My Wild, Accidental Adventure at Lone Elk Park

Have you ever been driving down a random country road, only to get completely lost and stumble upon something amazing? That’s exactly what happened to me last summer near St. Louis, Missouri. I accidentally discovered Lone Elk Park—a free drive-thru wildlife park where elk, bison, deer, and even wild turkeys roam freely!

Watch the Companion Video Here or click play below 👇

Getting Lost & Finding Adventure

I was about 30 minutes outside of downtown St. Louis, completely off-route, when a sign caught my eye: "Do not feed the elk or buffalo." That’s when it hit me—I had driven straight into Lone Elk Park. At first, I had no clue what I was about to experience. But by the time I got home, I was buzzing with stories about the majestic elk and the mighty bison that call this park home.

For more on what to do in St. Louis, check out Explore St. Louis.

The Unexpected Drive-Thru Safari

Imagine this: a drive-thru wildlife experience where you get up close to free-roaming elk that can weigh up to 1,000 pounds, and bison that can sprint up to 35 miles per hour. It’s a perfect escape for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone who wants a peaceful outdoor drive that doubles as a mini safari.

What to Expect:

• Wildlife on the Move: Elk, bison, deer, turkeys, and more.

• Simple Rules: Stay in your vehicle, drive slowly, and don’t feed the animals.

• Safety First: Respect the wildlife and the park rules, or you might have a run-in with a very serious ranger!

A Trip Through History

Lone Elk Park isn’t just about amazing wildlife—it’s steeped in history.

• Military Past: Once a World War II and Korean War ammunition testing site known as Tyson Valley Powder Plant, the land has a storied past.

• Rebirth: After the wars, a small herd of elk and bison was introduced. Despite a near wipe-out during the Korean War, one lone bull elk survived, inspiring the park’s name. Later, in 1966, six additional elk arrived from Yellowstone National Park, and by 1971, the park officially opened.

For more historical insights, take a peek at this detailed history overview on military testing sites.

They parked the vehicles in the old Mincke Quarry.

Tips for Your Visit

If you’re planning a trip to Lone Elk Park, here are some tips based on my own adventure:

• Best Time to Visit: Early morning is ideal—the wildlife is most active when the sun rises.

• Driving Tips: Keep a slow pace (just above idle speed) and stay alert for animals crossing.

• Park Rules: Remember, no feeding the animals and always stay inside your vehicle.

• Other Activities: Consider having a picnic at the park’s designated spots or exploring nearby hiking trails.

Nearby Attractions

While Lone Elk Park is a fantastic destination on its own, there are some great spots nearby that you shouldn’t miss:

• World Bird Sanctuary: Home to bald eagles, owls, and rescued birds.

• Castlewood State Park: A short drive away, offering scenic hiking trails and breathtaking views of the Merrimack River.

Wrap-Up

Getting lost isn’t always a bad thing—it can lead to unforgettable adventures! My trip to Lone Elk Park turned out to be a remarkable drive-thru wildlife safari, steeped in history and full of natural beauty. Have you ever gotten lost and found something amazing? I’d love to hear your stories in the comments below.

Remember to check out the companion video above, give the post a thumbs up if you enjoyed it, and subscribe for more adventures. Until next time, keep exploring and having fun!

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