Knob Noster State Park

The diverse landscape of the Knob Noster area has attracted people to the area for many years starting with the Indians 7,000 years ago.   In the 1930's the federal government created the Montserrat National Recreation Demonstration Area as an example of how land that have been cleared and mined could be re-designated as recreational property.  The state acquired the land in 1946 and renamed it the Knob Noster State Park.  Its 3,549 acres offer thick forests, clear lakes, and  grasslands which make it a haven for camping, hiking, fishing and nature studies.  The park's visitors center traces the history of the park and outlines its special features. 

The Park has 33 basic and 40 improved campsites available year round.  There are modern restrooms, hot showers, laundry facilities and a dumping station.  There is a small daily camping fee which is discounted from November through March.   There are also two group camps for use by youth groups and non-profit organizations.  Camp Shawnee has accommodations for 150 campers and Camp Bobwhite has accommodations for 167.  These areas have cabins, a dining lodge with kitchen, restrooms and showers, and a swimming pool.

A favorite past time in the State Park is fishing in the many lakes.  Clearfork Lake as well as many of the smaller lakes offer abundant opportunities to catch channel fish, bluegill, and bass.   There are 75 picnic sites scattered throughout the park and three picnic shelters with playground equipment nearby are also available. 

Hiking through the beautiful scenery is also a favorite of many locals.  The Boy Scouts even maintain their own compass trail through the park. Others are welcome to use this trail and can contact the Park Office for a map.    There is also a special seven mile trail for bicyclists and equestrians.  Many smaller hiking trails wind through the park and grasslands.