Wildcat Access

Wildcat Access, located in Joplin near South Main and 55th Street, provides a convenient boat ramp and parking lot for launching onto Shoal Creek. This access point is operated through a partnership between the City of Joplin and the Missouri Department of Conservation. The site offers picnic facilities, fishing access, and a nature center, making it suitable for a full day of recreation.

Shoal Creek is a large, flowing stream (classified as a 6th-order river) with an average flow of about 738 cubic feet per second and a gentle gradient of 1.5 feet per mile. The creek's moderate current and steady flow make it suitable for boating and paddling, though water conditions can vary seasonally. With its 81-mile length and drainage area spanning 903 square miles, Shoal Creek offers multiple access points downstream, including Smack-Out, Cherry Corner, Allen Bridge, Limekiln, Tipton Ford, and Wildcat Glade—providing excellent opportunities for multi-day trips or exploring different sections of the creek.

For current information about hours, amenities, and conditions, contact the City of Joplin Parks Department at 417-625-4750 or parks@joplinmo.org.