Croton Civil War Memorial Park
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 5, 2025
Croton Civil War Memorial Park is located in the state of Missouri and is a must-visit for history buffs.
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Summary
The park commemorates a battle that took place during the Civil War in 1861. There are several reasons to visit the park, including its beautiful setting, historical significance, and the opportunity to see several monuments and markers.
One of the most significant points of interest is the monument commemorating the Battle of Croton, which took place on October 15, 1861. The battle was fought between Union troops under the command of Colonel James A. Mulligan and Confederate forces led by General Sterling Price. The monument features a bronze statue of Colonel Mulligan, who is depicted holding a sword and pointing towards the enemy.
Other notable attractions at the park include a cannon and several markers that provide information about the battle and the soldiers who fought in it. Visitors can also take a scenic walk around the park and explore the surrounding countryside.
Interesting facts about the park include the fact that it was established in 1870 and was one of the first Civil War memorials in Missouri. The park is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The best time of year to visit Croton Civil War Memorial Park is in the spring or fall when the weather is mild and the park is at its most scenic. Visitors should also be aware that the park is closed during the winter months.
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Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
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