Missouri Is Home To A Hidden State Park With Lakeside Beauty, Hiking Trails, And Top-Notch Camping

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In southeastern Missouri, outdoor enthusiasts can find a peaceful retreat filled with lush woodlands, winding trails, and miles of serene lakefront views. Boating, fishing, and kayaking are just a few of the ways to experience Lake Wappapello State Park, truly making it a "choose your own adventure" destination. Whether traveling solo, with your significant other, or the whole family, a trip to Lake Wappapello State Park is a refreshing reset away from city life.

While the lake is beautiful year-round, summer is when most visitors plan their trips. During these months, the lake comes alive with water sports, camping, and warm temperatures that make a dip in the water feel wonderful. During the off-peak seasons of spring and fall in Wappapello, there are fewer crowds, milder temperatures, and colorful autumn foliage to enjoy. Winter on the lake is quieter and ideal for those seeking solitude more than recreation.

Packing for Wappapello is all part of the adventure. Even if the forecast predicts clear, sunny skies, it's helpful to bring items like a rain jacket, sturdy hiking shoes with good traction, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunscreen. You'll also want to pack a pair of binoculars for birdwatching and a camera to capture images of wildlife and scenic backdrops. To make the most of your trip, you'll want to bring along the best gear for taking a hike on vacation.

Adventure knows no bounds at Lake Wappapello. If you're new to hiking, you're in luck, because Lake Wappapello is not among the U.S. National Park trails that are only for experienced hikers. Beginners can start with the Asher Creek Trail, an easy two-mile loop taking you past creeks, forested hills, and postcard-worthy vantage points. The Lake View Trail, a just over half-mile loop along the lake and a great one for spotting local birds, is another great choice for beginners. For something more challenging, set out on the Lake Wappapello Trail, which spans 12.75 miles and includes a few rocky sections and gentle inclines.

Water-based activities in Wappapello are just as thrilling. For those who have wanted to try stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), now's your chance. The lake's calm, flat waters make it easy for beginners to balance on their boards without the waves you'd typically find at the beach. Kayaking and canoeing are other popular activities, and the park offers on-site canoe rentals.

For travelers visiting Lake Wappapello from out of state, look for flights landing in Cape Girardeau Regional Airport (CGI). From there, it's a 72-mile drive to Wappapello, which takes about 1.5 hours without traffic. Because Wappapello is a rural area with no public bus service, renting a car at the airport is the easiest way to get around. Alternatively, you could rent a campervan from a local rental company and pair it with a stay at a campground. There's no doubt that Lake Wappapello is a lesser-known RV destination in America, where you can easily avoid crowds.

If you're not quite ready for a full-on campervan experience, there are plenty of nearby accommodations located outside Lake Wappapello State Park. The Drury Inn & Suites Poplar Bluff, highly rated on Booking, is about a 25-minute drive from the park. Rooms are basic but comfortable, and guests can enjoy free on-site parking, an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness center, and more. Also in Poplar Bluff, the Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott offers modern rooms with many of the same amenities.

For the best of both worlds, book a stay at Totten's Lakeside Marina & Resort, situated directly on Lake Wappapello. Cabins are simple but come equipped with everything you need for a few nights away, including a television, a charcoal grill/smoker for cooking meals, and free Wi-Fi to stay connected with friends and family back home. Guests also have access to community fire pits and a swimming pool.