🌤 Weather at Hawn State Park by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 34–77 °F | 63–88 °F | 34–81 °F | 23–48 °F |
Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Farmington, 10 mi away, elevation 900 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
🌲 Missouri’s Most Scenic Hiking — Sandstone Canyons, Shut-Ins, and Pine Forests — The acclaimed Pickle Creek and Whispering Pines trails wind through ancient sandstone formations, sandy-bottomed creeks, and towering shortleaf pine groves — Ste. Genevieve County, Missouri
Hawn State Park is consistently ranked as one of the best hiking destinations in Missouri — a bold claim in a state full of exceptional Ozark parks — and the reputation is earned. The park’s Pickle Creek Trail winds through a sandstone canyon of shut-ins (narrow rock chutes where creeks flow through gaps in the bedrock), moss-covered boulders, small waterfalls, and towering shortleaf pine forests that feel more like Appalachian wilderness than the Midwest. The Whispering Pines Trail extends the experience to a 10-mile backpacking loop through diverse Ozark ecosystems — pine groves, oak-hickory ridgelines, and sandy-bottomed creeks — that many experienced hikers call the finest backpacking trail in Missouri.
Located in western Ste. Genevieve County, about 80 miles south of St. Louis, Hawn State Park is part of the Ozark Plateau region — a landscape where 500-million-year-old sandstone and dolomite create dramatic geological features. The park covers 3,271 acres of largely undeveloped forest, with camping beneath towering pines and access to the River Aux Vases for wading and swimming on hot summer days.
Trail Guide: Missouri’s Best Hiking
Pickle Creek Trail — 1.6 Miles
The park’s signature trail follows Pickle Creek through a narrow sandstone canyon, passing shut-ins (natural rock chutes), small cascading waterfalls, and boulder gardens draped in moss and fern. The trail is rocky and rugged in sections — proper footwear is essential — but the geological scenery is unlike anything else in Missouri state parks. Towering shortleaf pines line the canyon walls, and the creek itself runs clear over sand and bedrock. This trail alone is worth the drive from St. Louis.
Whispering Pines Trail — 10 Miles
Missouri’s premier backpacking trail. The system divides into a 6-mile north loop and a 4-mile south loop, each offering distinct terrain. The north loop climbs to Evans Knob for panoramic ridgeline views, then descends through old pine forests. The south loop follows the River Aux Vases and crosses hardwood bottomland. Backcountry camping is permitted along both loops (register at the trailhead). Many hikers combine sections of Pickle Creek and Whispering Pines to create loops of varying length.
| Trail | Distance | Difficulty | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pickle Creek Trail | 1.6 mi | Moderate (rocky) | Shut-ins, sandstone canyon, waterfalls |
| Whispering Pines North Loop | 6 mi | Moderate-Difficult | Evans Knob, ridgeline, pine forest |
| Whispering Pines South Loop | 4 mi | Moderate | River Aux Vases, bottomland, creek |
| Pickle Creek + WP Combo | ~2 mi | Moderate | Best short-hike combination |
Camping
| Option | Sites | Amenities | Season |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Campsites | 30+ | Fire ring, table, vault toilet | Year-round |
| Electric Campsites | 20+ | 30-amp electric, fire ring, table | Apr–Oct |
| Backcountry (Whispering Pines) | Dispersed | Primitive, register at trailhead | Year-round |
The campground sits beneath a canopy of towering pines — one of the most atmospheric camping environments in the state. Sites are well-spaced and shaded. Reserve through mostateparks.com for peak weekends.
Best Time to Visit
| Season | Weather | Crowds | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring (Mar–May) | 50–75°F | Low-Moderate | Waterfall flow, wildflowers, cool hiking |
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | 75–92°F, humid | Moderate | Creek wading, backpacking, camping |
| Fall (Oct–Nov) | 45–68°F | Moderate | Ozark foliage, photography, backpacking |
| Winter (Dec–Feb) | 25–45°F | Very Low | Solitude, ice formations on shut-ins |
💰 Trip Cost Estimator
| Expense | Day Trip | Weekend | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Park Entrance | FREE | FREE | Missouri state parks are free |
| Basic Campsite | — | $14–$18 | Non-electric |
| Electric Campsite | — | $22–$28 | 30-amp |
| Backcountry Camping | — | FREE | Register at trailhead |
| Total | FREE | $14–$28 | Outstanding value |
⚠️ Safety Information
| Hazard | Risk Level | Prevention |
|---|---|---|
| 🪨 Rocky/Uneven Trails | Moderate | Ankle-supporting boots on Pickle Creek |
| 🐍 Copperheads/Timber Rattlers | Low-Moderate | Watch footing on rocky sections, especially spring |
| 🌡️ Summer Heat | Moderate | Shade available but carry 2L+ water |
| 🧭 Trail Navigation | Low | Well-marked but carry trail map for backcountry |
📸 Photography Guide: Best Shots at Hawn State Park
• Pickle Creek Shut-Ins: Long exposure (1–4 sec) with ND filter on the creek flowing through narrow rock channels. Overcast days provide the best light for the canyon’s rich greens and sandstone oranges.
• Pine Forest Canopy: Look straight up through the shortleaf pine trunks — converging lines against sky create dramatic vertical compositions. Best with overcast sky or morning mist.
• Fall Foliage on Evans Knob: Mid-October from the ridgeline overlook — the Ozark hills in full autumn color stretching to the horizon. Wide-angle for panoramic, telephoto to compress the colorful layers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hawn State Park free?
Yes. All Missouri state parks have free entrance. Camping fees range from $14–$28 per night. Backcountry camping on the Whispering Pines Trail is free with trailhead registration.
What are shut-ins?
Shut-ins are narrow channels carved through solid bedrock where creeks are “shut in” between rock walls. At Hawn, Pickle Creek flows through sandstone shut-ins, creating natural water chutes and small cascading pools.
How long is the Pickle Creek Trail?
1.6 miles. Rocky and rugged in sections, requiring proper footwear. Allow 1–2 hours to explore the sandstone formations and creek features at a relaxed pace.
Can you backpack at Hawn State Park?
Yes. The 10-mile Whispering Pines Trail (6-mile north loop + 4-mile south loop) permits backcountry camping. Register at the trailhead before departing.
How far is Hawn from St. Louis?
Approximately 80 miles (1.5 hours) south via I-55 and Highway 32. An easy day trip or weekend camping destination from the St. Louis metro area.
Can you swim at Hawn State Park?
There is no designated swimming area, but visitors commonly wade and cool off in Pickle Creek and the River Aux Vases during summer months. The sandy-bottomed creeks are shallow and generally safe for wading.
Are dogs allowed?
Yes. Leashed pets are allowed on all trails and in the campground. The rocky terrain of Pickle Creek Trail can be challenging for some dogs — consider their comfort level.
What makes the geology special?
Hawn sits on 500-million-year-old Lamotte Sandstone — some of the oldest exposed rock in Missouri. The sandstone creates unique formations including shut-ins, box canyons, and dramatic cliff faces not found elsewhere in the state.
Make it a road trip: Pair a visit with Pickle Springs Natural Area (a short drive away) or Felix Valle House State Historic Site (a short drive away).
🌲 Ready to Hike Hawn State Park?
From the shut-ins of Pickle Creek to Missouri’s finest backpacking trail, Hawn State Park delivers world-class Ozark hiking without a single entrance fee. Pack proper footwear, bring your camera, and prepare for sandstone canyons and pine forest solitude.
Wildlife & Nature
Hawn SP — 3,271 acres in the Ste. Francois Mountains — features the Whispering Pine Trail, consistently rated one of the best hikes in Missouri. The park’s shortleaf pine, sandstone canyons, and Pickle Creek support eastern collared lizards, copperheads, and wild turkeys. Scarlet tanagers nest in the canopy.
Nearby Attractions
Ste. Genevieve — 15 miles north — a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Pickle Springs NA — 5 miles south — has the “Slot” sandstone canyon. Trail of Tears SP — 20 miles south.
⛺ Camping at Hawn State Park: Campgrounds & Cabins
| Campsites | Main campground: basic, electric (50-amp available) and five reservable walk-in tent-only sites (open year-round, reservable Mar 1-Nov 30, showers/water Apr 1-Oct 31). Separate backcountry backpack camping on Spanish Land Grant Trail (individual sites plus one backpack group site, max occupancy 16, year-round) and on Whispering Pine Trail (backpack sites, year-round). |
|---|---|
| Pets | Recommended no more than two dogs per campsite; leashes no longer than 10 feet at all times; portable fences, shock collars and similar devices do not meet requirements; pets barred from buildings (except Cabins for Canines units), swimming areas and fishing waters. |
| Reservations | Reserve up to 12 months in advance online or by phone, 877-ICampMO (877-422-6766). Walk-up registration available if a site is unreserved. Camping limited to any 15 days within a 30-consecutive-day period. Non-campers may use a vacant electric site to charge an EV for up to one hour for a $5 fee. |
| Special sites | Separate special-use group camping area (up to 50 people, nonprofit organizations and youth groups have priority). Park gates close 10 p.m. Sunday-Thursday and 11 p.m. Friday-Saturday; campers must arrive before gate closure. |
| Season notes | Main campground reservable Mar 1-Nov 30; showers/water Apr 1-Oct 31; off-season potable water available behind campsites 41 and 100 and near the fee booth. Backcountry sites available year-round. |
Camping questions about Hawn State Park
Can you camp at Hawn State Park?
Main campground: basic, electric (50-amp available) and five reservable walk-in tent-only sites (open year-round, reservable Mar 1-Nov 30, showers/water Apr 1-Oct 31). Separate backcountry backpack camping on Spanish Land Grant Trail (individual sites plus one backpack group site, max occupancy 16, year-round) and on Whispering Pine Trail (backpack sites, year-round).
How do you reserve a campsite at Hawn State Park?
Reserve up to 12 months in advance online or by phone, 877-ICampMO (877-422-6766). Walk-up registration available if a site is unreserved. Camping limited to any 15 days within a 30-consecutive-day period. Non-campers may use a vacant electric site to charge an EV for up to one hour for a $5 fee.
Are pets allowed at the Hawn State Park campground?
Recommended no more than two dogs per campsite; leashes no longer than 10 feet at all times; portable fences, shock collars and similar devices do not meet requirements; pets barred from buildings (except Cabins for Canines units), swimming areas and fishing waters.
Source: mostateparks.com (verified July 2026). Details change seasonally — confirm when booking.
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Hawn State Park
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Responsible pet owners and their pets are welcome in Missouri state parks and historic sites, with pets leashed and under control.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- Leash not longer than 10 feet required at all times; portable fences and shock collars do not satisfy the requirement.
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- Pets are not allowed in public swimming areas or on beaches.
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- The 'Cabins for Canines' program opens about 30% of lodging units to dogs (max two dogs per unit) at roughly 15 participating parks including Lake of the Ozarks, Bennett Spring, Echo Bluff and Roaring River; per-dog per-night fee varies by unit type.
- Pet fees statewide rule
- No day-use pet fee; Cabins for Canines charges a per-dog, per-night lodging fee (varies by unit).
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- Maximum two dogs per campsite; pets not allowed inside any park building.
Are dogs allowed at Hawn State Park?
Responsible pet owners and their pets are welcome in Missouri state parks and historic sites, with pets leashed and under control. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via mostateparks.com. More: Missouri state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
Park Location
Plan your gear for Hawn State Park
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
