Missouri State Parks works to preserve and interpret the state's most outstanding natural landscapes and cultural landmarks, and to provide outstanding recreational opportunities compatible with those resources. The Missouri State Park system was established in 1917 and currently includes 93 state parks and historic sites, totaling more than 150,000 acres.
![David Kelly, Deputy Director, Missouri State Parks](/sites/dnr/files/styles/large/public/media/image/2021/10/david-kelly-2021_2.jpg?itok=hy8ze1wF)
David Kelly, Director of Missouri State Parks
David Kelly was named Director of the department's Missouri State Parks in September 2021.
![Position Currently Vacant placeholder](/sites/dnr/files/styles/large/public/media/image/2021/10/position-currently-vacant.jpg?itok=0ijPK80_)
Vacant, Deputy Director of Missouri State Parks
This position is currently vacant.
![Laura Hendrickson, Deputy Director, Missouri State Parks](/sites/dnr/files/styles/large/public/media/image/2021/10/laura-hendrickson-2021-10-16_0.jpg?itok=tRkOcv_a)
Laura Hendrickson, Deputy Director of Missouri State Parks
Laura Hendrickson was named Deputy Director of Operations for the department's Missouri State Parks in October 2021.