Established in 1937, Babler State Park is a 2,441 acre natural “oasis of solitude” located in Wildwood, MO in the rugged Missouri River hills - just minutes from downtown St. Louis.  Jacob L. Babler’s love of nature and his desire to commemorate his brother, Edmund, came together to create this unique gift to the residents of Missouri.  The park was dedicated in honor of Dr. Edmund A. Babler, a prominent St. Louis surgeon and philanthropist.


Camping, hiking, picnicking, and the many natural features of the Park ensure a variety of rewarding outdoor experiences.  An impressive visitors’ center interprets the wonders of the Park’s natural communities - such as the extensive old-growth forests, dolomite cliffs, and numerous stone buildings.  Overnight stays at designated campgrounds are also possible, with prior arrangements.  


Aside from the obvious opportunities for children to reconnect with nature by enjoying the above-outlined activities with their families, classrooms and an auditorium are available for special programs.  Nature films are shown regularly in the Owl’s Eye Theater.  Children and their parents can learn about the Park’s flora and fauna, as well as about the other unique features of the Park in the Exhibit Hall.

Throughout the summer, interpretive programs on the outdoors are offered in the campground and at the visitors’ center.  In addition, special events - such as Creatures of the Night, Night Sky Over Babler, Bug Day, and others - are offered throughout the year.  School groups, scouts, and other organizations can also schedule specific interpretive programs during the school year by contacting Park staff.


This extensive variety and timing of programs offers many wonderful ways for parents, teachers, scout leaders, and individual families to connect children with fun-filled, educational, free activities that will help them “bond” with nature.        

Children’s History + Nature Experiences at Babler State Park