Frontier Park
With panoramic views of the mighty Missouri River and a diverse roster of events, Frontier Park is a year-round destination perfect for the entire family. St. Charles is home to more than 4,767 acres of parks, including 16 stunning acres at Frontier Park, where you’ll often find local concerts, food trucks, and festivals.
Whether you’re visiting Frontier Park to picnic among its lush green surroundings or to stroll its manicured grounds, we’re here to help you plan your visit with a guide to hours, locations, events, and amenities.
Hours and Location
Frontier Park is adjacent to Main Street St. Charles, the heart of the historic city. It’s located at 500 S. Riverside Drive and is open from dawn until midnight for early birds and night owls alike. Free parking can be found on S. Riverside Drive or in the lots directly across from the park.
History
Frontier Park, as we know it today, sits on the location of the former campsite of the Lewis and Clark Expedition, which stopped in St. Charles for several days from May 15-20, 1804, and on the expedition’s return trip for one day on September 21, 1806. The area is steeped in history, and it’s easy to visualize stepping back in time as Meriwether Lewis and William Clark led the country’s westward expansion!
Events
Frontier Park events include local concerts, food truck events, and the annual Fourth of July celebration, Riverfest. It also hosts the Festival of the Little Hills, St. Charles Oktoberfest, where you can experience German music and food.
Frontier Park is an excellent location for birthday parties, weddings, and family outings. It features two picnic shelters, a rest area with benches, and restrooms that are open year-round. The outdoor Jaycee Stage, Katy Depot, and two picnic shelters are also available to rent for special occasions.
The park also boasts great fishing, hiking, and biking opportunities, and has a paved hike/bike trail. Snap a photo in front of the 15-foot-tall Lewis and Clark Statue as a keepsake of your Frontier Park memories and don’t forget to rub their dog, Seaman’s, nose for good luck!
Katy Trail
Frontier Park is a major trailhead for the Katy Trail, a recreational trail that spans nearly 240 miles across the state of Missouri and winds along the park. Katy Trail State Park is situated along the former Missouri-Kansas-Texas (MKT) Railroad and is the longest developed rail-trail in the country.
Much of the trail follows the Missouri River, offering scenic views of the mighty waters. Its breathtaking surroundings are ideal for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts (don’t forget your camera), as well as hikers and bikers. Along the Katy Trail, you’ll also find a variety of restaurants, wineries, and lodging.
Horseback riders are also welcome to ride the Katy Trail between the Clinton and the Sedalia Fairgrounds trailhead. For questions or more information, contact the Katy Trail State Park Office at 573-449-7402.