Mark Twain State Park facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Mark Twain State Park |
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Picnic shelter at Buzzard's Roost
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| Location | Monroe County, Missouri, United States |
| Area | 2,788.14 acres (1,128.32 ha) |
| Elevation | 663 ft (202 m) |
| Established | 1924 |
| Administered by | Missouri Department of Natural Resources |
| Visitors | 206,276 (in 2023) |
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Mark Twain State Park Picnic Shelter at Buzzard's Roost
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| Nearest city | Santa Fe, Missouri |
| Area | Less than one acre |
| Built | 1941 |
| Built by | CCC |
| MPS | ECW Architecture in Missouri State Parks 1933-1942 TR |
| NRHP reference No. | 85000515 |
| Added to NRHP | March 4, 1985 |
Mark Twain State Park is a wonderful place for outdoor fun in Monroe County, Missouri. This large park covers about 2,788 acres right next to Mark Twain Lake. It's a perfect spot for families and friends to enjoy nature. You can go boating, fishing, hiking, and even camping here! The park is also very close to the Mark Twain Birthplace State Historic Site, where the famous author was born.
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Discover Mark Twain State Park
Mark Twain State Park is a public recreation area in Missouri. It offers many exciting activities for visitors of all ages. The park is named after the famous American author, Mark Twain, who grew up nearby.
What Can You Do at Mark Twain State Park?
Because the park is located right on Mark Twain Lake, water activities are very popular. You can enjoy fishing for different kinds of fish. Many people also love to take their boats out on the water for a relaxing day.
If you prefer exploring on land, the park has fantastic hiking trails. These trails wind through beautiful forests, allowing you to see local plants and animals. Keep an eye out for deer, various birds, and other wildlife!
For those who want to stay longer, the park offers comfortable campgrounds. You can set up a tent or park an RV. Spending a night under the stars is a great way to experience nature up close.
A Look at the Historic Buzzard's Roost Shelter
Inside Mark Twain State Park, you'll find a special old building called the Mark Twain State Park Picnic Shelter at Buzzard's Roost. This isn't just any picnic spot; it's a historic shelter built around 1941.
The shelter is made from strong stone and has a rustic, natural look. Its design fits perfectly with the park's beautiful surroundings. It was created to be a sturdy and attractive place for visitors to relax and enjoy a meal outdoors.
Who Built the Shelter?
The Buzzard's Roost shelter was built by dedicated workers from the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). The CCC was a special program in the United States during the 1930s and 1940s. It helped young men find jobs during a tough economic time. These workers built many parks, roads, and buildings across the country. The team that built this particular shelter was made up of African-American workers. Their hard work created a lasting part of the park.
Because of its history and unique design, this picnic shelter was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1985. This means it's recognized as an important historical site worth protecting.
Where is Mark Twain State Park Located?
Mark Twain State Park is located in Monroe County, Missouri, in the United States. It's a great destination for a day trip or a longer vacation. The park's exact location can be found using its coordinates: 39°29′16″N 91°47′35″W. This helps people find it on a map!
Park Facts and Figures
This amazing park was first opened in 1924, making it nearly 100 years old! It has been welcoming visitors for generations.
In 2023, over 206,000 people visited Mark Twain State Park. That's a lot of people enjoying the beautiful outdoors!
The Missouri Department of Natural Resources is in charge of managing and protecting Mark Twain State Park. They work hard to keep the park beautiful and safe for everyone to enjoy.
