GRAND GULF STATE PARK
Often referred to as Missouri's "Little Grand Canyon," Grand Gulf State Park offers visitors a chance to view a variety of natural wonders. From a canyon to a cave to a natural bridge -- this state park has plenty to see and much to do. The 322-acre park presents the most spectacular collapsed cave system in the Ozarks. Part of the cave's roof forms one of the largest natural bridges in the state, spanning 200 feet with an opening 75 feet high and 50 feet wide.
The "Grand Gulf" stretches for nearly a mile with walls almost 130 feet high, making the chasm deeper than it is wide. Trails, boardwalks and overlooks have been installed so that visitors can get a view from the edge of the cliffs and descend partway into the chasm without endangering themselves or the environment. Outdoor exhibits tell the story of the Grand Gulf and help onlookers understand how it was formed. Visitors can also enjoy several hiking trails from which to explore the canyon from above.
Picnic tables are scattered among the trees to enhance your enjoyment as you explore this designated National Natural Landmark.
Grand Gulf State Park is located near West Plains
There are three picnic sites along the tree-shaded rim of the gulf available for day use. The park has no running water and only a vault toilet. There is no camping allowed on park property.
Grand Gulf State Park features four platform overlooks connected by a one-fourth mile boardwalk for scenic viewing of the gulf. Also, a 118-step descent to the bottom of the gulf can be accessed from the parking lot.
Guided group tours of Grand Gulf may be arranged in advance with the tourist assistant. The tours feature park history and interpretive talks, and cater to the visitor?s inquiries. Call the park office for information at (417) 264-7600.
From West Plains : Grand Gulf State Park is 25 miles from West Plains. Travel south on U.S. Hwy. 63 to Thayer. Turn right onto Hwy. 19 and then right onto Route W, which leads into the state park.
From Arkansas : Grand Gulf State Park is 12 miles from Arkansas. Travel north on U.S. Hwy. 63 almost to Thayer. Turn left onto Hwy. 19 and then left onto Route W, which leads into the state park.
From Springfield : Grand Gulf State Park is 135 miles from Springfield. Travel south on U.S. Hwy. 60 to Cabool. Take U.S. Hwy. 63 south to Thayer. Turn right onto Hwy. 19 and then right onto Route W, which leads into the state park.
From Sikeston : Grand Gulf State Park is 118 miles from Sikeston. Travel west on U.S. Hwy. 60 to Poplar Bluff. Take U.S. Hwy. 67/160 west to U.S. Hwy. 160. Continue to Doniphan then travel west on Hwy. 142 to Thayer. Turn north on U.S. Hwy. 63 and continue to the caution light at Hwy. 19. Turn left onto Hwy. 19 and then left onto Route W, which leads into the state park.
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