Kearney, Missouri is located in Clay County about 15 minutes north of Kansas City and has a population of 8,381. Each September, the city hosts an annual festival celebrating its distinction as the birthplace of outlaw Jesse James. The James farm with the original house and Jesse James’s burial site are a popular tourist attraction. The Kearney School District serves about 3,500 families in Kearney and northern Clay County.
This park offers a 100 acre lake with a paved walking/bicycle path all the way around it. It offers fishing, swimming, and awesome camping spots to enjoy the outdoors. Watkins Mill State Park is family friendly and pets are welcome.The park is adjacent to the Watkins Woolen Mill State Historic Site, a national historic landmark. It also offers a 4 mile horse riding trail for those with horses. Come enjoy nature but still be close to amenities if desired.