PARK INFORMATION
Descend into the depths of Onondaga Cave State Park and drop into a world of wonder: towering stalagmites, dripping stalactites, and active flowstones help make the cave a National Natural Landmark and illustrate why Missouri is often called “The Cave State.” Visitors can take guided tours into the underground wonderland. But if you prefer the surface, the park’s Vilander Bluff Natural Area provides a panoramic view of the Meramec River. Easy access to the Meramec River allows visitors to canoe or fish in a peaceful and scenic setting.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/onondaga-cave-state-park for more information.
Onondaga Cave State Park, located near Leasburg, Missouri, is renowned for its stunning cave formations, beautiful forest trails, and the Meramec River. The park's centerpiece is Onondaga Cave, a National Natural Landmark, which features impressive stalactites, stalagmites, active flowstones, and other geological wonders. The park also includes diverse hiking trails, picnic areas, campsites, opportunities for fishing, and interpretative programs that highlight the natural and cultural history of the area.
Drone Use in Onondaga Cave State Park
# Drone Regulations:1. State Park Rules: Missouri State Parks, including Onondaga Cave State Park, generally do not allow the flight of drones or other unmanned aircraft without explicit permission. This restriction is in place to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all park visitors, as well as to protect wildlife and natural resources.2. FAA Regulations: If permission from the park were to be granted, Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations must still be adhered to. This typically includes adhering to standard rules such as not flying above 400 feet, keeping the drone within line of sight, avoiding flying over people, and respecting no-fly zones.3. LANCE Authorization: Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability (LANCE) is required for flights within controlled airspace under 400 feet, which often pertains to airports and other secured zones. However, Onondaga Cave State Park is situated in an area that is likely to be outside controlled airspace, making LANCE authorization potentially unnecessary. It’s essential, however, to check the FAA’s B4UFLY app or similar tools to confirm the airspace status.
# Additional Considerations:- Natural Preservation: Flying a drone could potentially disrupt wildlife and damage natural features, which is why restricted access is often in place. Respect for the natural environment is paramount.- Safety and Privacy: Ensuring the safety and privacy of other park visitors is crucial. Unauthorized drone use can pose hazards or disturb the peace of visitors seeking a natural retreat.
Summary:While Onondaga Cave State Park boasts picturesque scenery that might seem ideal for drone photography, the restrictions on drone flights in Missouri State Parks generally imply that flying a drone there is not permitted without special authorization from park authorities. If you are set on flying a drone in a state park, reaching out to park management for guidance and permissions is necessary.Always double-check current policies as regulations and permissions can evolve. Ensure compliance with all local, state, and federal drone regulations to respect the environment and other visitors' experiences.
Alternatives:If securing permission for drone use in Onondaga Cave State Park proves difficult, consider exploring other nearby areas or designated drone flight zones that might offer the aerial perspectives you seek without the legal and environmental concerns associated with protected state parks.
Onondaga Cave State Park, 7556 Missouri H, Leasburg, MO 65535, USA
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