Goat Island (Missouri River) facts for kids
NPS Map of the Missouri National Recreational River
|
|
| Geography | |
|---|---|
| Coordinates | 42°46′00″N 97°04′16″W / 42.766607°N 97.071020°W |
| Adjacent bodies of water | Missouri River |
| Administration | |
| U.S. Government | U.S. National Park Service |
| Location | Nebraska and South Dakota |
| Additional information | |
| Official website | MNRR - Goat Island |
Goat Island is a cool island located in the Missouri River. It sits between Nebraska and South Dakota in the United States. This special island is open for everyone to visit! It's part of the Missouri National Recreational River, which is managed by the National Park Service.
Contents
Goat Island: A Special Place
Goat Island is a unique piece of land in the middle of the Missouri River. It's a great spot for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers. The island is known for its natural beauty and peaceful environment.
Where is Goat Island?
The island is mostly in Cedar County, Nebraska. A small part of it also stretches into Clay County, South Dakota. This makes it a border island between two states. The Missouri River itself forms a natural boundary here.
Who Manages Goat Island?
Goat Island is managed by the National Park Service (NPS). The NPS is a U.S. government agency. They protect and manage national parks and other special places. Goat Island is part of the Missouri National Recreational River. This means it's a protected area.
The Missouri National Recreational River
The Missouri National Recreational River is a unit of the National Park Service. It protects parts of the Missouri River. This area is important for its history and natural environment. It offers many chances for outdoor fun.
History of Goat Island's Ownership
For a long time, no one was quite sure who owned Goat Island. This was because the island was never officially measured or mapped. This happened after Nebraska and South Dakota became states.
Solving the Ownership Mystery
The question of who owned the island caused some confusion. It wasn't until 2016 that an agreement was reached. It was decided that the National Park Service would manage the island. This made Goat Island an official part of the Missouri National Recreational River. This agreement helps protect the island for everyone to enjoy.
Visiting Goat Island
Since Goat Island is part of a national park unit, it is open to the public. This means you can visit and explore the island. It's a great place to experience nature.
What Can You Do There?
Visitors to Goat Island can enjoy many outdoor activities. You can go fishing in the river. Boating is also a popular way to explore the area. It's a wonderful spot for enjoying the quiet beauty of the river. Remember to always follow park rules. This helps keep the island safe and clean for everyone.
