Best attractions and places to see around Park Hills, Missouri, highlight the region's rich mining history and natural landscapes. Situated in the Old Lead Belt and near the Ozark Mountains, the area features hilly terrain and numerous parks. Visitors can explore historical sites, state parks, and local recreational areas.
Last updated: June 25, 2026
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Weekends on nice days draws many folk that are walking on this part of the trail. Slowly is the best way to enjoy the Ohio River vistas this trail section provides.
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The Cincinnati Trailhead for the Ohio to Erie Trail is located at Smale Riverfront Park near downtown Cincinnati. It serves as the southern terminus of the 326-mile trail that traverses Ohio, connecting Cincinnati to Cleveland. This trailhead provides a nice starting point with amenities such as parking, restrooms, water fountains, and access to the scenic park on the Ohio River.
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Some people will use this as a starting / ending point
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The Ohio River Trail is a 22-mile trail from Smale Park in Cincinnati to New Richmond, Ohio. This section of the trail runs alongside downtown Cincinnati. It passes through several riverside parks and has many opportunities for a relaxed picnic spot next to the water.
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Scattered across the city of Cincinnati, you will find artfully decorated pig statues. These statues were first created in 2000 by local artists and schools in order to celebrate the history of the city as the pork capital of the US. At one time there had been over 400 different statues on display, but today only a handful still exist outside private collections. One of the best examples can be found near Sawyer Point and is named "Lucius Quinctus Pigasus".
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Scattered across the city of Cincinnati you will find artfully decorated pig statues. These statues were first created in 2000 by local artists and schools in order to celebrate the history of the city as the pork capital of the US. At one time there had been over 400 different statues on display, but today only a handful still exist outside of private collections. One of the best examples can be found near Sawyer Point and is named "Lucius Quinctus Pigasus".
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Great family-friendly park near the Ohio River. There are plenty of places to have a picnic, or enjoy the views of the famous Cincinnati suspension bridge.
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Wavy wall right along the northern banks of the Ohio River. This area is a popular spot to hang out near the river and have picnics. Great views of the various bridges that cross over into Kentucky.
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Park Hills is rich in mining history. You can visit the Missouri Mines State Historic Site, which features a museum with restored underground mining equipment, mineral specimens, and geology exhibits. The Eugene Field School is also a recognized historical landmark, added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2005.
Yes, Park Hills is surrounded by several state parks. St. Joe State Park is Missouri's third-largest, offering an extensive off-road vehicle area, camping, swimming beaches, boat ramps, and hiking trails. Nearby, St. Francois State Park provides opportunities for hiking and rock climbing in its stunning valleys and canyons, and swimming in the St. Francis River. Other state parks like Hawn, Elephant Rocks, Johnson's Shut-Ins, Taum Sauk Mountain, and Washington State Park are also within driving distance.
For family fun, Columbia Park is the largest local park, featuring a public swimming pool, picnic facilities, a lighted walking trail, and an outdoor amphitheater for concerts and movies. It also has an 18-hole disc golf course. St. Joe State Park offers swimming beaches and camping, which are great for families.
You'll find various hiking opportunities. St. Joe State Park has trails for wildlife viewing, and St. Francois State Park offers trails through valleys and canyons. For easy hikes, consider routes like the Black Squirrel and Bluebird Trails Loop or the Benny Vastine Nature Trail. You can find more details on these and other easy hikes around Park Hills on our guide page: Easy hikes around Park Hills.
Yes, the area offers several cycling routes. You can explore options like the Ohio to Erie Trail or the Ramblin' River Bike Tour. For more detailed information on cycling routes, including road cycling, around Park Hills, visit our dedicated guides: Cycling around Park Hills and Road Cycling Routes around Park Hills.
Beyond the state parks, Park Hills boasts Columbia Park with its disc golf course, swimming pool, and walking trail. The Park Hills Sports Complex is active throughout spring and summer, hosting local softball, baseball, tennis, basketball, and handball games and leagues. The St. Francois County Fairgrounds also hosts various events, including sprint car races and rodeos.
Yes, the region around Park Hills is part of Missouri's southeast wine region. You can find St. Francois Winery in Park Hills itself, with other wineries located in nearby Ste. Genevieve and Farmington. The area also features numerous golf courses, including 9-hole, par-3, and 18-hole options.
Park Hills is situated within the historic Old Lead Belt, which was formerly a major lead mining district. This heritage is prominently displayed at the Missouri Mines State Historic Site, offering insights into the region's industrial past and its impact on the community.
Yes, there are several options for swimming. St. Joe State Park features swimming beaches, and the St. Francis River within St. Francois State Park is suitable for swimming. Additionally, Columbia Park, the largest local park in Park Hills, has a public swimming pool.
Park Hills is located in the foothills of the Ozark Mountains, providing a scenic backdrop. The best way to experience this natural beauty is by exploring the numerous state parks in the vicinity, such as St. Joe State Park and St. Francois State Park, which offer hiking trails and opportunities to view wildlife amidst the hilly terrain and natural landscapes.
The St. Francois County Fairgrounds is a vibrant venue that hosts a variety of events. These include the annual St. Francois County Fair, exciting sprint car races, and traditional rodeos, offering entertainment for the local community and visitors.


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