8/30/2025 | Washington State Park | De Soto, MO
Mining Minerals Display Table – 2 p.m. at Thunderbird Lodge
View an interactive mining display featuring minerals that were commonly mined in the area. Hear about the historical mining of iron ore, copper ore, tiff and galena mined in and around the park, as well as some of the ways in which the mining industry has impacted local people, land and commerce.
Furnace Field Trip – 4 p.m. at the Thunderbird Lodge
Meet park staff at the Thunderbird Lodge for a tour of the nearby historic iron furnace. Take a short bus ride to the Murphy furnace site, just south of the main park property, and then walk about half a mile to view the furnace. See the incredible masonry that has withstood the test of time, and hear stories about the miners who lived in the boardinghouse that once stood here.
Campfire, S'mores and Mining Stories – 7 p.m. in front of the old showerhouse
Join park staff for a Labor Day treat while listening to stories of local miners. Learn about the mining history of the park and the surrounding community. Meet at the old showerhouse near the campground entrance.
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:
Associated activities
- Camping
- Interpretive Programs