PARK INFORMATION
Hike a trail back into history. Big Sugar Creek State Park is a rugged landscape of rare shrubs and trees not often seen anymore in Missouri. Visitors can find solitude in hiking through shady upland woodlands and sunny grassy glades while passing near numerous rock ledges. Notable plants such as the Ozark Chinquapin tree and low prickly pear cactus can be found along with animals such as armadillos and birds such as scarlet tanagers.According to the Missouri State Department of Natural Resources, "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.
Go to https://mostateparks.com/park/big-sugar-creek-state-park for more information.
Big Sugar Creek State Park is located in southwest Missouri, about five miles east of Pineville, near the Arkansas border. This 2,082-acre park is known for its rich biodiversity, featuring steep hills, deep hollows, and clear streams. The park is particularly notable for its dolomite glades, providing a unique habitat for a variety of plant and animal species. Recreational activities at the park include hiking, picnicking, and bird-watching, with trails like the Ozark Chinquapin Trail offering scenic views of the rugged terrain.
Flying a Drone at Big Sugar Creek State Park
# Legality- Missouri State Parks Regulations: Generally, flying a drone in Missouri State Parks is prohibited unless you have a special permit issued by the Missouri Department of Natural Resources. You should check with the specific park or the department for any updates or special provisions.
# Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Regulations- LANCE Authorization: LANCE (Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability) authorization is generally required if the park falls within controlled airspace. However, Big Sugar Creek State Park is located in a more remote area, likely outside controlled airspace. You can verify this with FAA resources or apps like the FAA’s B4UFLY app.
Considerations for Drone Flying1. Permits: As mentioned, you'll likely need a permit from the Missouri Department of Natural Resources to fly a drone in the park.2. Leave No Trace: Always adhere to "Leave No Trace" principles to minimize your impact on the environment.3. Respect Wildlife and Visitors: Ensure your drone flying does not disturb wildlife or other visitors to the park.4. Safety: Prioritize safety by following FAA guidelines for drone operation, which include maintaining line of sight, not flying over people, and staying below 400 feet.
How to Obtain a Permit- Visit the Missouri Department of Natural Resources website or contact the park office for the latest information on obtaining a drone permit.
ConclusionBig Sugar Creek State Park offers stunning natural beauty that could make for spectacular drone footage. However, it is crucial to obtain the necessary permits and follow state and federal regulations to ensure your drone flying is both legal and respectful of the park's pristine environment.
Big Sugar Creek State Park, 6727 Big Sugar Creek Rd, Pineville, MO 64856, USA
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