Special Use Permits

Special use permits are required for any special use activities including scientific research projects, kayak races or river-related activities, and commercial photography and filming (including digital cinematography). In some cases, a permit fee may be required. Please allow 2-4 weeks for processing. Any application fees required must be paid prior to processing permit.

A special park use is defined as a short-term activity that takes place in a park area, and that:

• provides a benefit to an individual, group or organization rather than the public at large;
• requires written authorization and some degree of management control from the National Park Service (NPS) in order to protect park resources and the public interest;
• is not prohibited by law or regulation;
• is not initiated, sponsored, or conducted by the NPS; and is not managed under a concession contract, a recreation activity for which the NPS charges a fee, or a lease.

Examples of activities requiring a special use permit within Missouri National Recreational River include river races or river events, memorial services, commercial filming and/or still photography, and/or collection of resource materials.

To apply for a permit please select from the following links:

• Application for Special Use Permit

For more information on filming in National Park Units, please visit this website: Filming & Still Photography Permits (U.S. National Park Service) (nps.gov)

• Application for Filming and Still Photography Permit

Have a question? Please contact the park via Email or call 605-665-0209.

Scientific Research Projects
The online application for Scientific Research projects can be found at:
https://irma.nps.gov/rprs/Home