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Split Rock Creek State Park
State Park Information
State Park Overview
Nature of the Area
The park is located in the Coteau des Prairies ("highlands of the prairie") Landscape Region. Rock outcrops and shallow soil prevented much of the land within the park from being plowed. However, grazing by domestic livestock has diminished the native grasses and wildflowers. Late summer offers visitors a panorama of prairie colors among the wildflowers and grasses.
Three major ice movements during the ice age deposited a thick layer of sand, gravel, rocks and
clay called till, which are several hundred feet in some areas. Under the till lays a hard pink bedrock known as Sioux quartzite. This hard metamorphic rock was quarried in the area for use as a building material.
> MN DNR Home > Outdoor activities > State parks > Split Rock Creek >Park InfoImage of Split Rock Creek State ParkQuick stats
1,303 acres57,260 annual visitsNaturalist
Although Split Rock Creek does not have a full-time naturalist on staff, interpretive programs are offered at the park from Memorial Weekend through Labor Day. Check at the park for a schedule of activities or contact the naturalist at Blue Mounds State Park who also coordinates the programming at Split Rock Creek.Wildlife
Lake and prairie animals inhabit the park. Meadowlarks, beavers and
waterfowl can be seen along the lakeshore. The southern, wooded part of the park is home to woodpeckers, fox squirrels and
other woodland animals.History
A large dam was completed in 1938 by the Works Progress Administration (WPA). The dam was constructed of Sioux Quartzite - hard red rock that was quarried locally for use in the building of the dam and nearby highway bridge. The park was developed to provide water-based recreation for an area of the state that has few lakes.Geology
Three major ice movements during the ice age deposited a thick layer of sand, gravel, rocks and
clay called till, which are several hundred feet in some areas. Under the till lays a hard pink bedrock known as Sioux quartzite. This hard metamorphic rock was quarried in the area for use as a building material.Landscape
The park is located in the Coteau des Prairies ("highlands of the prairie") Landscape Region. Rock outcrops and shallow soil prevented much of the land within the park from being plowed. However, grazing by domestic livestock has diminished the native grasses and wildflowers. Late summer offers visitors a panorama of prairie colors among the wildflowers and grasses.
Lake and prairie animals inhabit the park. Meadowlarks, beavers and
waterfowl can be seen along the lakeshore. The southern, wooded part of the park is home to woodpeckers, fox squirrels and
other woodland animals.
History of the Area
More Info
Split Rock Creek State Park