PARK INFORMATION
Mastodon State Historic Site contains an important archaeological and paleontological site: the Kimmswick Bone Bed. Here, scientists discovered the first solid evidence of the coexistence of humans and the American mastodon in eastern North America.
Today, visitors can learn about this discovery and how the landscape of Missouri looked in prehistoric times. The site features a museum with an interpretive video, displays of ancient artifacts and fossils, and an impressive mastodon skeleton replica. Programs explain more about the significance of the site.
For anyone wanting to stretch their legs, the site offers three trails, including one that leads to the site where the bones and artifacts were found. The park also offers picnic sites, a picnic shelter, a playground, a special-use area for organized youth groups, and a wildflower garden that attracts birds and butterflies.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/mastodon-state-historic-site for more information.
Mastodon State Historic Site is a unique location in Missouri that offers both natural beauty and significant archaeological and paleontological history. Located in Jefferson County, about 20 miles south of St. Louis, this site covers approximately 431 acres and sits near the scenic banks of the Big River.
Key Features:1. Kimmswick Bone Bed: This is one of the most prominent features, where evidence of pre-historic animals such as the American Mastodon has been discovered. The bone bed has yielded numerous artifacts and fossils, suggesting that the site was a prehistoric hunting ground. 2. Museum and Interpretive Center: The park houses a museum that showcases the paleontological finds from the region. Exhibits include fossils, artifacts, and educational displays about the life and environment of the American Mastodon and other ancient creatures. 3. Hiking Trails: For nature enthusiasts, the site features a couple of well-maintained trails like the Wildflower Trail and the Limestone Hill Trail, providing varying levels of difficulty and scenic overlooks.
Drone Usage:When it comes to flying drones at Mastodon State Historic Site, you should consider several factors:1. State Park Regulations: The site is managed by the Missouri Department of Natural Resources, and generally, Missouri State Parks have strict regulations against flying drones. It's crucial to check directly with the site management or the Missouri Department of Natural Resources for any park-specific rules.2. FAA Rules and LANCE Authorization: Regardless of state rules, flying drones in the U.S. is subject to Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations. If the area falls within controlled airspace, you would need to use the Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability (LAANC) to gain approval for your flight. You can check the FAA's B4UFLY app or their website to determine if you need authorization and if the area is restricted.3. Park Permits: Even if allowed, you might require a special permit to fly a drone in the area. This is generally true for filming and professional photography as well.
Additional Considerations:- Public and Wildlife Safety: Always prioritize the safety of other park visitors and the surrounding wildlife. Disturbing wildlife or people is both unethical and usually against park rules. - Leave No Trace: Like any natural area, it's essential to follow the Leave No Trace principles to preserve the natural beauty and historical significance of the site for future generations.To conclude, while Mastodon State Historic Site is a beautiful and historically rich location, it is unlikely that you will be able to legally fly a drone there given the general restrictions in Missouri State Parks and the need for both state and potentially FAA approval. Always verify the most current regulations and obtain necessary permissions before attempting to fly a drone in any area.
Mastodon State Historic Site, 1050 Charles J Becker Dr, Imperial, MO 63052, USA
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