Reviews

PlainOlBill

This was such a treat! Came into KC on our 43rd anniversary and the wife and I were visiting friends in Kearney who used to live with us in Chicago. Decided to go out and have lunch and stop by and see some site that we have not seen. Wife found Watkins woolen Mill and said let's go there. I thought I was going to be bored out of my mind but went along. My friend Jerry pretty much looked the same way but we paid $5 per person for four people to go through this Mill and I just kind of rolled my eyes at the start. Why was I wrong! The machinery is original, the story behind this Mill is incredible. Mr Watkins was a very very very busy man! The process was stunning and this is a must-see if you are in the area. Heck, it's a must-see even if you're not in the area. You won't regret this visit. Do not go in with preconceived ideas cuz you will thoroughly enjoy this tour.

Tony Mallos

Don’t sleep, actually please do sleep on this park. Clean bathrooms and well kept walking trails. Lots of history to explore. It’s honestly my favorite campground.

Todd Miller

Great fishing. Nice place to camp, and if you have a little fishing buggy to get on the lake, then do it. But if not, the fish are off the shore, too. That's where I caught these.

K W

We love this place!!! Awesome spot in a perfect location - close to a nice town with lots of great stuff, including a Natural Grocers! The campsite hosts are very nice and super accommodating!!! We are very happy with our overall experience and can’t wait to come back!!!

Rhonda Steines

Such a wonderful piece of history! Stories like that of the Watkins are kept alive by this state park. It makes one understand how an industry began and the work it took to operate. The 11 children were very involved in running the mill. It's great that this place has been renovated and preserved to tell the story of their lives. I can just about image how busy and thriving the place was back then. The museum has many details and a miniature replica of the mill itself, which was incredible to see. We were impressed!

FFKDTP1

Nice park with a paved hiking trail around the lake. The mill is cool and the place is clean, no issues with parking. Recommend if in the area.

Max

Watkins Woolen Mill State Park offers a great walking trail / bike trail that loops around the man made lake. The area is very dog friendly and also offers plenty of fishing opportunities.

Linda Griego

I toured the Mill and the Watkins home. The drive from KC was beautiful. It was easy to find. Great signage. Lots of activities like hiking and swimming along the way. The museum was so well kept. The tour guides were super nice young men that did such a good job recounting the history and significance of preservation. I really loved getting up close and personal with authentic Americana. And I loved snooping thru the lives and history of a family. There was some walking and stairs involved for those with limited mobility. Tours start on the hour. Highly recommend a guided tour so you get to go in and poke around. The tours lasted around 45 minutes for each the house and the mill. Super impressed with the state of Missouri for preserving these sites and making them available to the public.

T Schetselaar

Watkins Woolen Mill State Park, located in Lawson, Missouri, offers visitors a blend of history and outdoor recreation, with its beach being a notable highlight. The beach area provides a serene and family-friendly environment, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and enjoyment. The beach is situated along Williams Creek Lake, a 100-acre body of water that is ideal for swimming, fishing, and boating. The sandy shore is well-maintained and clean, providing a comfortable place to lay out towels and enjoy the sun. The shallow waters near the shore are safe for children, while deeper areas allow for more adventurous swimming. Amenities at the beach include picnic tables and nearby restrooms, enhancing the convenience for families and groups. The presence of shaded areas and nearby trails means that visitors can easily transition from sunbathing to hiking or picnicking. One of the unique aspects of Watkins Woolen Mill State Park is its historical context. After spending time at the beach, visitors can explore the preserved 19th-century woolen mill and the Watkins family home, both of which are part of a National Historic Landmark District. This combination of recreational and educational opportunities makes the park a multifaceted destination. Overall, the beach at Watkins Woolen Mill State Park is a charming spot that offers a peaceful retreat with the added bonus of historical exploration. Whether you're looking to swim, relax by the water, or delve into Missouri's history, this park provides a well-rounded and enjoyable experience.