Mastodon State Historic Site
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Mastodon State Historic Site

4.7
·2k reviews·Imperial, United States

Explore Ice Age fossils and hike scenic trails at Mastodon State Historic Site, a Missouri gem for history and nature lovers.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Pleasant weather for hiking

CrowdLow
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Mastodon State Historic Site

Mastodon State Historic Site

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Pleasant weather for hiking

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore Ice Age fossils and hike scenic trails at Mastodon State Historic Site, a Missouri gem for history and nature lovers.

4.7
(2k reviews)

"Fantastic place with so much history and nice displays. Great hiking trails and knowledgeable staff."

Vertical photo
TIP

🥾 Hike the Trails

Enjoy the well-maintained mastodon state historic site trails for a peaceful walk and to explore the natural beauty.

🏛️ Visit the Museum

The museum is small but packed with fascinating history about the mastodon discoveries.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Pleistocene Fossil Deposits

Pleistocene Fossil Deposits

Witness the ancient evidence of mastodons and other Ice Age creatures discovered right here in Missouri.

Museum Exhibits

Museum Exhibits

Explore a small but informative museum showcasing artifacts and information about the site's unique paleontological history.

Scenic Hiking Trails

Scenic Hiking Trails

Wander through beautiful natural landscapes on well-maintained trails, perfect for a leisurely walk or a more active hike.

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Planning Your Visit

Plan Your Fossil Adventure

Discover Missouri's prehistoric past at Mastodon State Historic Site. Explore ancient fossil deposits, hike scenic trails, and visit the museum. Perfect for history buffs and nature lovers.

Best Times to Visit

Visit during spring or fall for pleasant weather on the mastodon state historic site trails. Weekdays offer fewer crowds, allowing for a more immersive experience with the exhibits and natural beauty.

Best Times

When
Spring & Fall mornings
Why
Pleasant weather for hiking
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds at museum
Crowd
Low
When
Summer weekends
Why
Creek access for families
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Is Mastodon park worth visiting?

🥾 Hike the Trails

Enjoy the well-maintained mastodon state historic site trails for a peaceful walk and to explore the natural beauty. Reddit

🏛️ Visit the Museum

The museum is small but packed with fascinating history about the mastodon discoveries. Reddit

reddit.com

Mastodon State Historic Site

👨‍👩‍👧 Family Creek Fun

Head to the creek in summer for shallow, cool water perfect for kids to play in. Reddit

🧺 Picnic Spots

Plenty of picnic tables are available, making it a great spot for a family lunch. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🥾 Hike the Trails

Enjoy the well-maintained mastodon state historic site trails for a peaceful walk and to explore the natural beauty. Reddit

🏛️ Visit the Museum

The museum is small but packed with fascinating history about the mastodon discoveries. Reddit

👨‍👩‍👧 Family Creek Fun

Head to the creek in summer for shallow, cool water perfect for kids to play in. Reddit

🧺 Picnic Spots

Plenty of picnic tables are available, making it a great spot for a family lunch. Reddit

🚗 Easy Access

Good parking is available, and the grounds are kept very clean. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Mastodon State Historic Site for its historical significance, educational museum, and beautiful natural setting with well-maintained trails. Many appreciate the free admission and family-friendly atmosphere, especially the creek area during summer. Some note the visitor center's occasional closures.

"Fantastic place with so much history and nice displays. Great hiking trails and knowledgeable staff. Enjoyed the movie shown as well. Hard to believe right here in Missouri the ancient artifacts and information available."

Carla Foldy

"I've been taking my kids here for many years and still find surprises. This is a wonderful place with a park and nice trails. More and more people go down to the creek in the summer to hang out with their children because the water is shallow and the creek is a beautiful place."

Tanisha Wilson

"Rating is for the park and creek, as the visitor’s center was closed until further notice. The playground was a good size. Plenty of picnic tables available and a decent size parking lot. The entire grounds were very clean- hardly any trash anywhere."

Cadence Giddings

What People Like

Rich history and fossils
Nice hiking trails
Educational museum

What People Dislike

Visitor center closures

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Mastodon State Historic Site is located in Imperial, Missouri. It's easily accessible by car. Check your GPS for the most direct route from your starting point. Parking is generally ample within the site. Reddit

Public transportation options to Mastodon State Historic Site may be limited. It's best to plan your visit with a personal vehicle or rideshare service for convenient access. Reddit

While specific directions vary, the site is generally found off major roadways in the Imperial, MO area. Using a navigation app is recommended. Reddit

Yes, there is a decent-sized parking lot available at Mastodon State Historic Site, making it easy to access the trails and visitor center. Reddit

While possible, biking to the site might depend on your starting location and local road conditions. The site itself offers excellent biking trails. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the park grounds and trails at Mastodon State Historic Site is typically free. There may be a small fee for special exhibits or programs, but general admission is usually complimentary. Reddit

Operating hours can vary, especially for the visitor center and museum. It's advisable to check the official Mastodon State Historic Site website or call ahead for the most current hours of operation. Reddit

The visitor's center at Mastodon State Historic Site has been closed at times, so it's crucial to verify its current status before your visit. Reddit

Generally, there are no entrance fees for Mastodon State Historic Site, allowing for free access to the park and its natural attractions. Reddit

Since general admission is free, advance ticket booking is not usually necessary for Mastodon State Historic Site. However, for specific events or tours, it's best to inquire directly. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The mastodon state historic site trails are generally considered great for hiking. Visitors enjoy the natural beauty and the opportunity to explore the park's landscape. Reddit

You can see extensive Pleistocene-age fossil deposits, explore hiking trails, enjoy picnic sites, and visit a small but nice museum with historical artifacts. Reddit+1

Yes, it's a wonderful place for kids! They can enjoy the park, hike trails, and in the summer, play in the shallow creek. The museum is also educational. Reddit

Yes, there is a playground at Mastodon State Historic Site that is a good size for children to enjoy. Reddit

While the focus is on prehistoric life, you might encounter common local wildlife like birds and small mammals during your visit to the park. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no restaurants located directly within Mastodon State Historic Site. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own food for picnics. Reddit

Absolutely! Mastodon State Historic Site has plenty of picnic tables available, making it an ideal spot for a family picnic. Reddit

You'll likely need to travel a short distance outside the park to find restaurants and food vendors in nearby towns like Imperial. Reddit

It's recommended to pack your own snacks and meals, as dining options are limited. Water is also essential, especially during warmer months. Reddit

Currently, there is no cafe or snack bar operating within Mastodon State Historic Site. Plan to bring all your food and drinks. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture mastodon state historic site photos along the scenic trails, near the creek, and of the museum exhibits. The natural landscapes offer beautiful backdrops. Reddit

Photography policies can vary. It's best to check with the museum staff upon arrival regarding whether photos are permitted inside, especially without flash. Reddit

Generally, personal photography for non-commercial use is allowed in outdoor areas. Be mindful of any posted signs or staff instructions. Reddit

Expect to take photos of lush greenery, flowing creeks, and potentially educational displays within the museum, offering a mix of nature and history. Reddit+1

Yes, the trails and natural setting make it a good location for nature photography, especially during the spring and fall when the foliage is at its best. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Mastodon State Historic Site is a fantastic destination for families. The small but nice museum offers educational content that can spark curiosity in children about dinosaurs and ancient history. Outside, the playground provides a fun space for kids to burn off energy. Reddit+1

During warmer months, the shallow creek is a major draw, offering a safe and enjoyable place for children to splash and play. The hiking trails are also suitable for family walks, allowing everyone to explore the natural beauty of the park together. Pack a picnic to make a full day of it, as there are plenty of picnic tables available. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, Mastodon State Historic Site is an excellent choice. General admission to the park and trails is typically free, making it an affordable way to spend a day exploring history and nature. Reddit

While the museum is small, it offers significant educational value without a hefty price tag. Bringing your own picnic lunch is also a great way to save money, as there are ample picnic sites available. The free access to trails and the creek area ensures a full day of enjoyment without breaking the bank. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Unearthing Prehistoric Wonders

Mastodon State Historic Site is a treasure trove for anyone fascinated by paleontology. It's renowned for its extensive Pleistocene-age fossil deposits, which include the remains of mastodons, mammoths, and other Ice Age megafauna. The discovery of evidence of human coexistence with mastodons here is particularly significant, making it a key site for understanding early North American history. The museum, though small, offers a compelling glimpse into these ancient discoveries, featuring artifacts and informative displays that bring the prehistoric world to life. Reddit

Visitors often praise the site for its educational value and the unique opportunity to connect with such ancient history. The staff are noted for being knowledgeable and helpful, enhancing the learning experience. It’s a place where you can truly feel the weight of millennia and imagine the landscape as it was thousands of years ago. Reddit+1

Exploring the Fossil Beds



While direct access to the main fossil beds might be restricted for preservation, the site's interpretive programs and museum exhibits provide excellent insights. The significance of this location lies in its scientific contributions to understanding the Ice Age and the early inhabitants of North America. It’s a must-visit for amateur paleontologists and curious minds alike. Reddit

Hiking and Outdoor Recreation

Beyond its paleontological significance, Mastodon State Historic Site offers a delightful natural escape with its network of hiking trails. These trails wind through scenic woodlands and along the creek, providing a refreshing outdoor experience for visitors of all fitness levels. The mastodon state historic site trails are well-maintained, making them suitable for leisurely strolls, family walks, and more vigorous hikes. Reddit

Many visitors highlight the enjoyment of hiking here, describing it as a 'great' and 'chill' experience. The natural beauty of the park, especially during spring and fall, makes it an ideal destination for nature photography and simply enjoying the outdoors. The creek area is also a popular spot, particularly in the summer, offering a cool and shallow environment for children to play and families to relax. Reddit+1

Trail Highlights



While specific trail names might vary, the general consensus is that the trails offer a pleasant immersion in nature. They provide opportunities to observe local flora and fauna and appreciate the serene environment. Remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring water, especially for longer hikes. Reddit

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