Don Robinson State Park facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Don Robinson State Park |
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Park overlook and Robinson stone house
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 Don Robinson State Park
Location in Missouri
Don Robinson State Park
Location in the United States
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| Location | Jefferson, Missouri, United States |
| Area | 818.18 acres (331.11 ha) |
| Established | 2013 |
| Governing body | Missouri Department of Natural Resources |
| Website | Don Robinson State Park |
Don Robinson State Park is a beautiful outdoor area in Jefferson County, Missouri. It covers more than 800 acres of land. This park is known for its amazing natural features. You can find unique sandstone canyons, cool shelter caves, tall cliffs, and open glades. It also has different types of forests, both on high ground and near rivers.
The park was created thanks to a man named Don Robinson. He was a businessman who loved nature. After he passed away in 2012, he left his land to the state. This allowed the land to become a public park for everyone to enjoy. Don Robinson started buying pieces of this land in the 1960s. He wanted to own an area as big as New York City's famous Central Park. The park officially opened to visitors in 2017. Inside, you can see the stone house where Don Robinson lived starting in 1978. There are also two hiking trails and a nice spot for picnics.
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Exploring Don Robinson State Park
Don Robinson State Park offers many exciting things to see and do. It's a great place to connect with nature and learn about different landscapes.
What Makes the Park Special?
The park's landscape is very rugged and unique. It is located in the upper part of the LaBarque Creek watershed. This means it's an important area for water flow and wildlife.
- Sandstone Box Canyons: These are narrow canyons with steep sides made of sandstone. They are fun to explore.
- Shelter Caves: These are natural rock overhangs that offer shelter. People have used them for thousands of years.
- Cliffs and Glades: You can see tall cliffs and open, rocky areas called glades. These glades are home to special plants and animals.
- Forests: The park has both upland forests (on higher ground) and bottomland forests (near streams). These forests provide homes for many animals.
Activities at the Park
Don Robinson State Park is perfect for outdoor adventures.
- Hiking: There are two main hiking trails. These trails let you explore the park's diverse landscapes.
- Picnicking: The park has a designated area where you can enjoy a meal outdoors with family and friends.
- Nature Observation: It's a wonderful place to watch birds, spot wildlife, and enjoy the quiet beauty of nature.
The History of Don Robinson's Land
Don Robinson had a special vision for this land. He spent many years carefully buying different parcels. His goal was to protect this beautiful natural area.
Don Robinson's Vision
Don Robinson started buying land in the 1960s. He wanted to create a large natural space. He dreamed of owning an area as big as Central Park in New York City. While he didn't quite reach that size, he did gather over 800 acres. This land is now protected forever as a state park.
From Private Land to Public Park
After Don Robinson passed away in 2012, his land was given to the state of Missouri. This generous gift allowed the Missouri Department of Natural Resources to turn it into a state park. It took a few years to prepare the park for visitors. Finally, Don Robinson State Park opened its gates to the public in 2017.
