythms of the river – road trip along the Mississippi
Like in the Wild West – hiking on the Oregon Trail
Historic Route 66 – curiosities, selfie spots and diners
Hiking in Missouri
Other adventures in Missouri
Tips from the Community
Stephens Lake Park in Columbia, Missouri, is a 116-acre park with a lake for fishing, a sand beach for swimming, and non-motorized boating. The park also has spraygrounds, playgrounds, picnic areas, walking paths (including a 1.7-mile perimeter trail), an amphitheater, gardens, and seasonal options like sledding and ice skating. Amenities include reservable shelters, restrooms, and free Wi‑Fi, making it a convenient spot for a range of outdoor activities.
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Stephens Lake Park has a small sandy beach and a sprayground in the summer. It’s perfect for taking the kids to play or swim—or just for you to relax, enjoy the sun, and take a break.
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Forest Park is a huge recreational park in the heart of St. Louis. The park is perfect for relaxing, biking, golfing, and exploring the various cultural offerings at the Museum of History, St. Louis Zoo, Art Museum, or Planetarium. It's also easily accessible by metro.
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The bike lanes here are wonderful. The connectors could be improved though!
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Nathanael Greene Park shares the property with the Springfield Botanical Gardens. Walking paths surround the gardens, ponds, and gazebos, and some connect to the South Creek Greenway, which passes by Lake Drummund.
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Sequiota Park is beautiful, spanning 28 acres and offering a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. There are several picnic areas and plenty of open space. Its unique feature is a protected cave on the grounds that is home to an endangered migrating colony of gray bats. The park surrounds a lovely pond with plenty of ducks, geese, and swans, making it the perfect place to stop for a picnic and enjoy its beautiful surroundings.
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This is a scenic lake on the south side of Creve Couer Lake Park. There are options to do a running loop around the lake and marsh joining onto Creve Couer Lake to the north, or follow Creve Couer Connector to the Veteran's Memorial Bridge.
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Kauffman Legacy Park beckons as an urban haven, inviting everyone to relish its green expanse. Whether it's a serene jog, leisurely dog walk, or exploration of the trails, the park is a communal space for all. Home to the Kauffman Community Garden, cultivated in collaboration with Kansas City Community Gardens, the park also emphasizes conservation and showcases native Missouri wildlife. A sanctuary for Canada geese during migration, the lake hosts adorable goslings in the spring, adding seasonal charm to this vibrant urban retreat.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there family-friendly lakes in Missouri?
Yes, many lakes in Missouri are excellent for families. For example, Creve Coeur Lake in Creve Coeur Lake Memorial Park offers picnics, non-motorized boating, and fishing. Sequiota Park Pond and Waterfall features a pond with ducks and swans, plus picnic areas. Stephens Lake Park is another great option with a sand beach for swimming, spraygrounds, and playgrounds.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near Missouri's lakes?
Missouri's lakes offer a wide range of outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking, running, and cycling on various trails. For instance, there are many easy hiking trails available, such as those listed in the Easy hikes in Missouri guide. Cycling enthusiasts can explore routes like the Katy Trail and Creve Coeur Lake Loop, detailed in the Cycling in Missouri guide.
Are there lakes with beaches for swimming in Missouri?
Yes, some lakes in Missouri feature sandy beaches perfect for swimming. Stephens Lake Park in Columbia is known for its small sandy beach, making it a popular spot for cooling off during warmer months.
Where can I find easy hiking trails near lakes in Missouri?
Many lakes are surrounded by accessible trails. For easy hikes, consider areas like Forest Park, which offers extensive paths suitable for all skill levels. The Easy hikes in Missouri guide provides several options, including trails like Sandstone Canyon Trail and Carl L. Chinnery Nature Trail.
What natural features can I explore around Missouri's lakes?
Beyond the lakes themselves, you can discover diverse natural features. Forest Park boasts forests, ecosystems, and nature reserves. Sequiota Park Pond and Waterfall features a protected cave that is home to a migrating colony of gray bats. The Weldon Spring Conservation Area includes forests, grasslands, and limestone cliffs overlooking the Missouri River.
Are there opportunities for non-motorized boating on Missouri lakes?
Yes, several lakes are ideal for non-motorized boating. Creve Coeur Lake is a popular choice for activities like kayaking and paddleboarding. Stephens Lake Park also permits non-motorized boating on its lake.
What cultural attractions are near lakes in Missouri?
Some lakes are situated near significant cultural institutions. Forest Park in St. Louis is a prime example, hosting the St. Louis Zoo, Art Museum, Missouri History Museum, Science Center, and Muny Opera, all within its expansive grounds.
Can I find trails for running near Missouri lakes?
Absolutely. Many lakes offer excellent running trails. Forest Park has a large running loop, and the Running Trails in Missouri guide lists options like the Lakeview Loop Trail and Hawk Ridge Trail, which are often near water bodies.
Are there lakes in Missouri suitable for fishing?
Fishing is a popular activity at many Missouri lakes. Creve Coeur Lake is known for its fishing opportunities. Many other lakes across the state are stocked and managed for various fish species, providing diverse angling experiences.
What do visitors enjoy most about Missouri's lakes?
Visitors frequently praise the diverse recreational opportunities and natural beauty. Many appreciate the well-maintained parks, like Sequiota Park, for their peaceful surroundings and wildlife. The extensive trail systems, such as those found in Forest Park, are also highly valued for biking and walking.
Are there any lakes with unique wildlife or ecological features?
Yes, some lakes offer unique ecological experiences. Sequiota Park Pond and Waterfall is notable for its protected cave, which serves as a habitat for an endangered migrating colony of gray bats. The park's pond also hosts various waterfowl like ducks, geese, and swans.
Can I find cycling routes that incorporate Missouri lakes?
Yes, Missouri has several cycling routes that feature its lakes. The Cycling in Missouri guide highlights routes such as the Katy Trail and Creve Coeur Lake Loop, offering scenic rides alongside the water.
Most popular routes in Missouri
Most popular attractions in Missouri
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