Perseid Meteor Shower Viewing Event
8/14/2026 | Elephant Rocks State Park | Belleview, Mo.
To mark this summer's biggest meteor shower, the Perseids, Elephant Rocks State Park will be open to the public for a rare after-dark event. You’re invited to view this spectacular phenomenon from 8 p.m. to midnight on Friday, Aug. 14. So, if you like stargazing or light shows and are able to brave the August bugs and heat, come join us at the park to create a lifelong memory.
About the shower:
- The Perseids are caused by particles released by the comet 109P/Swift-Tuttle.
- This shower features an average of 50-75 meteors per hour.
- The meteors can be viewed with the naked eye.
- This year's shower corresponds with a new moon.
Event guidelines and reminders:
- This viewing event is free and open to the public; there is no need to register.
- Park staff will be available to direct you to the best and safest areas to view the shower.
- Elephant Rocks is a carry-in, carry-out park; please bring in only what you will be able to carry out when you leave. Trash receptacles will be provided in the parking lot.
- You do not need to use any viewing devices to see the shower, but you are welcome to bring your own devices if you want.
- Attendees are expected to be respectful of others and should avoid excessive noise and use of artificial light.
- No tents or other invasive camping equipment such as lanterns or propane heaters will be allowed, but you can bring portable chairs for seating and blankets to keep warm.
- Absolutely no campfires will be allowed.
- Please remember to dress for the weather. During the summer, the rocks are often hot early in the evening and then become cooler as the night progresses. Be prepared to add layers as needed.
- Mosquitoes and ticks are common during this time of year. Come prepared with insect repellent.
- If there is bad weather, the event will be moved to the following night, Saturday, Aug. 15. The times will remain the same: 8 p.m. to midnight.
Elephant Rocks State Park Contact Information:
- Address: 7406 Highway 21, Belleview, Mo.
- Phone number: 573-546-3454