PARK INFORMATION
Inside the quiet shady sanctuary of Don Robinson State Park, it’s hard to believe that the bustling metropolitan area of St. Louis is not far away. Its wooded hillsides buffer any outside noise and its interesting sandstone canyons make it easy to forget there is a world outside.
That’s just what Don Robinson intended when he purchased the property as his personal home and sanctuary. The area is located in the upper watershed of the LaBarque Creek and features sandstone box canyons, shelter caves, cliffs, glades and upland and bottomland forests. It was Robinson’s wish that upon his death, his personal sanctuary would become part of the Missouri state park system. Today, Don Robinson State Park offers visitors a chance to experience and explore this amazing landscape that is not far from St. Louis but still a world away.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/don-robinson-state-park for more information.
Don Robinson State Park is located in Jefferson County, Missouri, and offers a variety of natural attractions for visitors. Named after Don Robinson, an eccentric businessman and environmentalist who donated the 843-acre property to the state, the park is known for its sandstone canyons, shelter caves, and diverse plant life. Hiking trails such as the Sandstone Canyon Trail and LaBarque Hills Trail provide opportunities to experience the park’s rugged landscape and scenic beauty.
Is it worth flying a drone there?Flying a drone at Don Robinson State Park could allow you to capture some stunning aerial footage of the unique sandstone formations and dense forests. However, the park’s natural features and rugged terrain might limit some accessible areas for drone takeoff and landing.
Am I legally allowed to fly a drone there?As of my knowledge cutoff date in 2021, the operation of drones in Missouri State Parks is generally restricted. This means that you might not be legally allowed to fly a drone within Don Robinson State Park without special permission. You should always check the most updated regulations with the Missouri Department of Natural Resources or the park's management before planning to fly a drone there.
Do I need LAANC authorization?The Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability (LAANC) system is designed to provide near-real-time processing of airspace authorizations below approved altitudes in controlled airspace. Most state parks, including Don Robinson State Park, are not typically located in controlled airspace that requires LAANC authorization. However, it's crucial to check current airspace maps using apps like AirMap or the FAA's B4UFLY before any drone operation to ensure compliance with all regulations.
Anything else I need to know?1. Respect Wildlife and Visitors: When flying a drone, it's important to avoid disturbing wildlife and other park visitors. Drones can be intrusive and noisy, which might negatively impact the outdoor experience for others.2. Follow All Other FAA Guidelines: Ensure that you follow all Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) guidelines for drone operation. This includes keeping your drone within visual line-of-sight, flying below 400 feet, and avoiding flights over groups of people or moving vehicles.3. Park Alerts and Information: Check for any additional alerts or specific regulations at the park by visiting the Don Robinson State Park website or contacting park management.4. Permits and Special Permissions: If drone use is permitted under special circumstances, you may need to obtain a permit or special authorization from park management. Be sure to inquire about this if you plan to pursue drone photography or videography.By thoroughly checking these aspects, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience at Don Robinson State Park.
Don Robinson State Park, 9275 Byrnesville Rd, Cedar Hill, MO 63016, USA
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