The Missouri Pacific Railroad ran regular service from St. Louis to Lincoln Beach, and the resort hosted around 10,000 visitors on summer weekends.

[5] Venues included the popular Lincoln Lodge and the Lone Wolf Club, a private speakeasy serving liquor illegally.

Joseph Miller, 16, lost his footing on one of the river's unexpected dropoffs and was swept away by an undertow.

According to Metro West Fire Chief Mike Krause, these sudden dropoffs, combined with the river's swift currents, are what cause swimmers to drown.

[9] The park offers fishing and boating on the Meramec River and more than 26 miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking and equestrian use.