Ozark Mountain State Park facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Ozark Mountain State Park |
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Location | Taney, Missouri, United States |
Area | 1,011 acres (4.09 km2) |
Elevation | 853 ft (260 m) |
Established | 2016 |
Governing body | Missouri Department of Natural Resources |
Website | Ozark Mountain State Park |
Ozark Mountain State Park is a large natural area in Taney County, Missouri. It covers about 1,011 acres, which is like 765 football fields! This park is a special place where nature is protected. It was created in 2016 to give people a chance to enjoy the outdoors.
Right now, the park is not open to the public. The people in charge are asking for ideas on how to best use the land. They want to make sure the park is developed in a way that protects nature and offers fun activities for everyone.
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What is a State Park?
A state park is a piece of land that a state government protects. These parks are set aside for people to enjoy nature. They often have trails for hiking, places for picnics, and areas to see wildlife. State parks help keep natural places safe for plants and animals. They also give people a chance to learn about nature.
Where is Ozark Mountain State Park Located?
Ozark Mountain State Park is found in the beautiful Ozarks region of southern Missouri. It is in Taney County, which is known for its rolling hills and clear streams. The park shares a border with another protected area called the Ruth and Paul Henning Conservation Area. This means there's a huge connected space for nature to thrive.
Waterways in the Park
A stream called Roark Creek flows through the park for more than two miles. Part of this includes the East Fork Roark Creek. Creeks and streams are very important for the park's ecosystem. They provide water for animals and help different plants grow. These waterways also create beautiful natural scenes.
A Glimpse into History
Even though it's a new park, Ozark Mountain State Park has a bit of history. Inside the park, there is an old one-room schoolhouse. This schoolhouse used to serve the small community of Garber. A one-room schoolhouse was a place where all the students, no matter their age, learned together in one classroom. It's a cool reminder of how people lived and learned a long time ago in this area.
The Future of the Park
Ozark Mountain State Park was one of three new parks announced by Governor Jay Nixon in December 2016. A governor is the elected leader of a state. Governor Nixon wanted to create more places for people to enjoy Missouri's natural beauty. The park is still being planned, but it will soon be a great spot for outdoor adventures. It will be a place where you can explore the Ozark Mountains and connect with nature.