Long Branch State Park

For dining options near Long Branch State Park, Pear Tree Kitchen & Bar offers upscale dining with a cozy atmosphere, known for its great cocktails and wine list. Star 63 is a family-friendly breakfast spot with a casual vibe. Koch's General Store provides a cozy setting with great coffee and desserts. For Mexican cuisine, Los Jimadores offers a trendy atmosphere with fast service. Lastly, China Garden Restaurant serves Chinese dishes in a casual setting.

For accommodations near Long Branch State Park, Comfort Inn & Suites Macon offers a straightforward stay with free breakfast and an indoor pool. Super 8 by Wyndham Macon provides a budget-friendly option with free WiFi and breakfast. Another budget choice is Americas Best Value Inn & Suites Macon, offering basic amenities like free Wi-Fi.

Long Branch State Park offers a range of amenities to enhance visitor experiences. The park includes picnic areas, restrooms, and showers, making it convenient for day visitors and campers alike. The marina store provides essential supplies and rentals for water activities. Additionally, the park features a modern campground with well-equipped facilities for overnight stays.

The park also preserves natural areas like the Bee Trace and Chariton River Hills Natural Area, which are perfect for hiking and wildlife viewing. Visitors can enjoy the scenic beauty of the lake and surrounding prairies.

For those with mobility issues, the park now offers a beach wheelchair during normal beach hours, ensuring accessibility for all.

Long Branch State Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Popular activities include boating, fishing, and swimming. The park's three boat ramps provide easy access to Long Branch Lake, where visitors can enjoy water skiing or simply cruise around. For land lovers, there are hiking trails like the Bee Trace Trail and the Little Chariton Prairie Trail, offering stunning views of prairie wildflowers and diverse birdlife.

The park also features a swimming beach and day-use areas, making it ideal for family outings. Fishing is particularly popular due to the lake's reputation for excellent walleye fishing.

Visitors can also explore the historic Bee Trace area, which offers insights into the region's past.

Long Branch State Park offers several accessibility features to ensure that all visitors can enjoy its facilities. The park now provides a beach wheelchair for use during normal beach hours, allowing individuals with mobility issues to access the beach. Additionally, many of the park's facilities, including restrooms and picnic areas, are wheelchair accessible.

The park's trails and natural areas are designed to be accessible, though some may require more mobility than others. Overall, the park strives to provide an inclusive environment for all visitors.

Parking at Long Branch State Park is generally ample and convenient. The park offers designated parking areas near the beach, marina, and other facilities. These parking lots are free and easily accessible, allowing visitors to park close to their desired activities. The proximity of parking to the beach and other amenities ensures that visitors can quickly transition between different activities.

The park's layout is designed to accommodate a variety of vehicles, including RVs and trailers, making it suitable for campers and boaters alike.

Long Branch State Park has a fascinating history tied to the construction of Long Branch Dam, which was completed in 1980. The dam not only controlled flooding but also created a recreational paradise. The park's Bee Trace area is notable for its ancient oak trees, some of which are over 250 years old, and its role in preserving remnants of the tallgrass prairie.

The park is also significant for its archaeological sites, indicating seasonal occupation by American Indians in the past. Today, it serves as a vital habitat for migratory waterfowl and other wildlife.

The park's unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance makes it a compelling destination for both nature lovers and history enthusiasts.

Long Branch State Park is surrounded by attractions that enhance its natural beauty. The nearby Atlanta State Wildlife Area offers additional opportunities for wildlife viewing and outdoor exploration. The park itself is rich in historical significance, with evidence of American Indian occupation and the Bee Trace area, which once served as a major trade route.

Visitors can also explore the scenic drives around Macon County, which offer picturesque views of the Missouri countryside. The park's proximity to Macon allows for easy access to local shops and restaurants.

The Chariton River Hills Natural Area within the park is a must-visit for its diverse flora and fauna.