CENTER — From the shade of tall cottonwood trees to the tranquil views along the Missouri River, Cross Ranch State Park is one cool place. Different too. And therein lies an appeal that transforms a first-time visitor into a frequent visitor.
Current Park Manager Terry Mitchell can attest to being surprised at the setting of the park, which is situated along the banks of the Missouri River. Mitchell has been park manager for just over one year.
“I love it here. You don’t think of this park when you come in because you are up on top, on the prairie,” said Mitchell. “Then you drop down here and it’s like a whole different world. It’s pretty amazing.”
Cross Ranch is a much different experience than what many expect from a State Park. It is nestled in comforting cottonwood trees that have overlooked the bottomland along the Missouri River for countless years. A visitor to Cross Ranch quickly gets the feel of days past, finding the soothing shade of tall trees is nature’s very effective air conditioner. Inevitably, life slows down as the visitor becomes captivated by the environment around them. It’s a good feeling.
There’s no shortage of things to do for the more adventurous visitors to Cross Ranch State Park. The campground has both modern and primitive sites, with an abundance of trees that provide an atmosphere much different from the land above the river bottom.
“We have about 17 miles of hiking trails. Hikers and bikers enjoy those,” said Mitchell. “We also do canoe and kayak runs, allowing people to enjoy the Missouri River in a multitude of ways, hiking along it or floating down it.”
The park has four canoes and four kayaks for rent, by the hour or by the day. Paddles and life vests are included.
“We have seven overnight facilities, cabins and yurts, some full-service,” said Mitchell. “A visitor can pick and choose from some comfort or the whole gamut. They are always in demand.”
Further information on Cross Ranch State Park can be found on the State Parks website or by calling 701-794-3731.
