Best Places to Fly
Your Drone in St Louis

Forest Park is another St Louis beautiful recreational area that allows drones (with conditions). The 1371-acre park is only 4 miles to the west of downtown. It’s a well-established space that boasts glorious meadows, lots of mature trees, ponds, streams, and a lake. Other significant highlights include the St. Louis Zoo, a Science Center, and local history and art museums. The wide-open green spaces and plethora of attractions give drone pilots plenty to explore.

Point to note: Drone users need a permit and proof of insurance cover to fly in Forest Park at the last check. Contact the City of St. Louis Board of Public Service for details.

The Old Chain of Rocks bridge is one of the more iconic bridges that cross the Mississippi River. It offers great views of the rapids and has a very distinct bend right at the middle of the bridge. To catch photos of the bridge and the river, you can launch your drone either at the Missouri or Illinois side of the bridge.

Covering almost 7000 acres of land area, the August Busch Memorial Conservation Area offers a wide variety of recreational areas including biking and walking trails, open fields, and hunting and fishing areas. If you’re flying a drone, we advise sticking to the open areas to avoid disturbing the wildlife in this park.

The Lafayette Park is considered one of the oldest urban parks in St. Louis. With historic buildings, walking trails, a small lake, and a healthy amount of trees, Lafayette Park’s lack of open space is made up for with its spectacular beauty. It’s a good spot for drone photography but be aware of the relatively small space and the frequent crowds.

Buder North Park is home to the Aeropilots R/C Flying Club, which is dedicated to RC aircraft, including drones. The Greater Saint Louis Model Association (GSLMA) is responsible for supervising the airfield. Everyone is welcome to fly here under the conditions set out by the organizers. This designated flying space is an excellent place to practice and develop piloting skills. Younger kids and anyone else new to RC aircraft are especially welcome.

Point to note: Beginners can only fly here under the supervision of an experienced R/C pilot. That person must also carry proof of a valid flying permit and certificate of insurance.

The Laumeier Sculpture Park is an open-air museum that features contemporary art. It’s a good spot to fly if you’re looking for a change of pace from other drone flight locations. The sculptures here are very visually distinct and will make interesting subjects for aerial photography. Just keep in mind that flying over the park is discouraged, especially during crowded days.

In the southeastern corner of St. Louis is the 180-acre Carondelet Park, founded in 1875. It’s the city’s third-largest recreation space and a popular escape for locals and out-of-town visitors. The park has a picturesque boathouse, a couple of fishing ponds, walking paths, and lots of wide-open green space. Other attractions are the pool, horseshoe pits, and various sporting amenities. Drone pilots have lots to explore, scenic views, and some great filming opportunities.

Point to note: Drone users need a permit and proof of insurance cover to fly in Carondelet Park at the last check. Contact the City of St. Louis Board of Public Service for details.