According to the Missouri 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."
Don Robinson State Park, located in the northern part of Jefferson County, Missouri, spans over 800 acres of diverse and scenic landscapes. The park features remarkable sandstone canyons, towering cliffs, glades, woodlands, and scenic overlooks that showcase the beauty of Missouri's natural environment. Visitors can explore various hiking trails like the Sandstone Canyon Trail and the LaBarque Hills Trail, which offer excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing, nature photography, and geological observation.
Is it worth flying a drone there?Whether it is worth flying a drone at Don Robinson State Park largely depends on your intentions and interests. The park's striking topography and natural beauty make it an attractive location for aerial photography and videography. Capturing the sprawling landscapes, dramatic cliffs, and verdant woodlands from an aerial perspective could result in breathtaking footage.
Legality of Flying a Drone
Are You Legally Allowed to Fly a Drone There?To determine whether you're allowed to fly a drone in Don Robinson State Park, you will need to consult the following guidelines and regulations:1. Missouri State Parks Drone Policy: As of my knowledge cutoff in 2023, Missouri State Parks have a general policy against the unpermitted use of drones. You would need to confirm any changes to this policy directly with the park administration or the Missouri State Parks website for the most current information. It's possible you may need to obtain special permission or a permit.2. FAA Regulations: The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) governs airspace use and drone operations in the United States. You'll need to comply with all FAA guidelines, which includes registering your drone if it weighs more than 0.55 pounds (250 grams).
LANCE AuthorizationLAANC (Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability) authorization is generally needed for drone flight in controlled airspace, typically near airports. Checking the airspace classification surrounding Don Robinson State Park will help you determine if LAANC authorization is necessary.1. B4UFLY App: Use this FAA app to determine the current airspace designation of the park and see if you need LAANC authorization.2. AirMap: Another useful tool for checking airspace requirements and obtaining LAANC authorization.
Additional Considerations1. Privacy and Safety: Always ensure you are respecting the privacy and safety of other park visitors. Avoid flying near wildlife, crowded areas, and sensitive habitats.2. Weather: Check the weather conditions before planning your drone flight. Strong winds and bad weather can pose a risk to your drone and can result in loss or damage.3. Drone Skills: Make sure you are comfortable and experienced with flying your drone, especially in rugged and potentially challenging environments.4. Liability and Insurance: Consider having liability insurance to cover any potential accidents or damages caused by your drone.In conclusion, while the stunning landscapes of Don Robinson State Park make it an excellent candidate for aerial footage, you need to carefully consider legal requirements and safety guidelines. Always verify the most current rules and regulations before proceeding.
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