Route 66 State Park Shelters

About

Route 66 State Park encompasses 424 acres along the Meramec River at the site of the former town of Times Beach, offering reservable picnic shelters for day-use recreation. The park's shelters provide covered gathering spaces with accessible picnic tables, restrooms, and drinking fountains nearby. The visitor center, housed in the former Bridgehead Inn roadhouse built in 1935, showcases Route 66 history and memorabilia from America's Main Street. Located just one mile east of Eureka, the park provides quick access to nature for St. Louis metro area visitors. More than 175 species of birds have been identified in the park. Multi-use trails wind through mixed woods and open fields, including the paved Inner Loop Trail that is accessible to all visitors. The park offers boat launch access to the Meramec River for fishing and paddling. The park's location on historic Route 66 provides a unique setting for family gatherings and group events, with picnic sites and shelters situated among the natural landscape. A playground and various trail options make this an ideal destination for families looking to combine outdoor recreation with a slice of American highway history.

Directions

Route 66 State Park is located approximately 1 mile east of Eureka, Missouri. From eastbound Interstate 44, take exit 265 to access the park. The visitor center is accessible from either direction at exit 266.