Missouri State Parks and Historic Sites

In this stunning book, four accomplished writers and lifelong conservationists team up with keen-eyed photographers to capture the compelling history, beauty, and recreational value of Missouri's unique state park system, one that has been ranked among the top four in the nation. The book features hundreds of photographs and includes information on all 88 state parks and historic sites, including the longest developed rails-to-trail project in the nation, homes of famous Missourians, Civil War battlefields, and other reminders of the past such as mills and covered bridges. The authors tell the complete story of the park system, from its inception in 1917 to the newest state park created in 2015, encompassing much of Missouri's history as well as its scenic and varied landscape.
"Missouri State Parks and Historic Sites is a visual treasure trove and a cultural and historical exposition of one of the most heralded state park systems in the United States. With over 400 pages incredible photography and essays written by qualified academic experts in the fields of natural resources, geology, anthropology and history, this book sets a new standard in beauty and authenticity. Readers will find this a fun and captivating way to explore all 88 Missouri State Parks and Historic Sites. The book explores the six natural divisions formed by Missouri's natural landscape and geology including: Ozarks, Ozark Border, Mississippi Lowlands, Big Rivers, Osage Plains and Glaciated Plains. The Missouri state park system began in 1917 and encompasses much of Missouri's history as well as Missouri scenic beauty"--Amazon.com.