Makoshika State Park facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Makoshika State Park |
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Rock formations in the park
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 Makoshika State Park
Location in Montana
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| Location | Dawson County, Montana, United States |
| Nearest city | Glendive, Montana |
| Area | 11,538 acres (4,669 ha) |
| Elevation | 2,566 ft (782 m) |
| Designation | Montana state park |
| Established | 1953 |
| Administrator | Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks |
| Website | Makoshika State Park |
Makoshika State Park is a super cool nature area in Glendive, Montana. Its name, "ma-KO-sh(ih)kuh," comes from the Lakota language and means 'bad land' or 'land of bad spirits.' This name fits perfectly because the park is full of amazing badlands formations. It's the biggest state park in Montana, covering more than 11,000 acres! Here, you can find incredible dinosaur fossils and unique rocks from the Hell Creek Formation.
Contents
Park History: How Makoshika Began
Makoshika State Park has an interesting past. Back in 1938, people from Glendive thought this area would make a great national park. They wanted to attract more visitors to their town.
- A local official wrote to the government, asking them to check out the badlands.
- He hoped it would become a park and encourage tourists to stay longer in Glendive.
However, the National Park Service decided the area wasn't "nationally important" enough for a national park. So, it became a state park instead!
- In 1939, Dawson County gave 160 acres of land to the state.
- Another 80 acres were added in 1953.
- Over many years, more land was added from different sources, making it the huge park it is today.
Dinosaur Discoveries: Ancient Giants
Makoshika State Park is a treasure chest for dinosaur fans! Many amazing dinosaur fossils have been found here.
- You can find fossils of dinosaurs like Triceratops and Thescelosaurus.
- In 1991, scientists found a huge 600-pound skull of a young female Triceratops. It was 5.5 feet long!
- This impressive skull is now on display at the park's visitor center. You can see it up close!
- In 1997, a team led by famous paleontologist Jack Horner found something special. They discovered what's believed to be the largest and most complete skeleton of a Thescelosaurus ever found.
Wildlife: Animals of the Badlands
Makoshika State Park is home to many cool animals that thrive in its unique environment.
- Keep an eye out for Turkey vultures soaring high above.
- You might also spot Prairie falcons hunting.
- Golden eagles, majestic birds of prey, also live in the park.
Activities and Amenities: Fun Things to Do
Makoshika State Park offers lots of activities for visitors of all ages. It's a great place to explore nature and learn something new.
- Visitor Center: Start your adventure at the visitor center. It has awesome displays about the park's geology and the fossils found there.
- Scenic Drives: Take a drive through the park to see breathtaking views of the badlands.
- Nature Trails: Hike on the trails to get up close to the unique rock formations and look for wildlife.
- Campground: If you want to stay longer, there's a campground where you can pitch a tent.
- Archery Area: Practice your archery skills at the special archery area.
- Amphitheater: The park has an amphitheater, often used for educational programs and events.
- Picnicking: Enjoy a meal outdoors at one of the picnicking spots.
- Special Events: Don't miss the annual "Buzzard Day" celebration, a fun event held in the park!
