PARK INFORMATION
Some people call Grand Gulf State Park the “Little Grand Canyon.” Some just call it “breathtaking.” The park is one of the natural wonders of the Ozarks, presenting the most spectacular collapsed cave system in the Ozarks. The "Grand Gulf" stretches for about three-quarters of a mile between 130-foot-high walls. Visitors can view the gulf from trails on top or from the floor where they can walk under the natural bridge, which spans 250 feet with a 75-foot-high opening. There is no official trail leading to the bottom, so visitors should use extreme caution when attempting to access the bottom. Interpretive signs detail the formation of the gulf.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/grand-gulf-state-park for more information.
Grand Gulf State Park, located in Missouri near the Arkansas border, is renowned for its dramatic natural features, including a collapsed cave system that has created a stunning chasm known as the "Grand Gulf." This area is often referred to as the "Little Grand Canyon" of the Ozarks. The park's landscape consists of dense forests, rugged terrain, and a fascinating geological formation that offers excellent opportunities for hiking and nature exploration. The area covers about 322 acres and includes a natural bridge, striking rock formations, and a diverse array of plant and animal life.
Is it worth flying a drone there?Flying a drone at Grand Gulf State Park could potentially offer stunning aerial views of the geological formations, the collapsed cave system, and the surrounding forests. Capturing the landscape from above would certainly provide unique and breathtaking perspectives not accessible from the ground.
Am I legally allowed to fly a drone there?The legality of flying a drone in Grand Gulf State Park, like in other Missouri state parks, is subject to specific regulations. Generally, flying drones in state parks can be restricted due to safety, privacy, and wildlife disturbance concerns. It is crucial to check the most current rules and policies before planning a drone flight in any state park.
Do I need LAANC authorization?LAANC (Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability) is required for flying drones in controlled airspace, typically within 5 miles of an airport. Grand Gulf State Park lies in a more remote area of Missouri, far from major airports, so LAANC authorization might not be necessary. However, checking the airspace classification using tools like the FAA's B4UFLY app or other drone airspace maps is advisable to ensure compliance.
Anything else I need to know?1. Rules and Regulations: Always check the latest rules and regulations specific to Grand Gulf State Park and any updates from the Missouri Department of Natural Resources or other appropriate authorities. 2. Permits: Even if drones are generally allowed, some locations may require a special permit for drone activities, especially for commercial use.3. Privacy and Safety: Maintain a safe distance from people, wildlife, and park infrastructure. Respect the privacy of other visitors and ensure your drone operations do not disturb the natural habitat.4. FAA Regulations: Adhere to all FAA regulations regarding drone flight, including altitude limits (typically 400 feet above ground level), visual line-of-sight requirements, and not flying over people or moving vehicles.5. Common Sense and Etiquette: Avoid flying during busy periods. Early morning or late afternoon can be less crowded times that are also ideal for photography due to the lighting conditions.By staying informed and respectful of the rules, you can enjoy a safe and rewarding drone experience at Grand Gulf State Park.
Grand Gulf State Park, State Hwy W, Koshkonong, MO 65692, USA
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