PARK INFORMATION
The Meramec River flows by majestic bluffs, wooded areas and a dramatic cave entrance. More than 13 miles of hiking trails are available for exploring the park, and visitors can swim, fish, raft and boat in the river. A modern campground, cabins and motel give visitors a choice to stay the night or even longer. Exhibits in the visitor center interpret the natural and cultural features of the park. No visit to the park would be complete without a tour of Fisher Cave with handheld lights. 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/meramec-state-park for more information.
Meramec State Park, located near Sullivan, Missouri, is a scenic area known for its diverse natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. The park spans over 6,896 acres and features the Meramec River, which is popular for activities like canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. Other attractions include hiking trails, picnic areas, and the Fisher Cave, a notable cave system that offers guided tours.
Drone Use in Meramec State ParkIs it worth flying a drone there?The picturesque landscape, dense forests, and the winding Meramec River can be very compelling subjects for aerial photography and videography, making it worth considering if you're looking to capture natural beauty from above.Am I legally allowed to fly a drone there?As of the latest information, drone use in Missouri State Parks, including Meramec State Park, is generally prohibited without special permissions. The use of drones can disrupt wildlife and other park guests, so park management is typically stringent about such activities.To operate a drone legally within Meramec State Park, you would generally need to obtain a special use permit from the Missouri Department of Natural Resources. These permits are typically reserved for educational or research purposes, and commercial filming or photography may require additional permissions.Do I need LAANC authorization?The Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability (LAANC) is a system used to give drone operators near real-time airspace authorizations around participating airports. Meramec State Park is not located in close proximity to major airports that typically require LAANC authorization. However, it's always important to check the specific airspace class via a tool like the FAA's B4UFLY app or another airspace map to confirm whether LAANC authorization is needed.Anything else I need to know?- Check Current Regulations: Before planning your drone flight, make sure to review the latest regulations from both the FAA and the Missouri Department of Natural Resources. Regulations can change, and it's essential to stay up-to-date.- Respect Wildlife and Privacy: Ensure that your drone use does not disturb wildlife or invade the privacy of other park visitors.- Safety First: Always practice safe drone operations, including maintaining line-of-sight with your drone, keeping it below 400 feet, and avoiding flying over people or sensitive areas.- Be Prepared for Alternatives: If you cannot obtain the necessary permissions to fly within Meramec State Park, consider flying in nearby areas that allow drone use, although this would mean missing some of the unique features of the park itself.Remember, while drones offer unique perspectives, the rules and regulations are in place to ensure safety and a positive experience for all park-goers. Always fly responsibly and within the guidelines provided.
Meramec State Park, 115 Meramec Park Drive, Sullivan, MO 63080, USA
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