Mushroom foraging laws in Missouri
Compiled from official sources; not legal advice. Rules change. Confirm with the land manager or the agency before you pick.
Summary
Missouri Department of Conservation rules say mushrooms on its areas may be taken only for personal consumption, and banned at several nature centers. MDC says most conservation areas and state parks allow mushroom collecting but rules vary. State park rules cap mushroom collecting at a two-gallon container but are worded in a confusing way, so ask the park.
Public land
MDC rule 3 CSR 10-11.135 says mushrooms may be taken only for personal consumption on department areas, and bans taking them at listed nature centers and education centers (Burr Oak Woods and Rockwoods Reservation allow mushrooms only). MDC says most state parks and conservation areas allow mushroom collecting, but regulations vary. State park rules (10 CSR 90-2.040) bar removing plants without the director's written permission and have a separate mushroom paragraph; see limits.
Permits
MDC's mushroom rule and mushroom-hunting page do not mention a permit. In state parks, removing plants needs written permission from the director (10 CSR 90-2.040(4)(A)).
Limits
State park rule 10 CSR 90-2.040(4)(C) allows collecting edible mushrooms by hand for personal consumption in a quantity not to exceed a two-gallon container, but as written it says 'outside a state park or state historic site', so ask the park what applies inside. MDC's rule sets no number limit; its page says not to overharvest.
Selling
MDC's rule limits mushrooms taken on department areas to personal consumption. We found no Missouri rule on selling wild mushrooms to restaurants or stores; ask your local health department.
Sources
- Missouri Dept. of Conservation - 3 CSR 10-11.135 Wild Plants, Plant Products, and Mushrooms
- Missouri Department of Conservation - Mushroom hunting
- Missouri Code of State Regulations - 10 CSR 90-2 (State Parks)
Last verified: November 11, 2026