Jefferson: Archaeology, History and Nature

The Mastodon State Historic Site preserves the Kimmswick Bone Bed, an archaeological and paleontological site. The Bone Bed is one of Missouri’s oldest known archaeological sites and dates back more than 10,000 years. Exhibits in the museum showcase the site’s archaeology and paleontology; a short film tells its story.

Three hiking trails are part of the Mastodon State Historic Site. One leads to the site where the bones and artifacts were found. Also located at the site is the Callison Memorial Bird Sanctuary: Native wildflowers and shrubs, along with feeding stations, offer opportunities to observe birds, butterflies and other native wildlife.

Bridges and Historic Homes

The Sandy Creek Covered Bridge was built in 1872 using the Howe truss system. An outdoor exhibit provides information about the bridge’s history. The Windsor Harbor Road Bridge dates from 1874, is listed on the National Register, and is considered Missouri’s oldest known wrought-iron truss bridge.

The Kimmswick Historical Society offers tours of the restored Burgess Howe House, a log cabin dating from the 1840s. For another perspective on history, visit the Anheuser Estate & Museum in Kimmswick, 25 miles south of downtown St. Louis. The collection includes family heirlooms, antiques, portraits and a family library. The grounds offer views of the Mississippi River and its native wildlife.

Near Herculaneum, the burial site of Gov. Daniel Dunklin, Missouri’s fifth governor, sits on a hill overlooking a river. The site connects a specific chapter of state history with its riverside setting.

Trails and Natural Areas

Sandstone canyons, rock overhangs, bluffs and glades define Don Robinson State Park, along with upland and bottomland forests. The Labarque Hills Trail and Sandstone Canyon Trail are designated hiking trails in the park. The 3.9-mile Sandstone Canyon Trail is a moderately difficult loop for hiking and accessible use.

LaBarque Creek Natural Area has waterfalls in wet weather and is home to more than 40 breeding bird species. A three-mile loop trail adds a clearly specified route length to the nature-watching opportunities. The Sandstone Canyon Trail is also a loop, at 3.9 miles; the two figures make it possible to compare the stated lengths.

The 429-acre Myron and Sonya Glassberg Family Conservation Area is in north-central Jefferson County and helps preserve and improve the ecological and recreational values of the LaBarque Creek watershed. Its 1.5-mile trail system follows old roads. There is also an additional 0.5-mile hiking trail around the fishing lake. Pleasant Valley Nature Preserve encompasses 40 acres of undeveloped natural area with old trees, wildflowers, wildlife and hiking trails.

Along the Big River and in the Parks

At Brown's Ford Park, a concrete ramp leads to the Big River, where fishing and canoeing are possible. Cedar Hill Park also provides access to the Big River for fishing, canoeing and river trips. The remains of the old Cedar Hill Mill Dam are another attraction there. Together, the two parks offer different river activities at distinct local access points.

The six-acre Sunridge Park is centered around an old fire lookout tower; its amenities include hiking trails. The Jefferson County Wineries & Breweries Trail offers another way to experience the region, connecting views of local vineyards with wine tastings. Several local breweries serve lagers and ales brewed on site.

Discover more destinations: Arnold, Imperial, Pevely, Festus, De Soto, Johnson County, Daviess, Iron County.

For the overview of the wider region: Missouri.