Missouri Wilsons Creek National Battlefield map and highlights

On August 10, 1861, the first major Civil War engagement west  of the Mississippi River was fought at this site. It was a battle of  more than 5,000 Union troops and 10,000 Confederates; the former lost  General Nathanial Lyon, the first Union leader, while the latter emerged  victorious. Today, with the exception of the vegetation, the 1,750-acre  battlefield has changed little from its historic setting. Major sites  include a 5-mi tour road, the restored 1852 Ray House, and "Bloody  Hill," the scene of the major battle. The site was authorized as a  national battlefield park in 1960 and redesignated in 1970.     

      

WHAT TO SEE & DO     

Hiking, touring battlefield and Ray House. Facilities: Visitor  center, outdoor interpretive exhibits, guided and self-guided tours,  hiking trails. Bookstore, covered picnic tables. Programs & Events:  Self-guided auto tour, self-guided tours of Bloody Hill. Living-history  programs and Ray House tours (weekends Memorial Day-Labor Day). Battle  anniversary (Aug. 10). Tips & Hints: Plan to spend at least two  hours. Busiest May-Aug., least crowded in Nov. and Jan.     

      

FOOD, LODGING & SUPPLIES     

H Hotel: None in park. In Springfield: Clarion (3333 S.  Glenstone St., tel. 417/883-6550; 195 rooms; $70-$90). X Restaurants:  None in park. In Springfield: Hemingways Restaurant (1935 S. Campbell  Ave., 4th fl. Bass Pro Shop, tel. 417/891-5100; $5-$10; no dinner Sun.),  Zios Italian Kitchen (1249 E. Kingsley St., tel. 417/889-1919;  $5-$10).  Groceries & Gear: None in park. In Springfield: Bass Pro  Shops (1935 S. Campbell Ave., tel. 417/887-7334). In Republic: Price  Cutter (1013 U.S. 60 E, tel. 417/732-2828).     

      

FEES & HOURS     

Entrance fee: $3 adults, free ages 17 and under, $5 per  vehicle. Park open daily 8-5; extended hours in summer. Visitor center  open daily 8--5.     

      

HOW TO GET THERE     

18 mi southwest of Springfield via 1-44 and Exit 70 (Rte. MM),  Rte. ZZ south, and Farm Rd. 182; and via U.S. 60/65, Rte. 14, Rte. ZZ,  and Farm Rd. 182. Closest airport: Springfield.