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Thousand Hills State Park: Nature, History, and Recreation

Explore nature and history at Thousand Hills State Park: fishing, hiking, ancient petroglyphs, and scenic Forest Lake adventures await!

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Thousand Hills State Park, near Kirksville, Missouri, offers a blend of outdoor activities and historical exploration. The park's centerpiece is the 573-acre Forest Lake, perfect for fishing, boating, and swimming, while the surrounding area provides opportunities for hiking and observing wildlife. Don't miss the petroglyphs, ancient Native American rock carvings dating back over 1,500 years, preserved in an interpretive shelter.

A brief summary to Thousand Hills State Park

Local tips

  • Visit the Petroglyph Shelter to see ancient Native American rock carvings dating back over 1,500 years.
  • Rent a boat at the marina and explore Forest Lake, perfect for fishing, swimming and boating.
  • Hike or bike the Thousand Hills Trail for a scenic 10.5-mile loop around the lake.
  • Check the park's event calendar for interpretive programs, nature walks, and other activities.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Thousand Hills State Park is located approximately 2 miles west of Kirksville, Missouri. From Kirksville, take Highway 6 west. Turn south onto MO-157 and follow it to the park entrance. Once inside the park, follow Big Loop Trail Road to reach popular destinations like the marina, beach, and petroglyph shelter. Parking is available near these attractions. There are no fees for parking.

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Discover more about Thousand Hills State Park

Thousand Hills State Park, a 3,215-acre haven just west of Kirksville, Missouri, invites visitors to immerse themselves in nature and history. The park's gently rolling hills and wooded shores surround Forest Lake, a 573-acre reservoir that serves as a hub for water-based recreation. Forest Lake is ideal for fishing, boating, and swimming. Anglers can cast their lines for crappie, largemouth bass, walleye, and channel catfish. Boat rentals are available at the marina, where you can find canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, and fishing boats. The lake's 17 miles of shoreline provide ample space for exploration and relaxation. Please note that the beach is closed for the entire 2025 season due to construction. On land, the park boasts hiking and mountain biking trails that wind through diverse landscapes. The Thousand Hills Trail, a 10.5-mile loop around Forest Lake, is popular among mountain bikers. For a more accessible option, the Carolyn Bagley Harding Trail is a concrete path suitable for wheelchairs and strollers, offering scenic views of the lake. One of the park's unique features is the collection of Native American petroglyphs, estimated to be at least 1,500 years old. These rock carvings are protected in an enclosed observation and interpretation center, where visitors can learn about their historical and cultural significance. The petroglyphs offer a glimpse into the lives and beliefs of the area's early inhabitants. Thousand Hills State Park was established in the 1950s after the construction of Forest Lake to provide Kirksville with a reliable water supply. The land was donated to the state with the promise of creating a park to protect the area around the reservoir. Today, the park continues to offer a variety of recreational and educational opportunities, making it a destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

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