Pony Creek Park, Protected area and historical site in Iowa, US
Pony Creek Park is a protected area centered around a lake in Mills County, Iowa. The property encompasses woodlands, prairie sections, and archaeological sites spread across the landscape.
The park contains two prehistoric earthen lodges built by Plains Indians, structures of major archaeological importance. The Davis Oriole Earthlodge Site received National Historic Landmark status in 2012.
Archaeological excavations in 2009 revealed pottery fragments and construction details of Native American dwellings that existed in this location.
The site offers boating, fishing, camping, and picnicking opportunities with plenty of ways to explore the natural surroundings. The setting works well for a day visit or a longer stay to experience the landscape.
The two earthen lodges here are the only structures of their kind that have been preserved on public land in this region. These rare structures make the park an exceptional place for anyone interested in Native American history.
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