Sappington Bridge - Bourbon, Missouri

Introduction

Nestled in the heart of Missouri, the Sappington Bridge is an iconic landmark and a beloved spot for outdoor enthusiasts. Located at 2950-3198 Sappington Bridge Rd, Bourbon, MO 65441, United States, this bridge offers a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and recreational opportunities. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the Sappington Bridge, highlighting its main services, location, features, and practical information, along with insights from customer reviews.

Main Services

• Water Access: The Sappington Bridge provides direct access to the Meramec River, making it a popular spot for swimming, kayaking, canoeing, and fishing.
• Picnic Areas: The bridge offers several picnic tables and grills, perfect for a family day out or a quick lunch with friends.
• Trails: The area around the bridge features several hiking trails, offering a chance to explore the beautiful Missouri countryside.
• Historical Significance: The Sappington Bridge itself is a historic structure, built in 1924. It's a great opportunity to appreciate some local history.

Location and Access

The Sappington Bridge is situated in the small town of Bourbon, Missouri, about an hour's drive from St. Louis. It's easily accessible via Sappington Bridge Road, which connects to Highway 100. The bridge's location makes it a convenient starting or ending point for river floats, as it's near several river access points.

From the bridge, you can reach several nearby attractions, such as the Meramec Caverns, Elephant Rocks State Park, and Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park. These locations offer a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, rock climbing, and exploring caves.

Featured Characteristics

• Scenic Beauty: The Sappington Bridge offers stunning views of the Meramec River and the surrounding bluffs, making it a popular spot for photographers and nature lovers.
• Wildlife: The area around the bridge is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including birds, deer, and various fish species in the river.
• Facilities: The bridge has restrooms and a few picnic tables, providing basic amenities for visitors.
• Parking: There is a large parking lot near the bridge, but it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. It's a good idea to arrive early to secure a spot.

Practical Information

• Best Time to Visit: The bridge is open year-round, but the best time to visit is typically during the warmer months, from April to October, when the river is safe for swimming and floating.
• What to Bring: Visitors should bring appropriate clothing for the weather, sun protection, water, snacks, and any equipment they need for their chosen activity, such as kayaks, canoes, or fishing gear.
• Rules and Regulations: Visitors are encouraged to follow the rules and regulations posted at the bridge, including staying on marked trails and respecting wildlife and other visitors.

Positive Aspects from Reviews

Customer reviews of the Sappington Bridge frequently mention the following positive aspects:

• Water Access: Many reviewers appreciate the easy access to the Meramec River for swimming, kayaking, and canoeing.
• Scenic Beauty: Several reviewers comment on the beautiful views of the river and bluffs, making it a great spot for a peaceful day out.
• Historical Significance: Some reviewers mention the bridge's historical significance and appreciate the opportunity to see a piece of local history.
• Family-Friendly: Many reviewers mention that the Sappington Bridge is a great spot for families, offering a variety of activities for both kids and adults.

With an average rating of 4.2/5 from 50 reviews on Google My Business, the Sappington Bridge is widely regarded as a must-visit spot in Missouri. Its combination of historical significance, natural beauty, and recreational opportunities makes it a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike. Whether you're looking for a peaceful day by the river or an adventurous float trip, the Sappington Bridge has something to offer everyone.

👍 Reviews of Sappington Bridge

chrissy W.

5/5

Good place to get in or out of the meramac river for a float trip. There is parking here.

Adelita M.

5/5

First time take out on a kayak trip!

A

1/5

Full of ignorant and prevented people everytime I go with just my kids. I don't know if it's people that live in Sullivan but the visits I make in this area have become more and more disrespectful.

Bryan G.

4/5

Nice area to put in a canoe Etc.
Only downside was the parking lot was really full last time we went on a Weekend

cj S.

5/5

Great place to swim or just hang out a little bit of a walk down a trail but well worth it

Rachel M.

5/5

Great place to drop in and start your float, and end at the Meramec state park.

Jeff B.

5/5

Great place to launch your kayak from and float the Marimack.

Misty E.

4/5

Great to put in for a nice joyful float. River runs just right and there's a cave along the way.