Laws and Regulations
General Park Rules
- Missouri state parks are generally open from sunrise to sunset for those not camping or staying in park lodging Historic site hours vary; please call 1-800-334-6946, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., or visit mostateparks.com, for operating hours.
- Alcoholic beverages are prohibited on beaches and in parking areas and off-road-vehicle areas in all state parks and historic sites.
- No hunting or discharging of firearms is permitted.
- Fireworks of any kind are prohibited within the boundaries of any state park.
- Removal of plants, animals, rocks, downed timber, artifacts or relics is prohibited without written permission from the state park director.
- Some parks have gates that close each evening. Be sure to contact the park if you plan to arrive late to ensure your entrance into the park or campground.
- Pets must be kept on leashes no longer than 10 feet and under control at all times. Pets, other than service dogs used by people with disabilities, are not allowed inside any state park or historic building, in public swimming areas and beaches, in waters reserved for fishing or in certain limited areas. Pet waste bags are available in most locations and should be used for cleanup. Click here for more information.
Special Management Regulations
Laws and Regulations
Terms
- The term "statute" generally means an act or law passed by a legislative body, such as the Missouri General Assembly or the United States Congress.
- The term "regulation" generally means a rule or standard that has the force of law once promulgated by an administrative agency within its statutory authority. Sometimes referred to as a "Rule."
State regulations are developed through the rulemaking process, by departments or commissions given such authority by statute.
Division of State Parks Rules in Development
State Regulations
State Laws
Federal Laws
For More Information
Want to fly your drone? There are no laws prohibiting drones on state park grounds, but we do ask that you keep it to the main, open day-use areas and be respectful of other visitors in the park. If you will be taking photos for professional use or sale, there would be a process to go through to gain approval for that.
Copies of these state and federal laws can be viewed at the Department of Natural Resources' Jefferson City office, the Missouri State Library, U.S. Depository Libraries and most public libraries.