Route 66 State Park

I don't know what I was expecting, but it wasn't it. The Route 66 State Park sits where Times Beach once was. The town of Times Beach was evacuated in 1983 after a severe dioxin contamination that was used to spray the roads. The combination of the mixture was used in Agent Orange. Extensive cleanup took place and the Route 66 State Park opened in 1999.

We were looking for a restroom while on our trip. I decided we'd stop by here instead of thr run-of-the-mill gas station. I was very glad we did because this is a hidden gem. The gentleman working was very pleasant, and so knowledgeable on the area. (The beautiful mustang photo'd was his 1967 Ford Mustang, although he said he wished it was a '66) Loved this place and got some nice souvenirs.

The former Times Beach, MO that was decimated by dioxin poisoning and cleaned up by the government in the 90’s. Nice, peaceful walks through the land, going to and along the Meramec River and back. I wouldn’t thought there’d be signs or something commemorating Times Beach but there is nothing, like no one wants to remember it which I found sad.

This park is peaceful and a good concrete road to do whatever you like to do walk, bike,or skate. Animals are welcome just pick up after them. You can walk in the woods and follow the trail or walk on the concrete. Either way it's really quiet.

Interesting historic place. Liked the small historic "Museum" about that part of the road 66. The park it self is really nice but we didnt camp or use it. Just made a pitstop to check it out. Had been nice with as one refreshmet or icecream

Great park! Easy hiking. Hope the funding is found soon for the bridge. It's an iconic part of history. Having both sections of the park connected would be very convenient. We were sad the Museum was closed when we were there on 6/6/2023

This is a relatively scenic area. There are lots of paved walking and biking trails throughout the park. Not a lot of shade, but mostly level. We accidentally followed directions to the visitors center, and and had to get back on the highway to reach the actual park where the trails are. They handed us a slip of paper with these directions: 1-44 west to exit 264. Left on MO-109. Left on I-44 East ramp to exit 265. Left on South Outer Road to park entrance.

This is a very nice, clean park with great pavilions for gathering and very clean toilet facilities.