Wildlife Watching in the MNRR

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  • Missouri National Recreational River is a great place to go to observe mammals in their native and wild habitat. Wild animals are an important and vital part of our natural ecosystem. We humans can learn a great deal by carefully observing animals.
  • Stargaze at Spirit Mound

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  • stargaze
  • Fishing in the MNRR

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  • Fishing is a main recreational activity in the Missouri National Recreational River.
  • Hunting in the MNRR

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  • Hunting & trapping is permitted in Bow Creek and Goat Island Recreation Areas in accordance with site-specific regulations.
  • Backcountry Camping in the MNRR

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  • Missouri National Recreational River offers primitive, Leave-No-Trace camping available at Bow Creek, Green Island, and Goat Island Recreation Areas.
  • Paddle the MNRR

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  • Paddle the two free-flowing sections of the Missouri, North America's longest river, a vestige of the untamed American West.
  • Boating in the Missouri NRR

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  • Whether you are fishing or enjoying the scenery and wildlife, boating is a great way to experience the river.
  • Biking in the MNRR

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  • Various partners have different biking paths.
  • Become a MNRR Junior Ranger

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  • Do you care about exploring, learning about, and protecting the Missouri River? If yes, become a Junior Ranger! There are many ways to earn a Junior Ranger badge at Missouri National Recreational River, and this fun activity book is a great place to start. This booklet includes activities like crosswords, drawings, matching activities, maps, and more to help you learn about the Missouri River.
  • 30-45 Minutes
  • Watch "River of Change"

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  • This 18-minute film tells the story of Missouri National Recreational River. Learn about the park's wildlife as well as the history of the river, explorers, and people who lived along the river.
  • 18 Minutes
  • Tour the Mobile Ranger Station

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  • The Mobile Ranger Station travels to schools, special events and programs and is often set up in various sites along the MNRR. If you're interested in its schedule contact Park Ranger Dugan Smith at 605-665-0209 Ext 28 or visit our park calendar on our webpage or the NPS app to see where it is headed next!
  • Walk the Historic Meridian Bridge

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  • The bridge allows you to cross from South Dakota to Nebraska while offering splendid views of the Missouri National Recreational River. The bridge also connects to the City of Yankton Forest Tract with hiking trails that lead to the river. Parking is available near the intersection of Walnut and Second Street in Yankton, SD. Average visit time: 30 minutes.
  • 30 Minutes
  • Explore the Middle Missouri with Lewis and Clark

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  • Explore the Missouri River through the perspective of Lewis and Clark with these notable places within the MNRR.
  • Visit Mulberry Bend Overlook

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  • Great view of the river and sandbars from the overlooks. A paved trail takes visitors from the parking lot to several interpretive wayside exhibits that define the natural and cultural history of the river. Continue your journey by exploring a bur oak forest on the Nature Trail. Average visit time: 30 minutes. Nature Trail may take 60 minutes.