Eleven Point National Wild and Scenic River facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Eleven Point National Wild and Scenic River |
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The Eleven Point National Wild and Scenic River shown in green, and the nearby Ozark National Scenic Riverways in red
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| Location | Oregon County, Missouri |
| Nearest city | West Plains, Missouri |
| Area | 27,000 acres (109 km2) |
| Established | 1968-10-02 |
| Governing body | National Forest Service – Mark Twain National Forest |
The Eleven Point National Wild and Scenic River is a special part of the Eleven Point River in southern Missouri. It's about 44 miles (71 km) long. This river is fed by natural springs, making its water clear and cool. In 1968, the U.S. Congress decided to protect this beautiful area.
The protected section of the river runs from Thomasville to State Highway 142. The Eleven Point River was first considered for the Ozark National Scenic Riverways. However, it was later set aside as its own special area.
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What Makes This River Special?
The Eleven Point River was one of the first eight rivers chosen for the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System. This system protects rivers that have "outstandingly remarkable" natural beauty. These rivers can also be special for recreation, geology, fish, wildlife, history, or culture.
The Eleven Point River has a "scenic" designation. This means it flows freely without dams. Its shorelines are mostly wild and undeveloped. You can still reach some parts of the river by road. While it feels like a wilderness, some old homes and farms were once here. Nature has slowly reclaimed these spots over the years.
Public and Private Land
Only about half of the land along the river is public. This public land is owned by the National Forest Service. The government also has special agreements with private landowners. These agreements help keep the river's natural look for the future. However, these agreements do not allow public access to private land.
Fun Things to Do on the River
The best way to explore the Eleven Point River is by boat. Canoeing is a very popular activity here. Fishermen often use jon boats. The river is home to many kinds of fish. You might catch Smallmouth bass, rock bass, walleye, and trout.
There are simple campsites along the river called float camps. You can only reach these camps by boat. You are also allowed to camp on gravel bars along the river.
Greer Spring
Greer Spring is a very large spring that flows into the Eleven Point River. A special area around this spring was added to the Wild and Scenic River system later on.
History Along the River
You can find old mills and small dams along the springs and streams that feed the river. At Turner Spring, you can see a large mill wheel, about 25 feet (7.6 meters) wide. It stands upright in the spring branch. You can also see old rock walls and foundations from the mill.
Boze Mill Spring has a very old dam and a water turbine. Another dam stands at the old Morgan Spring area, near Billmore. You might find other smaller dam remains if you explore more. High on a ridge, you can find Greer Mill. This mill was built in 1899. The U.S. Forest Service is currently working to restore it.
Eleven Point State Park
A new park called Eleven Point State Park is being developed. It is mostly located on the historic Pigman Ranch, near Riverton. This state park will offer places for camping, hiking, and other outdoor activities. The opening date for the park has not yet been decided.
Exploring by Foot or Horseback
If you prefer to explore on land, you can use the Eleven Point Section of the Ozark Trail. This is a long hiking trail. Another option is the White's Creek Trail, which loops through the Irish Wilderness. Both trails offer great views of the river. They also follow the river for several miles.
