Archaeology Day and Raptor Awareness

at Washington State Park

9/12/2026 | WASHINGTON STATE PARK | DE SOTO, Mo.

Washington State Park is once again celebrating Missouri Archaeology Month with a day of public archaeology activities. This year's Archaeology Day event will also include a live bird program.

This event is cosponsored by Missouri State Parks, the Three Rivers Chapter of the Missouri Archaeological Society and the World Bird Sanctuary. All activities are free and open to the public; there is no need to register.

Event schedule:

Archaeology activities and demonstrations – 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Shelter #2

Stop by Shelter #2 in the Big River Day-Use Area to check out a variety of interactive activities and demonstrations. View interesting archaeological artifacts and see demonstrations of flint knapping.

Raptor Awareness Program – 11 a.m. at Shelter #2

At 11 a.m., check out the World Bird Sanctuary program Raptor Awareness. Meet some amazing animal ambassadors and learn about topics surrounding raptors. See live birds up close and in flight! Please keep your pets away from Shelter #2 during this program, for the safety of both the birds and your pets.

Petroglyph tour – 2 p.m. at the petroglyph site Across From Shelter #1

Join park staff for a guided tour of the petroglyphs, the park's history carved in stone. Learn about the carvings, the culture and community that created them, and what they might mean. Enjoy a short stroll on a covered walkway with interpretive panels highlighting the cultural features.

Washington State Park Contact Information:

  • Address: 13041 State Highway 104, De Soto, Mo.
  • Phone number: 636-586-5768