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Prehistoric mounds are common from the plains of the Midwest to the Atlantic seaboard, but only in this general area were they constructed in an effigy outline of mammals, birds, or reptiles. The Monument contains 1,481 acres with 191 mounds of which 29 are effigies. The others are conical, linear and compound. Eastern Woodland Indians built these mounds from about 500 BC to 1300 AD. Natural features in the monument include forests, tallgrass prairies, wetlands and rivers. The Visitor Center, located at the park entrance, contains an information desk, museum exhibits highlighting archaeological and natural specimens, an auditorium and book sales outlet.
The park has eleven miles of hiking trails. No roads exist in the park. Rangers give guided hikes and prehistoric tool demonstrations, Memorial Day through Labor Day. Educational programs are presented on and off-site by appointment. There are no lodging or camping facilities in the park. Nearest camping is at Pikes Peak State Park and Yellow River State Forest in Iowa and Wyalusing State Park in Wisconsin. Various primitive campgrounds exist in the area as well.
Desginations
October 25, 1949 - National Monument
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