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Petroglyphs, as well as, quaint hiking shelters and incredible Ozark overlooks define the Washington State Park experience. The park offers easy access to the Big River. This makes the park great for swimming and fishing, as well as, canoeing and kayaking. The park’s three hiking trails address every type of hike. Choose from easy strolls to power hikes. Buildings constructed by African-American Civilian Conservation Corps stonemasons complement the park and add to its sense of history.
Washington State Park is perhaps best known as having been the location of prehistoric ceremonies associated with the Indian culture. This period is known as the Mississippian by archaeologists. Petroglyphs, or rock carvings, remain as evidence of their beliefs. They also give clues to understanding the lives of these people. They are believed to have inhabited the area around A.D. 1,000. The park contains the largest group of petroglyphs yet discovered in Missouri. These sites were placed on the National Register of Historic Places. This was due to the number and exceptional quality of the carvings.
CAMP THUNDERBIRD
The petroglyphs are not Washington State Park’s only claim to masterful craftsmanship in stone. An African-American company of the Civilian Conservation Corps began to develop the area. This was shortly after the land had been donated for the park in 1932. Inspired by Indian petroglyphs in the park, the all-black company named their barracks “Camp Thunderbird.” They continued that theme at the former dining lodge. The lodge now serves as a camper store, as well as, a snack bar. The lodge has an Indian thunderbird symbol carved in its stone chimney. This theme is repeated in the handmade iron door hinges.
The stonemasons also did extensive roadside work. They laid stone for what is known as the 1,000 Steps Trail, and worked on 14 buildings. These include an octagonal lookout shelter of interesting rustic design. The exceptional quality of their craftsmanship in stone earned them high praise. This is listed in the National Register of Historic Places’ citation for the park.
BIG RIVER
Another notable natural feature of the park are the towering dolomite bluffs overlooking the Big River. The river has long been a popular floating and canoeing waterway. Below the bluffs, anglers enjoy catching bass and catfish, as well as, bluegill and carp. Swimmers and sunbathers have a choice between a natural gravel bar in the river or an Olympic-size swimming pool. A picnic gazebo located at the scenic overlook provides a majestic view of the Big River and surrounding area. During the summer, naturalist-led programs explain the significance of the park features.
There are three marked hiking trails. These include the 1,000 Steps Trail, Opossum Track Trail along the bluffs overlooking the river. The more rugged Rockywood Trail, includes a backpack camp.
Other campers can make use of both basic and improved campsites at the campground. These include a dumping station, as well as, modern restrooms and hot showers. One and two bedroom cabins are available for rent. Fully equipped kitchens, as well as air-conditioning are also available in the cabins.
PARK HOURS & FEES
Contact Park
PARK PHONE
636-586-5768
Lodging/Store/Canoe Rentals 636-222-2153
PARK ADDRESS
13041 State Hwy. 104
De Soto, MO 63020-7000
For more information click HERE.
Have you visited this state park? If so, please leave a comment. Thanks.
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