Lewis and Clark State Park is an area full of history. The park is named for Meriwether Lewis, Secretary to President Thomas Jefferson, and Captain William Clark, United States Army, who were commissioned by President Jefferson in 1804 to head an expedition into the northwest to explore the vast territory purchased from France. With twenty-six men and supplies, Lewis and Clark led their expedition up the Missouri River from St. Louis by keelboat.
On August 9 and 10, 1804, Lewis and Clark spent time at the site where the state park is now. Please take the opportunity to view the full-size reproduction of Lewis and Clark's keelboat on display and constructed by local volunteers and park staff.
Lewis and Clark State Park lies on the shores of Blue Lake, an ox-bow formed by the meanderings of the Missouri River many years ago.
Trails
Lewis and Clark State Park is a fine place for a leisurely hike. On the trails, park visitors can see a variety of trees, shrubs, and, often, wildlife including deer, rabbits and squirrels, as well as a wide variety of bird species.
Lake Activities
The 250 acres of Blue Lake offer a variety of water-oriented recreational opportunities. The beach is a fine place for sunbathing and swimming. One double boat ramp is available for easy lake access. No restrictions are placed on motor size.
Keelboat Display
While visiting Lewis and Clark, please take the opportunity to view the full-sized reproduction of Lewis and Clark's keelboat/barge, "Best Friend," which was constructed by Butch Bouvier of L&C Replicas. The keelboat display room offers visitors the ability to see all of the boats that were utilized on the Lewis and Clark Expedition. The replica boats on display are a keelboat, two pirogues, a dug-out canoe, The Iron Boat, and a bull boat. Also on display are many informative pieces from the expedition.
Picnicking/Shelters/Lodge
Lewis and Clark is a very popular area for family picnics. The park has more than 30 acres of picnic grounds with tables, fire grills and drinking water. One open picnic shelter is available for picnic use on a first-come/first-serve basis and may be rented through the park office.
The day-use lodge at Lewis and Clark is a fine place for group events such as wedding receptions and family reunions. The lodge was constructed in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps. The lodge may be reserved for a fee online.
Camping
The Lewis and Clark campground is a great place to spend a leisurely vacation in the outdoors. The campground features both electric and full hook-up sites (water and sewer) which lie along the lakeshore. Modern restrooms and showers are available, as is a trailer dump station.
Camp Observer