Kaw Point Riverfront Park
Kaw Point Riverfront Park Map
About Kaw Point Riverfront Park in Kansas City
Kaw Point Park, positioned at the confluence of the Kansas (Kaw) and Missouri Rivers in Kansas City, Kansas, is an intersection of natural beauty, history, and recreation. This 10-acre park is notable for its wooded trails, native plant gardens, and significant historic value as a Lewis and Clark destination site. It offers a peaceful retreat amidst the urban landscape with a stunning view of downtown Kansas City, Missouri, while maintaining a natural setting with wildlife and wildflowers.
The site is historically remarkable, as the Lewis and Clark Expedition camped there from June 26-28, 1804. Visitors can explore interpretive signs, a memorial dedicated to regional Native American tribes, and a small amphitheater with limestone seating blocks engraved with the names of the Corps members. The Education Pavilion includes detailed information about the expedition's events and the area's cultural significance.
Kaw Point Park is also a hub for diverse recreational activities. It features shaded walking and biking trails, picnic areas, and a 500-seat outdoor amphitheater equipped for performances and events. The park connects to the Lewis and Clark Heritage Trail and has a large boat ramp for river access, making it a favorite for kayaking and fishing enthusiasts. Landscaping projects within the park, like the native plant gardens and woodland restoration areas, demonstrate sustainable practices, such as erosion control and stormwater management.
Its natural assets include rock gardens and a 25,000-square-foot woodland area filled with native trees and wildflowers. Wildlife like monarch butterflies and ruby-throated hummingbirds frequently visit the gardens, enhancing its ecological value. Volunteers and local organizations actively maintain the park, ensuring its preservation for future generations. Kaw Point Park is open from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily, offering a welcoming space for relaxing and learning about history in a serene environment.