Discover Jefferson: Nature, History, and River Landscapes

Jefferson combines impressive nature experiences with archaeological sites, historic bridges, and excursions along the water. Those looking for a vacation rental in Jefferson can therefore shape their stay around a wide range of interests: from hiking trails through ravines and forests to insights into Missouri’s history and days spent along the Big River or Mississippi River.

Experience Archaeology and History Firsthand

A special starting point for exploring cultural history is the Mastodon State Historic Site. There, the Kimmswick Bone Bed is preserved as an archaeological and paleontological site. The museum features exhibits on the archaeology and paleontology of the site, complemented by a short film about its history. The Kimmswick Bone Bed is one of Missouri’s oldest known archaeological sites and dates back more than 10,000 years. Three hiking trails lead through the grounds, including one trail to the site where the bones and artifacts were found.

Historic structures also give Jefferson a distinctive character. The Sandy Creek Covered Bridge was built in 1872 using the Howe truss system. An outdoor exhibit provides information about its history; the bridge is open exclusively to pedestrian traffic. The Windsor Harbor Road Bridge was built in 1874, is listed on the National Register, and is considered the oldest known wrought-iron bridge truss in Missouri. At the Anheuser Estate & Museum, you can see family heirlooms, antiques, portraits, and a family library. The grounds also offer views of the Mississippi River and its native wildlife. The museum is located in Kimmswick, 25 miles south of downtown St. Louis.

Hiking Trails, Conservation Areas, and Distinctive Landscapes

Several different landscapes are available for active days. Don Robinson State Park features sandstone ravines, rock overhangs, cliffs, clearings, and upland and bottomland forests. The Labarque Hills Trail and the Sandstone Canyon Trail are designated hiking trails there. The Sandstone Canyon Trail is a 3.9-mile moderate loop trail for hiking and low-barrier access. This allows you to choose between a more demanding natural setting and a clearly described loop trail when planning your day.

Waterfalls can be found in the LaBarque Creek Natural Area during wet weather. More than 40 breeding bird species live there, and a three-mile loop trail is also available. The Myron and Sonya Glassberg Family Conservation Area encompasses 429 acres in central northern Jefferson County and contributes to preserving and enhancing the ecological and recreational values of the LaBarque Creek watershed. The area includes a 1.5-mile trail system made up of old roads and an additional 0.5-mile hiking trail around the fishing lake.

The Callison Memorial Bird Sanctuary offers further nature experiences, with native wildflowers, shrubs, and feeding stations for observing birds, butterflies, and other native wildlife, as does the Pleasant Valley Nature Preserve. There, you can explore 40 acres of undeveloped natural area with old trees, wildflowers, wildlife, and hiking trails. Facilities at Sunridge Park include hiking trails, among other amenities; the focal point of the six-acre park is an old fire lookout tower.

Rivers, Regional Trails, and the Right Accommodation

If water is part of your travel plans, Brown's Ford Park and Cedar Hill Park offer different opportunities along the Big River. At Brown's Ford Park, a concrete ramp provides access to the river for fishing and canoeing. Cedar Hill Park provides access to the Big River for fishing, canoeing, and river trips. The remains of the old Cedar Hill Mill Dam are another destination for visitors there.

Culinary discoveries can also be included: the Jefferson County Wineries & Breweries Trail combines views of local vineyards with wine tastings. Several local breweries offer lagers and ales brewed on-site. When looking for a vacation rental in Jefferson, it is therefore worthwhile to first determine your preferred focus: historic sites and museums, hiking trails and nature observation, river experiences, or visits to wineries and breweries. This allows you to choose accommodation suited to your personal daily rhythm without limiting the trip to just one type of experience.

For regional orientation, you can also visit Arnold, Imperial, Festus, De Soto and Pevely. You can find additional destination pages under Taney, Pulaski and Pike.

For the overarching travel overview: Missouri.