The
battle fought here on August 10, 1861, was the first major Civil War engagement
west of the Mississippi River, involving about 5,400 Union troops and
12,000 Confederates. Although a Confederate victory, the Southerners failed
to capitalize on their success. The battle led to greater federal military
activity in Missouri, and set the stage for the Battle of Pea Ridge in
March 1862. Wilson's Creek was also the scene of the death of Nathaniel
Lyon, the first Union general to be killed in combat. With the exception
of the vegetation, the 1,750 acre battlefield has changed little from
its historic setting, enabling the visitor to experience the battlefield
in near pristine condition.
Operating Hours &
Seasons
Daily, except Christmas
and New Year's days. Visitor center hours are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Park
hours: Memorial Day through Labor Day, 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.; April 1
through October 31, 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.; November through March, 8:00
a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Communities
Surrounding Wilson's Creek National Battlefield
Note: The times listed below are approximate driving times to the park.
The
battle fought here on August 10, 1861, was the first major Civil War engagement
west of the Mississippi River, involving about 5,400 Union troops and
12,000 Confederates. Although a Confederate victory, the Southerners failed
to capitalize on their success. The battle led to greater federal military
activity in Missouri, and set the stage for the Battle of Pea Ridge in
March 1862. Wilson's Creek was also the scene of the death of Nathaniel
Lyon, the first Union general to be killed in combat. With the exception
of the vegetation, the 1,750 acre battlefield has changed little from
its historic setting, enabling the visitor to experience the battlefield
in near pristine condition.