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Missouri Streams and Aquatic Life

8/23/2025 | Washington State Park | De Soto, MO

Petroglyph tour – 2 p.m. at the petroglyph site

Washington State Park staff will offer a tour of the petroglyphs, the park's history carved in stone! Learn about these Mississippian-era carvings, the culture and community that created them, and possible interpretations. Enjoy a short stroll on a covered walkway with interpretive panels highlighting the cultural features.

Stream Team Macroinvertebrate Mayhem – 4 p.m. in the Big River Day-Use Area

Join park staff for a demonstration of how Missouri stream researchers monitor water quality. Use dragnets to catch aquatic macroinvertebrates in the Big River, and then sort and identify these fascinating creatures. Learn how macroinvertebrates serve as good indicators of stream quality, and find out how we can work together to keep Missouri streams clean!

Catfish of Missouri – 7 p.m. at the campground amphitheater

Join park staff for a presentation about Missouri catfish! Learn about the different species, where they live, what they eat, and how they behave. Plus, see photos of some impressively large catfish, and make a catfish windsock to take home with you!


This event is free and open to the public, and there is no need to register. For more information, call the park office at 636-586-5768.

Event time: 2 p.m. - 8 p.m.

Washington State Park is located at:

13041 State Highway 104, De Soto, MO | 636-586-5768

Associated activities

  • Interpretive Programs