JEFFERSON CITY, MO, JUNE 24, 2011 – Lewis and Clark State Park near Rushville in Buchanan County has been closed temporarily because of flooding from rising water levels from the Missouri River. Missouri State Park officials closed the park today and will continue to evaluate the situation to determine when the park can reopen.
“We have been watching the water levels and monitoring forecasts to determine if and when water will affect Lewis and Clark State Park,” said Bill Bryan, Missouri State Parks director, a division of the Department of Natural Resources. "Because of rising water levels in Lewis and Clark Lake, we decided to close the park immediately."
Although the park had been open for use, staff has been preparing for possible flooding such as removing equipment and other items. Campers have been relocated toWeston Bend State Park and campers with reservations had already been notified that flooding was likely. Because of its location on an oxbow lake near the Missouri River, Lewis and Clark State Park has experienced flooding in the past and has plans in place for how to deal with flooding situations. Staff will continue to monitor the situation and reopen the park when it is safe for visitors to return.
Although Lewis and Clark State Park is temporarily closed, there are other state parks in northwest Missouri that are open for campers and other visitors. These includeWallace State Park near Cameron, Weston Bend State Park near Weston and WatkinsMill State Park and State Historic Site near Lawson. For information about these state parks, visit mostateparks.com.
To check the status of Lewis and Clark State Park or for more information aboutMissouri state parks, go to mostateparks.com or call the Department of Natural Resources toll free at 800-334-6946 (voice) or 800-379-2419 (TDD).
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