Check out what Missouri’s state parks offer around Kansas City

When you think of Kansas City, most Missourians think of football and the Chiefs. Well, there’s more to do around Kansas City at nearby state parks.

Saturday, Sept. 30: Watkins Mill Association 10th Annual Get Outdoors 6.6k race at Watkins Mill State Park

Lace up you running shoes for the 10th annual Get Outdoors 6.6k race! Join the Watkins Mill Association and enjoy the park’s trails by running or walking the certified 6.6k course. Each entry ticket will include two passes for a guided tour of Watkins Woolen Mill and the Watkins house, a t-shirt, runners bib and medal. Proceeds from the race will benefit the park and site. Check-in begins at 7 a.m., with the race starting at 8 a.m. Participants can register by visiting watkinsmill.org/6k. The park is located at 26600 Park Road N in Lawson.

Saturday, Sept. 30: Talking Tobacco at Weston Bend State Park

Stop by the park from 10 a.m. to noon for a look inside the historic tobacco barn. Guests will learn about Missouri-grown tobacco’s the history and growing process. Weston Bend State Park is located at 16600 Highway 45 N in Weston.

For detailed information on any of these activities, please visit mostateparks.com/events. For more information on state parks and historic sites, visit mostateparks.com. Missouri State Parks is a division of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.