Our Opinion: Keep the momentum going, Missourians

State parks have had soaring popularity recently.

The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reported an estimated 22.5 million people visited state parks in 2021, an all-time high. It was a nearly 7 percent increase from 2020.

Division of State Parks Director David Kelly said COVID-19 has fueled parks' popularity.

Missouri has 92 parks and historic sites. Around here, that includes the Katy Trail, Jefferson Landing/Missouri State Museum and Rock Bridge Memorial State Park, south of Columbia.

Overall, state parks have had a 24 percent increase in campsite rentals and a 17 percent jump in lodging units rented.

It's bringing more people outside, enjoying the fresh air, beautiful vistas and getting their bodies moving more. It's one of the few positives from the global pandemic.

In the article, Kelly said the biggest complaint the division gets is the parks are so popular people can't always get into them.

The popularity is driving the state to plan new parks, build new cabins and take other steps such as increasing internet connectivity and upgrading existing campsites. Much of that work will be funded with money from the American Rescue Plan Act.

The state budget signed last year by Gov. Mike Parson authorized the sale of bonds for the first time since the 1980s, allowing officials to begin construction of more cabins and campground space.

We hope state parks' increased popularity continues well past the pandemic.

Our state parks are convenient, with locations throughout the state. They're also affordable, with no entrance fees and reasonable camping rates. You can discover natural wonders and beautiful views. You'll also have lots of built-in teachable moments for your children including nature, science, conservation and history.

If you're planning a day trip or a full-fledged vacation, we encourage you to consider including our state's alluring state parks.

News Tribune