For your trip, you can focus on two distinct experiences: the history of lead mining at the Missouri Mines State Historic Site in Park Hills, and water-based activities and trails at St. Joe State Park. When choosing where to stay, consider whether you mainly want to explore the exhibits or set aside time for outdoor activities.
Mining History at the Missouri Mines State Historic Site
The Missouri Mines State Historic Site tells the story of lead mining in the region. The museum is housed in the mine’s former powerhouse. The historic site also includes the former processing plant of St. Joe Lead Co. Buildings and artifacts from the largest mining and processing complex in the Old Lead Belt are preserved here. The exhibits also explain the importance of mineral resources and mining to Missouri.
You can explore the museum at your own pace; if you wish, a docent can provide a more detailed, personal explanation of the exhibits. Visitors can buy museum tickets at the entrance and join a guided tour. If you plan to take a tour or receive a personal explanation, check the latest operating details before your visit.
The mineral gallery displays around 1,100 mineral specimens from locations around the world in 27 large cases. On its south side, a small theater—or orientation room—shows a 12-minute video about historic underground mining and ore processing in the Old Lead Belt. The Powerhouse Museum also has a room with fluorescent minerals that glow in vivid colors under ultraviolet black light.
Mining technology is also brought to life through specific exhibits: a gallery displays equipment used in underground mining in the Old Lead Belt, including a one-ton ore car and a 15-ton electric trolley locomotive. The exhibit also features the St. Joe Shovel. Only 52 of these shovels were made; the first was produced around 1922.
Water and Trails at St. Joe State Park
At Monsanto Lake, an aquatic interpretive trail passes stations that explain cultural and natural features of the park. Topics include a dolomite glade, native grasses, and shortleaf pines. The stations combine information about the landscape and its plants: the trail not only runs alongside the water but also highlights features of the park’s natural environment.
The four lakes at St. Joe State Park can be reached via gravel boat ramps that are open year-round. Human-powered boats and boats with electric trolling motors are permitted; gasoline-powered motors are not allowed. If you’re planning a boating trip, follow these rules and check the latest ramp and safety information before your visit.
Hiking, Biking, and Other Options
The Interpretive Trail at the Missouri Mines State Historic Site is considered easy and is one mile long. Its sections consist of gravel or paved paths. The Donnelly-LaMear Trailhead is at the Fairgrounds Drive exit off Highway 67 and provides access to the St. Joe State Park ORV area and a paved bike trail. Check the latest information in advance about entrance operations and any required permits.
Another facility at St. Joe State Park is a large flying field with a grass runway for radio-controlled aircraft. A local organization maintains the runway. Together with the boat ramps, aquatic interpretive trail, and various paths, this area illustrates the variety of recreational options available, from nature observation and hiking to motorized and radio-controlled activities.
Discover more destinations: Farmington, Bonne Terre.
For the main travel overview: St. Francois County.
