Massacre Rocks State Park facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Massacre Rocks State Park |
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IUCN Category V (Protected Landscape/Seascape)
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Massacre Rocks, viewed from the visitor center
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 Massacre Rocks State Park
Location in Idaho
Massacre Rocks State Park
Location in the United States
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| Location | Power County, Idaho, United States |
| Nearest city | American Falls, Idaho |
| Area | 990 acres (4.0 km2) |
| Elevation | 4,400 ft (1,300 m) |
| Designation | Idaho state park |
| Established | 1967 |
| Administrator | Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation |
| Website | Massacre Rocks State Park |
Massacre Rocks State Park is a cool place in Idaho, USA. It's famous for its history, especially because it was a key spot on the old Oregon Trail and California Trail. These were important paths people used to travel across the country in the 1800s. The state park is located right next to the Snake River, about 10 miles southwest of American Falls. It's a great spot to learn about history and enjoy nature!
Exploring the Rocks and History
This park is known for its unique rock formations along the Snake River. People used to call these rocks by different names, like "Massacre Rocks," "Gate of Death," or "Devil's Gate." Early travelers on the trails gave them these names because the narrow path through the rocks made them worried about possible attacks.
In August 1862, some travelers had a conflict with Shoshone people near this area. Ten people from four different wagon groups died in these events. It's important to know that these conflicts happened a bit east of the park, not exactly at the "Devil's Gate" as some believed. Another event, the Clark massacre, happened west of the park in 1851.
The rocks were often used as a camping spot for wagon trains. Many travelers carved their names and dates into a special rock called Register Rock. Today, this rock is protected by a shelter. The path that the wagons once took through the rocks is now where Interstate 86 runs.
The rocks you see at the park were formed by ancient volcanic activity. They were placed in their current spot about 14,500 years ago. This happened during a huge natural event called the Bonneville Flood. During this flood, a lot of water from Lake Bonneville rushed down the Snake River. On the other side of the river from the park, you can even see a notch in the cliff. This was once a waterfall from a side channel of the floodwaters!
Massacre Rocks became a state park in 1967. Before that, it was a smaller park managed by the Idaho Department of Transportation.
Animals You Might See
Massacre Rocks State Park is home to many different animals. If you visit, you might spot various birds like Canada geese, great blue herons, grebes, pelicans, and even bald eagles.
Some of the mammals that live here include beavers, jackrabbits, cottontail rabbits, muskrats, and coyotes. Keep an eye out for them!
Fun Things to Do at the Park
It's easy to get to Massacre Rocks State Park by car, as it's right off Interstate 86. You can also walk to the park from rest areas located just east of it. These walking paths also let you explore parts of the original Oregon Trail that are still visible.
At the park's visitor center, you can learn all about the park's history and how its unique geology was formed. The park offers many activities, including:
- Trails for hiking and biking.
- A disc golf course.
- A campground if you want to stay overnight.
- Access to the Snake River for water activities.
