Hawn State Park facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Hawn State Park |
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Location | Ste. Genevieve, Missouri, United States |
Area | 4,955.66 acres (20.0548 km2) |
Elevation | 801 ft (244 m) |
Established | 1955 |
Named for | Helen Coffer Hawn |
Governing body | Missouri Department of Natural Resources |
Website | Hawn State Park |
Hawn State Park is a fun place for outdoor activities in Missouri. It's about 14 miles southwest of a town called Ste. Genevieve. This large park covers almost 5,000 acres. Inside the park, you'll find three special natural areas. These are called Pickle Creek, LaMotte Sandstone Barrens, and Botkins Pine Woods. There's also a place called Orchid Valley. It's part of the park but isn't connected to the main area. Orchid Valley is not open to visitors.
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How Hawn State Park Started
Hawn State Park was named after a kind school teacher, Helen Coffer Hawn. She loved nature and wanted to create a park. Starting in 1932, she bought twelve different pieces of land. In 1952, she left her first 1,500 acres to the state of Missouri. This gift helped create the park we know today. The park officially opened in 1955.
Things to Do at Hawn State Park
Hawn State Park offers many cool activities for visitors. You can spend time outdoors and explore nature.
Camping and Picnics
The park has places where you can go camping. This means you can stay overnight in a tent or RV. There are also picnic areas. These are perfect spots to enjoy a meal with your family and friends.
Fishing Fun
If you like fishing, you can try your luck in the park's waters. It's a great way to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Hiking Trails
Hawn State Park has three main hiking trails. They are called Whispering Pines, White Oak, and Pickle Creek. These trails let you explore different parts of the park.
- The trails cross the River aux Vases. This is a stream that flows into the Mississippi River.
- You will also see Pickle Creek. This is a smaller stream that flows into the River aux Vases.