PARK INFORMATION
ATTENTION, CAMPERS: During the off-season (November through March), showerhouses are closed, and water is off at full-hookup sites. Potable water is available from the frost-free spigot at the dump station.
Gain a better understanding of one of the saddest chapters in American history at Trail of Tears State Park, where nine of the 13 Cherokee Indian groups being relocated to Oklahoma crossed the Mississippi River during harsh winter conditions in 1838 and 1839. The park’s visitor center tells the tale of the thousands who died on the forced march, as well as the park’s many natural features. The park also has a cheerier side: shaded picnic sites, hiking and horse trails, opportunities to fish in both the Mississippi River and Lake Boutin, and majestic views of the Mississippi River and beyond. Its location right on the river makes the park one of the best places in Missouri for viewing migratory waterfowl.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/trail-tears-state-park for more information.
Trail of Tears State Park is a significant and poignant historical site located in southeast Missouri along the Mississippi River. The park commemorates the tragic relocation of the Cherokee people, known as the Trail of Tears, where thousands were forced to relocate from their ancestral lands in the southeastern United States to areas west of the Mississippi River. The park features a visitor center with exhibits about the Cherokee culture and the Trail of Tears journey, as well as hiking trails, picnic areas, and scenic overlooks with views of the river and surrounding landscape.
Is it Worth Flying a Drone There?Trail of Tears State Park offers some picturesque landscapes, including forested areas, bluffs, and expansive views of the Mississippi River, which could make for some stunning aerial photography or videography. However, whether it's worth flying a drone there depends on a combination of factors including your interest in capturing historical and natural scenery and adherence to the park's regulations and guidelines.
Am I Legally Allowed to Fly a Drone There?Drone usage in Missouri State Parks, including Trail of Tears State Park, is generally restricted. As of my last update in October 2023, the Missouri State Parks system typically does not allow drone operations without special permission. These regulations are primarily in place to ensure visitor safety, maintain privacy, and protect wildlife.
Do I Need LAANC Authorization?The Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability (LAANC) is a system used to manage airspace authorization for drone flights near airports and controlled airspaces. Trail of Tears State Park is located relatively far from major airports, so LAANC authorization may not be required specifically for this location. However, it’s always a good idea to check the current airspace classification via resources like the FAA’s B4UFLY app to ensure you are not in a controlled or restricted airspace that might require LAANC or other FAA authorizations.
Anything Else I Need to Know?- Park-Specific Permissions: If you are set on flying a drone, contact the park administration directly to request special permission. This usually involves detailing the purpose of your drone flight and agreeing to specific terms and conditions.- General Drone Regulations: Follow general FAA guidelines for small unmanned aircraft systems (Part 107 rules), including keeping the drone within visual line of sight, not flying over people, and respecting altitude limits and no-fly zones.- Privacy and Safety: Always prioritize the privacy and safety of other park visitors and wildlife. Avoid flying near crowded areas and nesting sites.- Alternative Locations: If permissions are not granted for Trail of Tears State Park, consider other locations where drone flying is explicitly allowed.Before planning your visit, it's highly recommended to check the most up-to-date regulations and policies with both Missouri State Parks and the FAA to ensure compliance and avoid any potential fines or issues.
Trail of Tears State Park, 429 Moccasin Springs Rd, Jackson, MO 63755, USA
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