Watkins Mill Association

06/01/2026

Did you know?

Missouri's Parks, Soils & Water Sales Tax began with a simple goal: protect the land and resources that make Missouri special.

In the early 1980s, Missouri faced one of the highest soil erosion rates in the nation. At the same time, Missouri state parks and historic sites were struggling with budget cuts and needed reliable funding to maintain trails, historic sites, campgrounds, and natural areas. In response, agricultural leaders joined forces with citizen groups interested in outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, fishing, and historic preservation to develop a solution.

In 1984, Missouri voters approved the one-tenth-of-one-percent Parks, Soils & Water Sales Tax as a constitutional amendment. The tax was designed to support both soil and water conservation efforts and Missouri's state parks and historic sites. Since then, voters have renewed their support every 10 years.

More than 40 years later, the tax continues to help conserve working lands, improve water quality, and keep Missouri's award-winning state parks and historic sites open and accessible for everyone.

On August 4, 2026, Missouri voters will once again have the opportunity to support this long-standing investment in our state's natural resources.

Learn more at preservemo.com

05/27/2026

Bring home a summer bouquet you made yourself! 💐

Join us for a hands-on Floral Design Workshop with Bea's Flowers & Gifts on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, from 6–7 PM at the Watkins Woolen Mill State Park and State Historic Site Visitor Center.

Led by local Kearney florist from Bea’s Flowers & Gifts, this beginner-friendly workshop will walk you through the basics of floral design while you create your own gorgeous arrangement of summer flowers to take home and enjoy.

Cost is $40 per person and includes all flowers and materials.
Please *BYOD (Bring your own favorite drink— with a lid, please!)

Spots are limited, so grab yours today!

🌻Register here: https://www.watkinsmill.org/events

05/27/2026

Missouri’s state parks, historic sites, conservation efforts, farms, and outdoor spaces don’t just happen by accident; they continue because Missourians continuously choose to support them.

The Parks, Soils, and Water Sales Tax has helped protect the places we hike, camp, swim, fish, learn, and make memories for generations. But continued support starts with conversation.

Talk to your friends, family, neighbors, and community members about why Missouri’s parks and conservation efforts matter. Share what these places mean to you. Ask questions. Stay informed. Encourage others to support the resources that support all of us.

The only way we continue to enjoy the benefits of our state parks, soil conservation, water protection, and Missouri’s natural beauty is by talking about them - and showing up for them.

05/26/2026

A big thank you to all of our volunteers and guests for making our Spring on the Farm event a success.
https://mostateparks.com/historic-site/watkins-woolen-mill-state-historic-site

05/26/2026

The Parks, Soils, and Water Sales Tax is a statewide one-tenth-of-one percent sales tax. But what does that actually mean?

For every $10 spent, just one penny helps support Missouri state parks, historic sites, soil conservation, clean water, and the preservation of Missouri farms and ranches.

A small tax with a massive impact. 🌲🥾⛺️

Please vote YES to protect the places, stories, and landscapes that make Missouri home.

The Parks, Soils and Water Sales Tax is a statewide one-tenth-of-one percent sales tax. But what does that actually mean? Here’s the breakdown 🥾🌲⛺️

05/26/2026

Yes, we do rent kayaks. Singles are $20 for two hours, $30 for all day. Tandems are $20 for two hours, $35 for all day. Kayaks can be rented from 10:00am - 4:00pm. All rentals need to be returned by 6:00pm. Payment is made at the campground; kayaks are picked up at the boat launch.
https://mostateparks.com/park/watkins-mill-state-park

05/25/2026

Today, we pause to remember and honor those heroes whose courage and commitment inspire us daily. We salute the brave individuals who gave everything for our freedom. We thank them for their service and thank their families who continue their legacy. We invited you visit a Missouri state park to connect with nature and reflect on their sacrifices.

05/23/2026

Sometimes the hardest part is getting started. You want to enjoy the outdoors on Memorial Day weekend in Kansas City. But where? We’re glad you asked. Here are three hikes that will help you get beyond BBQ and maximize your time outdoors.
https://www.kansascityhiker.com/hiking-kansas-city-blog/three-top-kansas-city-hikes-for-memorial-day-weekend

Watkins Woolen Mill State Park and State Historic Site
Visit Clay
Johnson County Park and Recreation District - JCPRD
Pleasant Hill Historic District
Farmers Market Pleasant Hill MO
Downtown Pleasant Hill, Missouri
Explore Merriam

05/23/2026

Missouri's state parks and historic sites will welcome numerous visitors during this holiday weekend. Our rangers ask that you use caution and be courteous as you're driving through the campgrounds or taking your boat out on the lake. Buckle up, slow down and designate a sober driver if alcohol is a part of your holiday plans. We want you to stay safe, yet have fun!

05/22/2026

Today, Governor Mike Kehoe signed the proclamation placing Amendment 1 on the August 4, 2026, ballot.

Amendment 1 continues the Parks, Soils, and Water Sales Tax for another 10 years — a one-tenth of one percent sales tax that funds Missouri state parks and historic sites along with soil and water conservation efforts.

This small investment has protected and improved Missouri’s natural resources for decades, and now voters will have the chance to keep that support going strong.

Vote YES on Amendment 1 on August 4, 2026, to continue supporting Missouri State Parks for future generations!

Learn more or donate today at preservemo.com.