PARK INFORMATION
The forested ridges and cool hollows of St. Francois State Park offer visitors a retreat from everyday life. Three hiking trails, including one that allows equestrian access, wind through the wooded hills and glades of the Coonville Creek Wild Area. Easy access to the Big River makes St. Francois State Park ideal for canoeing and floating, and the many shaded picnic sites and two covered shelters make the park perfect for family gatherings. Overnight guests can choose from more than 100 campsites, located in campgrounds with modern restrooms and hot showers.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/st-francois-state-park for more information.
St. Francois State Park is a pristine natural area located in the eastern part of Missouri, near the town of Bonne Terre. The park covers over 2,700 acres and features a variety of landscapes including forests, river valleys, and striking rocky outcrops. Notable attractions within the park include the scenic Coonville Creek, the Big River, and several hiking trails such as the Mooner's Hollow Trail and the Pike Run Trail. Visitors can enjoy activities like camping, picnicking, hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching.
Is it Worth Flying a Drone There?St. Francois State Park offers visually stunning landscapes that would be quite captivating from a bird's-eye view. The diverse terrains, lush forests, river scenes, and open spaces make it ideal for aerial photography and videography. However, there are several considerations to take into account before flying a drone in any state park, including policies and regulations.
Legal Aspects of Flying a Drone1. State Park Regulations: - Generally, in Missouri, flying drones in state parks is prohibited unless you have obtained special permissions. This is to ensure the safety of wildlife and the serenity of the park experience for all visitors.2. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Guidelines: - To fly a drone for either recreational or commercial purposes, the drone operator must comply with FAA regulations. - If the park is within controlled airspace, you would need LAANC (Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability) authorization.
Specific to St. Francois State Park1. Drone Use Prohibition: - As of the latest guidelines, drone use in state parks, including St. Francois State Park, is generally not permitted without a special permit. It’s advisable to contact the park administration directly for the most current rules and any possible exceptions.2. Permits and Special Permissions: - If you're determined to fly a drone, inquire about obtaining a permit. This usually involves specifying the purpose of the drone flight and may require negotiating terms of use with park managers.3. Proximity to Controlled Airspace: - Verify the airspace classification of the park's vicinity using FAA tools like the B4UFLY app. While St. Francois State Park itself may not be in a controlled area, nearby zones could have restrictions.
Other Considerations- Respect Wildlife and Visitors: Drones can disturb both wildlife and the enjoyment of other visitors. Always consider the well-being of the park’s environment and the experience of its guests.- Weather Conditions: Missouri's weather can be unpredictable. Ensure weather conditions are safe for flying a drone.- Equipment Readiness: Make sure your drone is in good condition, fully charged, and you are familiar with its operation.
ConclusionSt. Francois State Park is a beautiful natural area that would be visually impressive from the air. However, current regulations generally prohibit drone flights without special authorization. It's crucial to adhere to park rules and FAA regulations to avoid penalties and ensure a positive experience for all park visitors and wildlife. Always check with the park directly for the most updated information and any potential for obtaining necessary permits.
Saint Francois State Park, 8920 US Highway 67 North, Bonne Terre, MO 63628, USA
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