O'Fallon Park

Historic Origins

O'Fallon Park stretches across 126.63 acres of St. Louis, Missouri. Dating back to 1908, the park land was once part of a much larger 600-acre property owned by Colonel John O'Fallon, who had some pretty impressive family connections as the nephew of William Clark (yes, that William Clark from the Lewis and Clark Expedition).

Natural Landscape

With its rolling hills and mature trees, O'Fallon Park creates a green oasis that's visible from Interstate 70. At the heart of the park sits a 5-acre lake complete with a charming planted island at its center.

The lake gets regularly stocked through the St. Louis Urban Fishing Program for those who enjoy fishing. During winter months, the Missouri Department of Conservation releases rainbow trout, making it a fantastic spot for cold-weather fishing enthusiasts. Beyond fish, the lake attracts a variety of waterfowl - ducks, geese, and cranes can often be spotted around the water.

Near the lake stands a historic boathouse built in 1913, with Art Deco-inspired architecture that adds historic character to the landscape.

Recreational Facilities

Need to stretch your legs? O'Fallon Park offers extensive walking paths with convenient exercise stations along the way. Since 2014, kids have been enjoying the handicap-accessible playground with modern equipment that welcomes children of all abilities.

The park beautifully balances both passive recreation like picnicking and more active pursuits. Tennis courts await if you're feeling competitive, and the thoughtful layout provides plenty of space whether you're looking to break a sweat or simply relax under a tree.

YMCA Recreation Center

The O'Fallon Park YMCA offers fitness facilities to the neighborhood with equipment and various programs. The center has clean facilities and a staff that serves local residents.

The YMCA's swimming pool is home base for the Makos, a respected swim team serving local youth. The center has become a vital community resource, offering both fitness opportunities and a place for neighbors to connect.

Picnic Areas and Community Gatherings

Planning a get-together? The park offers several pavilions you can reserve for family gatherings, birthday celebrations, or community events. These spaces have made O'Fallon Park a go-to spot for celebrations and reunions over the years.

The park occasionally hosts Juneteenth celebrations and other community events that bring residents together. What's nice is that even during busy times, there's enough open space that you can still find quiet corners for relaxation.

Recent Improvements

O'Fallon Park has seen some welcome updates in recent years, including infrastructure improvements and restoration work on the historic boathouse.

In a delightful nod to the park's past, rowboat rides returned to the lake in 2021 after being discontinued back in the 1970s. Safety improvements have also been implemented, including some one-way traffic sections throughout the park.

Community Impact

Surrounded by several St. Louis neighborhoods - North Riverfront, Penrose, O'Fallon, and College Hill - this green space is an important gathering place for nearby communities. For many locals, the park is more than recreation; it's a place filled with memories spanning generations.

The natural beauty and potential of O'Fallon Park shine through, but like many urban parks, it would benefit from additional maintenance and security to fully realize its value as a community treasure.