Phantom Forest Conservation Area facts for kids
The Phantom Forest Conservation Area is a cool park in Des Peres, Missouri. It's about 13-acre (5.3 ha) big, which is like 10 football fields! This park is tucked away in a busy part of St. Louis. It gives people a chance to enjoy nature and play outside. You can find it on Barrett Station Road.
Park History: How Phantom Forest Got Its Name
This land used to belong to a man named Ray Moore and his wife, Claire. Ray Moore was a famous artist. He drew the very first pictures for The Phantom comic strip!
After Ray Moore passed away, his wife Claire made a special gift. In 1994, she gave the land to the Missouri Department of Conservation. The park was named "Phantom Forest" to remember Ray Moore and his famous comic character.
The city of Des Peres now helps take care of Phantom Forest. They started leasing the park in 2006. It officially opened for everyone to visit in 2008.
Exploring Phantom Forest: What to Do
Phantom Forest has a small parking lot right off Barrett Station Road. From there, a dirt trail leads you into the park. This trail is about half a mile long. It even connects to another nearby park called Bittersweet Woods Conservation Area.
The park is filled with deciduous trees. These are trees that lose their leaves in the fall. You can go hiking on the trail, but bikes and horses are not allowed. The trail is pretty easy to walk, so it's great for families.
As you walk, you might spot the old remains of a house hidden in the trees. It's hard to see from the trail. Past the old house, there's a small open area. Here, you'll find a bench and a special plaque. It's there to remember Claire Moore and her generous gift of the land.
Phantom Forest is also a great place for nature lovers. You can enjoy watching birds and looking for other wildlife. It's a peaceful spot to connect with nature.
Learn more about the art of Ray Moore and The Phantom comic strip
Images for kids
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This plaque honors Claire Moore, who donated the land for the park.
