Dolliver Memorial State Park

Located along the scenic Des Moines River Valley, Dolliver Memorial State Park spreads across 614 acres boasting unique bluffs, canyons, flatlands, ancient Native American mounds and an abundance of exploration opportunities.

Recreation: Trails While visiting, enjoy the park's rugged and well-maintained trail system. Nearly six miles of winding trails lead through the Copperas Beds, unique sandstone formations that tower 100 feet above Prairie Creek. Here you will see an ancient, more than 350 million years old, river bed and witness the erosive power of Prairie Creek that uncovered and left behind this breathtaking feature. The trail continues up into oak-covered hillsides and along two hilltop prairies as you travel through the woods. Follow the trail north to Bone Yard Hollow, a unique historical area in Webster County. Bone Yard Hollow is said to have been given its name by early settlers who found large numbers of bison bones in the canyon. It is believed that the first inhabitants in the area drove herds of bison from the prairie over the cliff to their deaths so they might use the animals for their meat, hides, horns and bones. Native American Mounds Located in the upland timber, ancient Native American mounds overlook the Des Moines River Valley. There are one linear and two conical mounds at this site. All the mounds in this area probably date to the Woodland Culture, approximately 1100 A.D. The Indian mounds were either ceremonial or burial in nature.. River Access A boat ramp allows access to the Des Moines River for canoeists and anglers.