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Jacob L. Loose Park

If you're bringing kids, hit the playground first. It's a great way for them to burn off some energy before exploring the trails.

Don’t miss out on the Rose Garden! It's a hidden gem and blooms beautifully in Spring. Perfect spot for pics for your Insta!

I suggest bringing your own water bottle. The park can get hot, and you want to stay hydrated without forking over a fortune for drinks.
Ha Ha Tonka State Park

I think you should explore the ruins of the mansion first. They’re really neat, but we did that last and kinda rushed through it. Get there early to enjoy it!

I suggest bringing plenty of water and maybe some bug spray. I ended up getting eaten alive on the Canopy Walk trail - it was worth it, but I wish I was prepared!
Berkeley Riverfront

My advice is to bring a picnic, it's a great way to relax and enjoy the views. There are plenty of nice spots and it saves you some cash on food!

I recommend visiting on a weekday if you can. The weekends can get pretty busy, and I had to deal with crowded walking paths which was annoying.

I think you should bring a good camera or your smartphone for photos. The riverfront views are beautiful, and you'll want to capture the sunset—just make sure to arrive around 6 PM!
Penguin Park

I suggest visiting early in the morning, around 9 AM, to avoid the larger crowds and enjoy a peaceful stroll. The park looks magical when it's quiet!

Bring your own snacks! There's a playground and some great spots to chill so save a few bucks by packing a lunch instead of buying food on-site.
St Joe State Park

My advice is to bring your own food and drinks. The concession prices are a bit steep, and there's no reason to break the bank when picnic areas are available.

I recommend exploring the trails on a weekday if you can. The weekends can be super busy, and they limit some trails during peak times, which can be frustrating.
Park Swap

My advice is to bring your own snacks and drinks if you can. The park's vendor prices were way higher than I expected, and having a picnic on the grass was such a nice experience!