Top 4 Lakes around Bellerive
Best lakes around Bellerive are found within a large urban park setting, offering a blend of natural landscapes and cultural institutions. This area features extensive green spaces, forests, and multiple lakes and streams. It provides opportunities for outdoor recreation alongside access to museums and other attractions.
Best lakes around Bellerive
- The most popular lakes is Forest Park, a forest that spans 1,326 acres and is considered one of the premier urban public parks. It features beautiful landscapes with forests,…
Last updated: June 29, 2026
Forest Park
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Post-Dispatch Lake, Forest Park
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Jefferson Lake
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Emerson Grand Basin
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Tips from the Community
Forest Park is a huge recreational park in the heart of St. Louis. The park is perfect for relaxing, biking, golfing, and exploring the various cultural offerings at the Museum of History, St. Louis Zoo, Art Museum, or Planetarium. It's also easily accessible by metro.
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The bike lanes here are wonderful. The connectors could be improved though!
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Forest Park in St. Louis is a sprawling urban park spanning 1,371 acres, making it one of the largest urban parks in the United States. It offers a wide range of attractions, including the Saint Louis Art Museum, the Saint Louis Zoo, and the Missouri History Museum.
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The Emerson Grand Basin in St. Louis is a stunning water feature located in Forest Park. Spanning over 7 acres, it serves as both a picturesque gathering place and a recreational area for visitors to enjoy.
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Forest Park, with 1,326 acres, is considered one of the premier urban public parks in the US. It features beautiful landscapes sprinkled with forests, ecosystems, nature reserves, and lakes and streams. It als contains cultural institutions including the St Louis Zoo, Art Museum, Missouri History Museum, Science Center, and Muny Opera.
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Emerson Gran Basin is a manmade lake in front of the Saint Louis Art Museum. The architecture of the museum, the square, and the lake with water fountains make it a beautiful romantic scenery. Forest Park has a nice trail network and is a great place for a run.
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Jefferson Lake is situated in the very east of the huge Forest Park in St. Louis. There are multiple picnic areas around the lake to enjoy a great natural setting in the city. The lake is a famous spot for fishing and the paths leading around the lake (and the rest of the park), are perfect for jogging.
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In addition to sports, the huge park also offers cultural highlights such as museums, the St. Louis Zoo and bars and cafes. There is the possibility to sit and enjoy the weather and the silence, or you can try pedal boats, canoes or stand-up paddling. The north end is home to the Missouri National Museum and the south-west end is home to the Missouri Art Museum. In summer there are various festivals such as the St. Louis Blues Festival or the African Art festival. An oasis in the heart of industrial St. Louis.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there family-friendly activities around the lakes in Bellerive?
Yes, Forest Park, which hosts several lakes like Post-Dispatch Lake, Jefferson Lake, and Emerson Grand Basin, is highly family-friendly. You can enjoy pedal boats, canoes, or stand-up paddling. The park also features cultural institutions like the St. Louis Zoo and Missouri History Museum, making it a great destination for all ages.
What kind of walking or hiking trails can I find near the lakes?
Forest Park offers an extensive network of trails perfect for walking and jogging. You can find easy loops like the Emerson Grand Basin Loop or the Emerson Grand Basin & Jefferson Lake loop. Many paths lead around the lakes, providing scenic routes for all skill levels. For more options, explore the Hiking around Bellerive guide.
Are there easy walks around the lakes suitable for all abilities?
Absolutely. Forest Park features numerous easy trails, including the Emerson Grand Basin Loop and the Kennedy Forest Loop. These paths are generally flat and well-maintained, making them accessible for a leisurely stroll. The Easy hikes around Bellerive guide provides more details.
Where can I find parking when visiting the lakes?
Parking is available at various points within Forest Park, especially near popular attractions. Post-Dispatch Lake, for instance, is noted for having parking facilities nearby, making it convenient for visitors.
What outdoor activities can I do near these lakes besides hiking?
Beyond hiking, Forest Park offers excellent opportunities for cycling, with wonderful bike lanes throughout. You can explore various routes, including the Forest Park – Grand Drive loop. The lakes also allow for activities like pedal boating, canoeing, and stand-up paddling. Golfing is another popular option within the park.
Can I fish in any of the lakes?
Yes, Jefferson Lake in Forest Park is a popular spot for fishing. It is stocked with bass, catfish, crappie, and carp. Remember that a valid MO fishing license is required.
Are there cultural attractions near the lakes?
Forest Park is home to several significant cultural institutions. You can visit the St. Louis Zoo, the Saint Louis Art Museum, the Missouri History Museum, and the Science Center. The Emerson Grand Basin itself is a beautiful man-made feature in front of the Art Museum, offering a romantic setting.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes in Bellerive?
Forest Park and its lakes are enjoyable year-round. Summer brings festivals and water activities, while the cooler months are ideal for walking and exploring the cultural sites. The park's diverse landscapes, including forests and ecosystems, offer beauty in every season.
Are there cafes or places to eat near the lakes?
Yes, Forest Park is well-equipped with facilities. In addition to cultural highlights, the park offers bars and cafes where you can relax and enjoy the surroundings. There are also multiple picnic areas around lakes like Jefferson Lake.
What makes Forest Park a unique place to visit?
Forest Park is considered one of the premier urban public parks in the US, spanning over 1,300 acres. Its uniqueness lies in its blend of natural beauty—forests, ecosystems, nature reserves, and lakes—with world-class cultural institutions like the St. Louis Zoo and Art Museum. It offers a vast array of recreational and educational opportunities within a single urban oasis.
Can I cycle around the lakes?
Yes, cycling is a popular activity in Forest Park. The park features excellent bike lanes and connectors, making it a great place for a ride. You can find various routes, including the Forest Park – Grand Drive loop, which takes you through different parts of the park, often near the lakes.
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