National and State Parks - Recreational Areas
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Beaver Creek Valley State Park
State Park Information
State Park Overview
Nature of the Area
Beaver Creek Valley State Park is in the Blufflands Landscape Region. It is a nature lovers paradise because of the diversity of natural communities. Bottomland hardwoods such as black ash, willow, box elder, cottonwood and
elm grow in the valley while a mix of maple, walnut, basswood and oak thrive above the valley. Small patches of native prairie and oak savanna occupy some of the south and west-facing slopes in the park.
The park is situated in one of the most interesting geologic areas in Minnesota, the "driftless area." The area covers 10,000 square miles in adjoining parts of Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa and
Illinois, which were untouched by the most recent glacial advances. However -s the glaciers receded, torrents of meltwater poured into streams and rivers, carving deep rugged valleys. These rocky walls are made up of a layer of sandstone sandwiched between two layers of dolomite, which were deposited by inland seas between 450 and 500 million years ago.
The great diversity of plant species contribute to a great diversity of wildlife. Deer, raccoon, muskrat, mink, badger, red and gray fox - occasional beaver and
wild turkey may be spotted in the park. Another interesting animal that resides in the park is the timber rattlesnake, which is seldom seen. If you encounter one, please leave it alone they present little threat to the visitor. Birdwatchers flock to the park to see the treasured Acadian flycatcher and the Louisiana waterthrush.
History of the Area
More Info
Beaver Creek Valley State Park