Trail of Tears State Park
A Place of Remembrance
Trail of Tears State Park memorializes the tragic forced relocation of Cherokee people in 1838–39. This crossing point on the Mississippi River saw thousands pass during the brutal winter march. The visitor center tells their story.
Camping
| Campground | Sites | Season |
|---|---|---|
| Mississippi River | 18 (7 full hookup, 11 electric) | Year-round |
| Lake Boutin | 34 primitive | May–October |
| Backpacker | Primitive | Year-round |
Reservations: mostateparks.com or (877) 422-6766.
Trails
10+ miles of trails including the Peewah Trail (10 mi loop), Lake Trail, and Shepherd of the Hills Trail with Mississippi River bluff views.
Lake Boutin
35-acre lake with fishing (bass, bluegill, channel catfish) and seasonal swimming beach.
Why is it called Trail of Tears?
The park marks where Cherokee people crossed the Mississippi River during their forced removal from ancestral lands in 1838–39. Thousands died along the route, earning it the name “Trail of Tears.”
Things to Do
Missouri state parks protect an impressive variety of Ozark landscapes — spring-fed rivers with crystal-clear water, dramatic shut-ins (narrow volcanic rock gorges), extensive cave systems, forested bluffs along the Ozark Trail, and managed prairies. Activities include hiking some of the Midwest’s most scenic trails, swimming and floating in cold, clear Ozark springs and rivers, fishing for trout in spring-fed streams, camping in forested river valleys, caving on guided tours, mountain biking, horseback riding, kayaking, and exploring Civil War and frontier-era historic sites. Missouri’s springs — including Big Spring and Alley Spring — are among the largest and most beautiful in the country.
Best Time to Visit
Missouri parks are a three-season destination with winter hiking as abonus. Spring (March–May) brings dogwood and redbud blooms, rushing waterfalls, and comfortable temperatures. Summer (June–August) is peak season for floating, swimming, and camping — the Current and Jacks Fork Rivers are iconic summer float trips. Fall (September–November) delivers excellent Ozark foliage peaking mid-October, with comfortable hiking weather. Winter offers peaceful trail experiences and is ideal for cave tours (caves maintain 56°F year-round). All Missouri state parks are free — no entrance fees or vehicle passes required.
Visitor Tips
All Missouri state parks are free to visit — no entrance fees or vehicle permits required. Camping fees are modest and vary by facility. Reservations are made through mostateparks.com. Cave tours at parks like Onondaga Cave, Meramec Caverns, and Ozark Caverns require separate tickets and often sell out on weekends — reserve in advance. Float trip parks along the Current and Jacks Fork Rivers get very busy on summer weekends. Cell service is limited in the Ozarks backcountry.
Explore More Missouri State Parks
Trail of Tears State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in Missouri. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Missouri guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
