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Disabled-Accessible Outdoors
DISABLED-ACCESSIBLE OUTDOORS
BOONE
Eagle Bluffs Conservation Area 6700 W. Route K, Columbia, MO 65203; 573-445-3882; Fax: 573-446-8672
This 4,269-acre area is six miles southwest of Columbia near McBaine ?Create This Page. Named for the frequent sightings of migratory bald eagles, the area is a wetland habitat for migrating and wintering birds; permanent, resident wildlife, and is popular waterfowl hunting area.
Henry Jackson Waters and C.B. Moss Memorial Wildlife Area; for information contact: Department of Conservation; 1907 Hillcrest Drive, Columbia, MO 65201; 573-884-6861, Fax: 573-882-9807
This 102-acre area located within Columbia's city limits offers old fields and a young hardwood forest, as well as a public contact office. Natural features include 75-foot limestone bluffs along Grindstone Creek, which flows a quarter of a mile through the area. Firearms hunting is prohibited.
Resource Science Center; for information, contact: Department of Conservation; 1110 S. College Ave., Columbia, MO 65201; 573-882-9880; Fax:573-882-4517
The Resource Science Center houses biologists who are responsible for providing the science-based information needed by the public and MDC to conserve, appreciate and effectively manage the living resources of Missouri. The center also provides a variety of free brochures, along with publications and permits available for purchase.
Rocky Fork Lakes Conservation Area; for information contact: Eagle Bluffs Conservation Area; 6700 W. Route K, Columbia, MO 65203; 573-445-3882; Fax: 573-446-8672.
This 2,199-acre area was strip-mined by Peabody Coal Co. prior to it's purchase by MDC in 1979. The strip pits provide more than 75 lakes and ponds, which furnish, approximately, 130-acres of flat water for fishing and sailboating. Area facilities include a boat ramp, two privies, a four-site camping area and a firearms shooting range.
CALLAWAY
Little Dixie Lake Conservation Area; 1821 State Road RA , Fulton, MO 65251; 573-592-4080.
West of Kingdom City, this 733-acre area has a 200-acre lake, as well as several fishless ponds constructed for woodland wildlife. It also serves as a research area for MDC, as well as for graduate students from the University of Missouri-Columbia.
Whetstone Creek Conservation Area; for information contact: Department of Conservation; 3215 County Road 1003, Williamsburg, MO 63388; 573-254-3330 or 573-882-9880
This 5,147-acre area, located in northwestern Callaway County, is named for the steam that bisects the area from east to west. It is managed to promote and enhance Missouri's native and migratory wildlife. .
CAMDEN
Brown Bend Access; for information contact: Department of Conservation; 783 Thunder Mountain Road, Camden, MO 65020; 573-346-2210; Fax: 573-346-7420
The boat ramps and fishing jetties provide access to the Lake of the Ozarks.
Camdenton Conservation Service Center; for information contact: Department of Conservation; 783 Thunder Mountain Road, Camdenton, MO 65020; 573-346-2210; Fax: 573-346-7420
This 40-acre office serves Camden, Miller and Morgan counties.
Larry R. Gale Access; for information, contact: Department of Conservation; 783 Thunder Mountain Road, Camdenton, MO 65020; 573-346-2210; Fax: 573-346-7420
This area is mostly forest, with some old fields and glades. It, also, provides access to the Niangua Arm of Lake of the Ozarks.
Shawnee Bend Access; for information, contact: Dept. of Conservation, 783 Thunder Mountain Road, Camdenton, MO 65020; 573-346-2210; Fax: 573-346-7420
Shawnee Bend Access, a very popular fishing area, is located at the Lake of the Ozarks.
Binder Community Lake; for information, contact: Dept. of Conservation, 1907 Hillcrest Drive, Columbia, MO 65201; 573-884-6861; Fax: 573-882-9807
Within a few minutes drive of downtown Jefferson City, this 155-acre lake is one of the most poular fishing areas for city residents and visitors.
Runge Conservation Nature Center; for information, contact: Dept. of Conservation, 330 Commerce Drive, Jefferson City, MO 65109; 573-526-5544; Fax: 573-526-4496
The center, which occupies 97 acres in the heart of central Missouri, offers modern exhibits on nature and the environment and is a great place to reconnect with nature.
Scrivner Road Conservation Area; for information, contact: Dept. of Conservation, 410 W. Buchanan, California, MO 65018; 573-796-0286
This area is, mostly, old fields with forest and cropland. It, also, has a popular shooting range.
COOPER
Prairie Home Conservation Area; for information, contact: Dept. of Conservation; 1907 Hillcrest Drive, Columbia, MO 65203; 573-884-6861 or 660-530-5500; Fax: 573-882-9807
This 1,461-acre area is approximately four miles southwest of Prairie Home. It is a beautiful, rugged area wih fields, woods numerous streams and five fishing ponds (total 27 acres)
Diana Bend Conservation Area; for information, contact: Dept. of Conservation, 1907 Hillcrest Drive, Columbia, MO 65201; 573-884-6861; Fax: 573-882-9807
This 1,342 acre area is bounded on the south by the Missouri River, on the east by Moniteau Creek, on the north by the Missouri-Kansas-Texas (MKT) Trail and on the west by a levee. Access by KATY Trail.
Rudolf Bennitt Conservation Area; for information, contact: Dept. of Conservation; 1907 Hillcrest Drive, Columbia, MO 65201; 573-884-6861; Fax: 573-882-9807
Rudolph Bennitt Conservation Area comprises 3,515 acres, including a 52 acre lake, at the junction of Boone, Howard and Randolph counties.
MARIES
Rinquelin Trail Lake Conservation Area; for information, contact: Department of Conservation; 1315 E. Main, Linn, MO 65051; 573-897-3797; Fax:573-897-4107
The 286 acres comprising this area, which features a 29 acre lake, were aquired by MDC through five separate transactions between 1982 and 1990.
MONITEAU
Manito Lake Conservation Area; for information, contact: Dept. of Conservation; 1907 Hillcrest Drive, Columbia, MO 65202; 573-884-6861 or 660-530-5500; Fax: 573-882-9807
This area, located five miles south of Tipton on Highway 5, contains grassland, cropland, old fields, forest, prairie and the,77 acre, Manito Lake.
MORGAN
Coffman Beach Access; for information, contact: Department of Conservation; 783 Thunder Mountain Road, Camdenton, MO 65020; 573-346-2210; Fax: 573-346-7420
This 8 acre tract, also, provides access to the Lake of the Ozarks.
Gravois Mills Access; for information, contact: Department of Conservation; 783 Thunder Mountain Road, Camdenton, MO 65020; 573-346-2210; Fax: 573-346-7420 Located in Morgan County, this access is a 63 acre, heavily forested area which, also, offers access to the Lake of the Ozarks.
OSAGE
Ben Branch Lake Conservation Area; for information, contact: Department of Conservation; 1315 E. Main; Linn, MO 65051; 573-897-3797; Fax: 573-897-4107
This 514 acre area features a beautiful 44 acre lake.
SALINE
Blind Pony Lake Conservation Area; for information, contact: Department of Conservation; RR2, P.O. 17, Sweet Springs, MO 65351; 660-335-4531; Fax: 660-335-4267
This area contains old fields, cropland, forest and some prairie, along with the 195 acre Blind Pony Lake.
KANSAS CITY REGION
BATES
August A. Busch Jr. Memorial Wetlands at Four Rivers Conservation Area; for information, contact: Department of Conservation, Route 3, P.O. Box 223, Rich Hill, MO 64779; 417-395-2341 or 417-876-5226
This 13,732 acre area is open bottomland with some large tracts of timber. It has more than 21 miles of stream frontage. The area is managed for wetland species, with a variety of moist soil management techniques and agricultural crops.
Harmony Mission Lake Conservation Area; for information contact: Department of Conservation; Route 3, P.O. Box 223, Rich Hill, MO 64779; 417-395-2342 or 417-876-5226
With the exception of 93 wooded acres and a 96 acre lake, most of this 1,080 acre conservation area is in cropland, grassland and oil fields.
Settles' Ford Conservation Area; for information, contact: Settles' Ford Conservation Area; 37111 E. 361 Street, Garden City, MO 64747; 816-862-6488, 660-693-4666 or 816-665-6250
This area is located on both sides of the South Grand River in southeast Cass and northeast Bates counties. The 6,578 acre area not only provides a wealth of habitat for many plants and animals, but many recreational opportunities, as well.
BENTON
Lost Valley Fish Hatchery; for information, contact: Lost Valley Fish Hatchery; RR 5, Box 30 A, Warsaw, MO 65355; 660-438-4465
This hatchery is the largest state-owned, warm-water hatchery in Missouri and one of the largest in the nation. The hatchery rears a variety of fish species, which are used to stock public and private waters throughout Missouri. The visitor center is open year 'round and admission is free.
CASS
Amarugia Highlands Conservation Area; for information, contact: Department of Conservation; James A. Reed Memorial Wildlife Area; 13101 S.E. Ranson Road, Lee's Summit, MO 64802; 816-662-0900
A highlight of this 1,041 acre area is the 55 acre Amarugia Lake.
CEDAR
El Dorado Springs Office; for information ; contact: Department of Conservation, P.O. Box 106, 1109 S. Main, El Dorado Springs, MO 64744; 417-876-5226; Fax: 417-876-3386
There are several conservation areas within 30 to 45 minutes of the El Dorado Springs office. Both the Wah-Kon-Tah Prairie and Taberville Prairie Conservation areas are north of El Dorado Springs. The Four Rivers and Schell-Osage Conservation areas are an easy drive to the northwest. See the prairie blooming in the spring and summer, and watch the waterfowl in fall and winter.
CLAY
Cooley Lake Conservation Area; for information, contact: Department of Conservation; 1 Victory Drive, Suite 100, Liberty, MO 64068; 816-792-8662; Fax: 816-792-8652
This 1,348 acre area includes wetlands, croplands, forest and 335 acre Cooley Lake. An Oxbow lake of the Missouri River.
Rush Creek Conservation Area; for information, contact: Department of Conservation; 4750 Troost, Kansas City, MO 64133; 816-759-7305; Fax: 816-759-7333
Nature study is the primary activity at Rush Creek Conservation Area. All plants and wildlife are protected in this refuge.
HENRY
Clinton Office; for information, contact: Department of Conservation; 2010 S. Second St., Clinton, MO 64735; 660-885-6981
The Clinton office site is part of the Truman Management Lands and is headquarters for staff from several MDC divisions. The office site, also, has a small meeting room.
Truman Reservoir Management Lands (Grand River Bottoms); for information contact: Department of Conservation; P.O. Box 368, Clinton, MO 64735; 660-885-6981
Harry S. Truman Reservoir management lands consist of 54,000 acres distributed around the reservoir in parts of Henry, Benton, Hickory, and St. Clair counties in west central Missouri. The reservoir lies within the upper Osage River basin where the Ozarks meet the plains.
JACKSON
The Anita B. Gorman Conservation Discovery Center; for information, contact: Department of Conservation; 4750 Troost Ave., Kansas City, MO 64110; 816-759-7300; Fax: 816-759-7333
The Discovery Center is a hands-on, urban, conservation education center located on eight acres in the heart of Kansas City.
Burr Oak Woods Conservation Area; for information, contact: Department of Conservation; 1401 N.W. Park Road, Blue Springs, MO 64015 816-228-3766
This area, 20 miles east of downtown Kansas City, is one of MDC's efforts to bring the great outdoors to the city. Comprising 1,071 acres of woodlands, fields and ponds, the area, also, features a scenic portion of Burr Oak Creek.
James A. Reed Memorial Wildlife Area; for information, contact: 13101 S.E. Ranson Road, Lee's Summit, MO 64082; 816-622-0900
The James A Reed Memorial Wildlife Area is south of Highway 50, near Lee's Summit. This area contains forest, old fields, grasslands, wetlands and prairie. Facilities/features include: boat rental, primitive camping, picinic areas, three pavilions, numerous fishing jetties, two fishing docks, an archery range and 11 fishable lakes and ponds. (252 acres total)
Lake City Range and Outdoor Education Center; for information, contact: 28900 E. Argo Road, Grain Valley, MO 64029; 816-229-4448
The Lake City Range and Outdoor Education Center is a staffed shooting range where visitors can shoot, both, stationary and moving targets. The center offers a variety of free training programs and classes throughout the year.
JOHNSON
Hazel Hill Lake; for information, contact: Department of Conservation; 2000 S. Limit Ave., Sedalia, MO 65301; 660-530-5500
In addition to 72-acre Hazel Hill Lake, the area comprises old fields, cropland, grasslands and forest.
J.N. Turkey Kearn Wildlife Area; for information, contact: Department of Conservation; 1267 S.E. 650, Green Ridge, MO 65332; 660-647-3520 or 660- 530-5500
In addition to three fishable ponds, totaling 36 acres, the area contains old fields , cropland and forest.
LAYFAYETTE
Maple Leaf Lake Conservation Area; for information, contact: Department of Conservation; 81401 N.W. Park Road, Blue Springs, MO 64015; 816-228-3766
In addition to 140 acre Maple Leaf Lake, the area comprises old fields and cropland, along with some forest, grassland and wetlands.
PETTIS
Sedalia Conservation Service Center; for information, contact: Department of Conservation; 2000 S. Limit Ave., Sedalia, MO 65301; 660-530-5500; Fax: 660-530-5504
This center offers a gift shop, assistance with conservation issues, education consultation, free publications, as well as landowner permits and hunting, trapping and fishing licenses.
PLATTE
Guy B. Park Conservation Area; for information, contact: Department of Conservation; 1 Victory Drive, Suite 100, Liberty, MO 64068; 816-792-8662; Fax: 816-792-8652
The area contains forest, grassland, cropland and the 17 acre Tobacco Hills Lake.
Little Bean Marsh Conservation Area; for information, contact: Department of Conservation, 1 Victory Drive, Suite 100, Liberty, MO 64068; 816-792-8662; Fax: 816-792-8652
This area, which features forest and wetlands, hosts migrating white pelicans at certain times of the year.
Parma Woods Range and Outdoor Education Center; for information, contact: Department of Conservation; P.O. Box 14024, Parkville, MO 64152 816-891-9941
The newly built facility, on 188 acres of scenic bluff land above the Missouri River, offers a variety of free training programs and courses throughout the year.
Platte Falls Conservation Area; for information, contact: Platte Falls Conservation Area; 16800 Settles Station Road, Platte City, MO 64079; 816-858-5718 or 816-792-8662
This area is a 2,366 acre tract with fields, woods, lakes, and a natural access to the Platte River. There is an archery range and an area designated for clay-bird target shooting.
ST. CLAIR
Schell-Osage Conservation Area; for informaion, contact: Department of Conservation; P.O. Box 123, Schell City, MO 64783; 417-876-5226
This diverse area contains fishable lakes and ponds totaling, approximately, 900 acres. The tract contains, both, upland and wetland habitats, including, approximately 42 acres of native prairie. Facilities include primitive camping, two boat ramps and waterfowl hunting blinds. Visitors, also, may observe one of the original bald-eagle hacking towers on this area.
NORTHEAST REGION
ADAIR
Northeast Regional Office; for information, contact; Department of Conservation; 3600 S. Baltimore, Kirksville, MO 63501; 660-785-2420; Fax: 660-785-2553
This office houses staff from Fisheries, Wildlife, Forestry, Private Land Services, Protection, Outreach and Education, and Resource Science who are availabe to assist the public in our 15-county region. You may call this office to find information regarding department programs and area brochures for a variety of MDC properties in the northeast region. Facilities at this new office are ADA accessible and will include a 1,500-foot exhibit area with an aquarium, and displays
Sugar Creek Conservation Area; for information, contact; Department of Conservation, 2500 S. Haliburton, Kirksville, MO 63501; 660-785-2420
During your visit to this area, you may see various forest improvement and wildlife management practices.
KNOX
Henry Sever Lake Conservation Area; for information, contact: Department of Conservation; 2500 S. Haliburton, Kirksville, MO 63501; 660-785-2420
This area contains old fields, forest, cropland and prairie, along with the 158 acre Sever Lake.
MACON
Thomas Hill Reservoir Conservation Area; for information, contact: Department of Conservation; 2500 S. Haliburton, Kirksville, MO 63501; 660-785-2420
This area features 4,900 acre Thomas Hill Lake within its 11,000 acres. Management of the area includes farming, timber harvest and controlled burns to improve wildlife habitat and increase species diversity.
PIKE
Ted Shanks Conservation Area; for information, contact: Department of Conservation; 653 Clinic Road, Hannibal, MO 63401; 573-248-2530
This 6,705 acre area consists of 3,827 acres of MDC lands managed under a cooperative agreement among the Conservation Department, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. There is motorboat access to the 71 acre Horseshoe Lake and the Salt River.
SHELBY
Hunnewell Lake Conservation Area; for information, contact: Department of Conservation; 6503 Highway Z, Hunnewell, MO 63433; 573-983-2201
This 2,00 acre area features a 230 acre lake, which supplies water for the area's warm water hatchery ponds.
NORTHWEST REGION
ANDREW
Happy Holler Lake Conservation Area; for information, contact: Department of Conservation, 701 James McCarthy Drive, St. Joseph, MO 64507-2298; 816-271-3100; Fax: 816-271-3107
This 2,207 acre area features both upland and bottomland habitat for wildlife and a 62 acre lake. The area is managed for multiple game and non-game species and for a variety of public uses.
Nodaway Valley Conservation Area; for information, contact: Department of Conservation; 701 James McCarthy Drive, St. Joseph, MO 64507-2298; 816-271-3100; Fax:816-271-3107
This 3,752 acre area is managed primarily to provide wetland habitat for a variety of game and non-game wildlife. Some facilities also are located in Holt County.
BUCHANAN
Belcher Branch Lake Conservation Area; for information, contact: Department of Conservation; 701 James McCarthy Drive, St. Joseph, MO 64507-2298 816-271-3100; Fax: 816-271-3107
This 405 acre area features a 55 acre fishing lake. MDC manages the fish, forest and wildlife resourses of this area to provide for public recreation and to protect soil and water.
Bluffwoods Conservation Area; for information, contact: Dept. of Conservation; 701 James McCarthy Dr., St. Joseph, MO 64507-2298; 816-271-3100; Fax: 816-271-3107
This heavily forested 2,344 acre area is situated along the beautiful Missouri River bluffs. The Forest Nature Trail system has two areas that are accessible: Prairie Trail is 0.2 miles and Meadow Trail is 0.3 miles.
French Bottom Accesss (St. Joseph); for information, contact: Department of Conservation, 701 James McCarthy Drive, St. Joseph, MO 64507-2298
This area offers access to the Missouri River.
Jentell Brees Access; for information, contact: Department of Conservation, 701 James McCarthy Drive, St. Joseph, MO 64507-2298; 816-271-3100; Fax: 816-271-3107
This area offers access to the Missouri River.
Mark Youngdahl Urban Conservation Area; for information contact: Dept. of Conservation; 701 James McCarthy Drive, St. Joseph, MO 64507-2298; 816-271-3100; Fax: 816-271-3107
This 85 acre area is nestled in the heart of St. Joseph. Aquired by MDC in 1983, it has been developed to demonstrate urban conservation, while providing a place for high-quality outdoor recreation.
Northwest Regional Office; for information, contact: Dept. of Conservation; 701 James McCarthy Drive, St. Joseph, MO 64507-2298; 816-271-3100; Fax: 816-271-3107
Located on Missouri Western State University Campus in St. Joseph. MDC has a CAP agreement with the university to provide fishing opportunities in the one-acre lake on campus.
Pidgeon Hill Conservation Area; for information, contact: Dept. of Conservation; 701 James McCarthy Drive, St. Joseph, MO 6507-2298; 816-271-3100; Fax: 816-271-3107
This 424-acre area is located in Buchanan County, just south of St. Joseph. Approximately 250 acres of the land consists of upland hardwood forest; the remainder is old-field habitat or cropland. Visitors often practice target shooting on the area.
CHARITON
Brunswick Access; for information, contact: Dept. of Conservation; 15368 LIV 2386, Chillicothe, MO 64601; 660-646-6122; Fax: 660-646-1354
This 3-acre area provides access to the Grand River.
Dalton Bottoms Access; for information, contact; Dept. of Conservation, 15368 LIV 2386, Chillicothe, MO 64601; 660-646-6122; Fax: 660-646-1354
This area provides access to the Chariton and Missouri rivers.
CLINTON
Ronald and Maude Hartell Conservation Area; for information, contact: Dept. of Conservation, 701 James McCarthy Drive, St. Joseph, MO 64507-2298; 816-271-3100; Fax: 816-271-3107
This area contains forest, grassland and 18 acres of small, fishable lakes and ponds.
DeKALB ?Create This Page
Pony Express Lake Conservation Area; for information, contact: Dept. of Conservation, 701 James McCarthy Drive, St. Joseph, MO 64507-2298; 816-271-3100; Fax: 816-271-3107
This 3,190 acre area is located in south-central DeKalb ?Create This Page County. In addition to providing public fishing and wildlife based recreational opportunities, the area demonstrates the balanced relationship that can exist between agricultural operations and wildlife populations. Pony Express Lake, Buffalo Bill Lake and Outpost Lake provide, nearly, 300 acres of fishable water.
GENTRY
Elam Bend Conservation Area; for information, contact: Dept. of Conservation; 701 James McCarthy Drive, St. Joseph, MO 64507-2298; 816-271-3100; Fax: 816-271-3107
In addition to providing river access and river-oriented recreation on an unchannelized portion of the upper Grand River, this 1,483 acre area is managed for both game and non-game species of upland and forest wildlife.
HOLT
Bob Brown Conservation Area; for information, contact: Dept. of Conservation, 701 James McCarthy Drive, St. Joseph, MO 64507-2298; 816-271-3100; Fax: 816-271-3107
Named after a St. Joseph conservationist, this 3,302 acre area of bottomland along the Missouri River contains wetlands, timber and a variety of waterfowl. It is managed, primarily, to provide wetland habitat, and, at certain times of the year, it attracts bald eagles, shorebirds and migratory waterfowl.
Riverbreaks Conservation Area; for information, contact: Department of Conservation; 701 James McCarthy Drive, St. Joseph, MO 64507-2298; 816-271-3100; Fax: 816-271-3107
This 2,306 acre area is more than half forest. The remainder is grassland, old fields, cropland and prairie.
LINN
Fountain Grove Conservation Area; for information, contact: Dept. of Conservation, 15368 LIV 2386,Chillicothe, MO 64601; 660-646-6122; Fax: 660-646-1354
The first wetland area developed by MDC, Fountain Grove has grown from 3,433 acres in the 1940's to 7,154 acres. The area is managed to provide diverse wetland habitats including marshes, bottomland forests, grain fields, oxbows, lakes and sloughs. Three lakes are located on this area: 160-acre Che-Ru, 14-acre Goose and 31-acre Jo Shelby.
LIVINGSTON
Poosey Conservation Area; for information, contact: Dept. of Conservation, 15368 LIV 2386, Chillicothe, MO 64601; 660-646-6122; Fax: 660-646-1354
This 5,591- acre area is located in northwest Livingston County. The rugged landscape, which reminded early settlers of the Poosey region in Kentucky, gave rise to the area's name. The fishing dock, with fish cleaning station, is situated on the 192-acre Indian Creek Community Lake on the southern portion of the area.
MERCER
Lake Paho Conservation Area; for information, contact: Dept. of Conservation, 701 James McCarthy Drive, St. Joseph, MO 64507-2298; 816-271-3100; Fax: 816-271-3107
This 2,131 acre area is home to the first lake built by MDC-273 acre Lake Paho-in the late 1940's. Named from the indian word, 'paho', which means "first" or "number one" , the lake provides water to a hatchery that roduces channel catfish for public fishing lakes throughout the northern half of the state.
NODAWAY
Bilby Ranch Lake Conservation Area; for information, contact: Dept. of Conservation, 701 James McCarthy Drive, St. Joseph, MO 64501-2298; 816-271-3100; Fax: 816-3107
This 5,030 acre area features a 110 acre lake for recreational activities.
Nodaway County Community Lake; for information, contact: Dept. of Conservation, 701 James McCarthy Drive, St. Joseph, MO 64507-2298; 816-271-3100; Fax: 816-271-3107
This 320 acre area features a 73 acre lake. Most of the land around the lake is pasture and old fields, although, food plots and a variety of warm-season grasses have been established here.
RAY
Ray County Community Lake; for information, contact: Dept. of Conservation, 701 James McCarthy Drive, St. Joseph, MO 64507; 816-271-3100
This area, mostly grassland, contains the 25 acre Ray County Lake.
OZARK REGION
CARTER
Peck Ranch Conservation Area; for information, contact: Peck Ranch Conservation Area, Route 1, Box 1395, Winnona, MO 65588; 573-323-4249
MDC purchased this 23,048 acre area of rugged, forested hills and hollows in 1945 for wild turkey management. Diverse management techniques, including prescribed fire and forest-harvesting methods, are being used to restore and maintain the many natural communities on the area.
DENT
Montauk Fish Hatchery; for information, contact: Dept. of Conservation, Route 5, Box 280, Salem, MO 65560; 573-548-2585; Fax: 573-548-2413
Montauk Fish Hatchery is located in Montauk State Park, where fishing jetties on Montauk Lake and the Currant River provide wonderful opportunities for trout fishing. The area, also, hosts exhibits and interpretive programs. The park, owned and managed by Missouri Department of Natural Resources, has a variety of camping, pinicking and other public-use facilities. For more information, call the DNR office at 573-548-2201.
Shawnee Mac Lakes Conservation Area; for information, contact: Dept. of Conservation, P.O. Box 386, Salem, MO 65560; 573-729-7745; Fax: 573-729-7745
This 250 acre area features two beautiful lakes (50 acres) that provide fishing opportunities from either the shoreline or the jetties.
HOWELL
Archie and Gracie Vanderhoef Memorial State Forest; for information, contact: Ozark Regional Office; 551 Joe Jones Blvd., West Plains, MO; 417-256-7161; Fax: 417-256-0429
This heavily forested, 140 acre area is a good place to enjoy a picnic.
Ozark Regional Office; for information, contact: Dept. of Conservation, P.O. Box 138, 551 Joe Jones Blvd., West Plains, MO 65775; 417-256-7161; Fax: 417-256-0429
This office houses staff from Fisheries, Forestry, Wildlife, Private Land Services, Protection, Outreach and Education, and Resource Science who serve a 12 county area. They are available to dispense information about land management, fishing and hunting opportunities, wildlife management and other services regarding Missouri's resources. Information and area brochures for conservation areas within the Ozark Region are, also, available here. Features at the site include a small herp pond and native planting areas. A portion of the Whipporwill Trail is ADA accessible.
White Ranch Conservation Area; for information, contact: Ozark Regional Office, 551 Joe Jones Blvd., West Plains, MO 65775; 417-256-7161 Fax: 417-256-0429
MDC manages this 6,500 acre area of beautiful forest to improve tree growth, quality and species composition.
OZARK
Caney Mountain Conservation Area; for information, contact: Ozark Regional Office; 551 Joe Jones Blvd., West Plains, MO 65775; 417-256-7161; Fax: 417-256-0429
This 7,919 acre area is, primarily, managed to promote widlife habitat and natural plant communities. The area is characterized by unusual geology, including the roughest parts of a precipitous range of hills . The hills are a remnant of an old, elevated plateau that has been dissected by numerous feeder streams.
PHELPS
Little Prairie Conservation Area; for information, contact: Ozark Regional Office, 551 Joe Jones Blvd., West Plains, MO 65775; 417-256-7161; Fax: 417-256-0429
This area contains forest, old fields and the 100 acre Towell Lake.
Maramec Spring Fish Hatchery; for information, contact: 21880 Maramec Spring Drive, St. James, MO 65559; or call The James Foundation's Office at: 573-265-7124
MDC rears trout and stocks them in Maramec Spring, the fifth largest spring in the state. The hatchery is located within Maramec Spring Park, which is owned and managed by The James Foundation. The park has a variety of camping, picnicking and other public- use facilities.
RIPLEY
Little Black Conservation Area; for more information, contact: Ozark Regional Office; 551 Joe Jones Blvd., West Plains, MO 65775; 417-256-7161 Fax: 417-256-0429
This 2,397 acre area is, predominantly, forested and features an archery range.
TEXAS
Austin Community Lake; for information, contact: Ozark Regional Office; 551 Joe Jones Blvd., West Plains, MO 65775; 417-256-7161; Fax: 417-256-0429
This scenic 20 acre lake, located within a 55 acre area, invites visitors to picnic and fish.
George O. White State Forest Nursery; for information, contact: 14027 Shafer Road, Licking, MO 65542; 573-674-3229; Fax: 573-674-4047
MDC produces millions of seedling trees and shrubs at this 750 acre nursery. Many of these trees and plants are used for conservation plantings such as widlife habitat improvement, erosion control and reforestation.
Gist Ranch Conservation Area; for information, contact: Ozark Regional Office; 551 Joe Jones Blvd., West Plains, MO 65775; 417-256-7161; Fax: 417-256-0429
This, heavily forested, 11,204 acre area is home to abundant populations of deer, turkey, and other forest wildlife species.
SOUTHWEST REGION
Castor River Conservation Area; for information, contact: Dept. of Conservation; P.O. Box 679, Marble Hill, MO 63764; 573-238-2321
This 9,671 acre area is composed of five separate land parcels in Bollinger County, southwest of of Marble Hill. The area is characterized by steep, broken hills and stony soils . Castor River runs nearby, but not through the area. Primary use of the Castor River Conservation Area is by deer and turkey hunters. Blue Pond Natural Area is a deep, natural sinkhole pond with clear blue water.
Duck Creek Conservation Area; for information, contact: Duck Creek Conservation Area; RR1, Box 186, Puxio, MO 63960; 573-222-3337
This 6,234 acre area is managed, primarily, to promote wildlife habitat for migratory and resident wetland species. A popular site for watching waterfowl during fall and spring migrating periods. It features a 1,800 acre lake.
BUTLER
Coon Island Conservation Area; for information, contact: Dept. of Conservation; 2302 County Park Drive, Cape Girardeau, MO 63701; 573-290-5730
This 3,263 acre area was purchased in 1979 to protect existing wetlands, recreate seasonally flooded bottomland hardwoods, and restore the hydrology of the area to simulate natural water processes.
Dan River Access; for information, contact: Dept. of Conservation, 107 Magazine Lane, Poplar Bluff, MO 63901; 573-840-9788; Fax: 573-840-9523
This, mostly forested, area with small wetlands, offers access to the Black River.
CAPE GIRARDEAU
Apple Creek Conservation Area; for information, contact: Dept. of Conservation; 2302 County Park Drive, Cape Girardeau, MO 63701; 573-290-5730
This area contains forest, wetlands, old fields and frontage along Apple Creek.
Cape Girardeau Conservation Campus Nature Center; for information, contact: Dept. of Conservation; 2289 County Park Drive, Cape Girardeau, MO 63701; 573-290-5218
This nature center, located within Cape Girardeau's North County Park, showcases the rich, cultural history and diverse natural resources of southeast Missouri. The center, also, creates avenues for conservation awareness and education, and is located next to MDC's Southeast Regional Office.
Cape Woods Conservation Area; for information, contact: Dept. of Conservation; 2302 County Park Drive, Cape Girardeau, MO 63701; 573-290-5730
This area is, primarily, a forest tract with some old fields.
Lake Girardeau Conservation Area; for information, contact: Dept. of Conservation; PO Box 679, Marble Hill, MO 63764; 573-290-5730
This area of primarily old fields and forest surrounds 162 acre Lake Girardeau.
Red Star Access; for information, contact: Dept. of Conservation, 2302 County Park Drive, Cape Girardeau, MO 63701; 573-290-5730; Fax: 573-290-5736
This Mississippi River access is located in the northern part of Cape Girardeau.
Southeast Regional Office; for information contact: Dept. of Conservation, 2302 County Park Drive, Cape Girardeau, MO 63701; 573-290-5730; Fax: 573-290-5736
The Southeast Regional Office houses staff from Fisheries, Wildlife, Forestry, Private Land Services, Protection, and Outreach and Education who are available to assist the public in a 16 county region. Facilities at the regional office are ADA accessible. Maple Hollow Trail can be accessed from the office, but is not ADA accessible. Also, available at this office is information about department programs and area brochures for several MDC properties in the southeast region.
DUNKLIN
Little River Conservation Area; for information, contact: Otter Slough Conservation Area; 7001 County Road 675, Dexter, MO 63841; 573-624-5821.
This area, which features the 150 acre Jerry Combs Lake, has several wetland units with levees and water-control structures. This allows them to be managed for the benefit of wading birds and waterfowl during the spring and fall.
MADISON
Millstream Gardens Conservation Area; for information, contact: Dept. of Conservation, 2302 County Park Drive, Cape Girardeau, MO 63701; 573-290-5730
This 614 acre area in Madison County features 20 acres of shut-ins on the St. Francis River.
MISSISSIPPI
Robert G. Delany Lake Conservation Area; for information, contact: Dept. of Conservation, 2302 County Park Drive, Cape Girardeau, MO 63701; 573-290-5730
The, mostly forested, area features the 110 acre Delany Lake.
PERRY
Perry County Community Lake; for information, contact: Dept. of Conservation, 2302 County Park Drive, Cape Girardeau, MO 63701; 573-290-5730
This 310 acre area, which features 110 acre Perry County Community Lake, is located on the western edge of Perryville.
REYNOLDS
Current River Conservation Area; for information, contact: Dept. of Conservation, Route 4, Box 1002, Piedmont, MO 63957; 573-223-4525
This 28,00 acre area is the home of the Missouri Ozark Forest Ecosystem Project (MOFEP) is one of the most comprehensive forest management studies in North America. There is, also, an unstaffed shooting range.
SCOTT
Tywappity Community Lake; for information, contact: Dept. of Conservation, 2302 County Park Drive, Cape Girardeau, MO 63701; 573-290-5730
This area features the 37 acre Tywappity Community Lake.
STE.GENEVIEVE
Magnolia Hollow Conservation Area; for information, contact: Department of Conservation, 2302 County Park Road, Cape Girardeau, MO 63701; 573-290-5730
This rugged 1,740 acre area, featuring steep bluffs and scenic river views, is bordered by Establishment Creek and Schmidt's Island, alongside the Mississippi River. Eagles are commonly sighted along this river.
ST. FRANCOIS
Bismark Conservation Area;for information, contact: Dept. of Conservation; 2302 County Park Drive, Cape Girardeau, MO 63701; 573-290-5730
This 1,188 acre area features 210 DeSalvo ?Create This Page Lake. The geology of this area is among the oldest in Missouri; it includes Precambian igneous rock, lava-formed Cambrian-age LaMotte ?Create This Page sandstone and Cambrian-age dolomite.
Knob Lick Towersite; for information, contact: Dept. of Conservation, 2302 County Park Drive, Cape Girardeau, MO 63701; 573-290-5930
This 80 acre towersite was purchased from the U.S. Forest Service for use in locating wildfires in southern St. Francois and norther Madison counties.
Mineral Area College Range; for information, contact: Dept. of Conservation, 812 Progress Drive, Farmington, MO 63640; 573-756-6488; Fax: 573-756-8719
This is a shot-gun shooting range staffed by the college.
STODDARD
Otter Slough Conservation Area; for information, contact: Otter Slough Conservation Area, 7001 County Road 675, Dexter, MO 63841; 314-624-5821
This 4,866 acre area of open wetlands is one of Missouri's few remaining examples of a cypress/tupelo swamp. It is managed for migratory and native wetland species and habitat; it, also has a 95 acre fishing lake.
BARRY
Roaring River Fish Hatchery; for information, contact: Department of Conservation, Route 4, Box 4152, Cassville, MO 65625; 417-847-2430; Fax: 417-847-5284
Roaring River Fish Hatchery, one of the oldest fish hatcheries in the state, is home to a 7.5 mile stretch of Roaring River and Roaring River Spring. The hatchery is located within a park owned and managed by the Missouri Department of Natural Resources. The park has a variety of camping, picnicking and other public-use facilities. For more information, call the DNR office at 417-847-2539.
BARTON
Shawnee Trail Conservation Area; for information, contact: Dept. of Conservation, 2630 N. Mayfair, Springfield, MO 65803; 417-895-6880 or 417-629-3423
This 3,635 acre area is, mostly, cropland and grassland with some native prairie, wetlands, old fields and pastures. Numerous impoundments and strip pits provide good fishing opportunities, and disabled accessible areas are available on Pin Oak Lake. Managed fishing features fishing features 39 ponds and lakes (113 acres). During your visit to the area you may observe wildlife management, research and soil conservation projects in progress.
DALLAS
Bennet Spring Fish Hatchery; for information, contact: Bennett Spring Fish Hatchery; for information, contact: 26142 Highway 64A, Lebanon, MO 65536; 417-532-4418; Fax: 417-532-5507
Bennett Spring Hatchery is located within Bennett Spring State Park, which is owned and managed by the Missoouri Dept.of Natural Resources. The Park contains a stretch of the Niangua River and Bennett Spring Branch, where trout fishing is popular. The park, also, has a variety of camping, picnicking and other public use facilities. For more information, call the DNR office at 417-532-2128.
GREENE
Bois D'Arc Conservation Area; for information, contact: Dept. of Conservation, Southwest Regional Office, 2630 N. Mayfair, Springfield, MO 65803; 417-895-6880; Range: 417-742-4361
This 3,172 acre conservation area was named after the trees that dominate the mostly open landscape of the region. The area is managed, primarily, for the production of bobwhite quail, doves and cottontail rabbits. The Andy Dalton Shooting Range and Outdoor Education Center is located on this area. It offers shotgun, rifle and pistol shooting areas, along with a classroom.
Southwest Regional Office; for information, contact: Dept. of Conservation, 2630 N. Mayfair, Springfield, MO 65803; 417-895-6880; Fax: 417-895-6910
This office, which serves 17 counties, houses wildlife and fisheries biologists, foresters, conservation agents, private land services specialists and community educators. They are available to dispense information about land management, nuisance wildlife, educational opportunities, and river and pond management. Information and area brochures for other MDC properties in the southwest region are, also, available here.
Springfield Conservation Nature Center; for information, contact: 4600 S. Chrisman, Springfield, MO 65804; 417-888-4237; Fax: 417-888-4241
Just west of Highway 65 off the James River Freeway, this nature center is an 80 acre jewel of an area surrounded by the growing city of Springfield. It's a place to enjoy nature's gifts, and to learn the importance of taking care of them.
LAWRENCE
Chesapeake Fish Hatchery; for information, contact: 21186 Highway 174, Mount Vernon, MO 65712; 417-466-3421; Fax: 417-466-9035
This hatchery raises a variety of warm water species-channel catfish, grass carp, largemouth bass, walleye, bluegill, hybrid sunfish and fathead minnows. Public tours are available.
NEWTON
Bicentennial Conservation Area; for information, contact: Dept. of Conservation; 1510 S. Highway 71, Neosho, MO 64850;417-451-4158; Fax: 417-451-7471
This is a heavily forested area.
Walter Woods Conservation Area; for information, call: Dept. of Conservation, 1510 S. Highway 71, Neosho, MO 64850; 417-451-4158; Fax: 417-451-7471
This forested area includes a one acre fishable pond and a spring (Jacobs Branch). There is, also, a picnic area.
STONE
Ralph Cox Memorial Access; for information, contact: Dept. of Conservation, 226 Claremont Drive, Branson, MO 65616; 417-334-3324; Fax:417-334-4385
This area offers access to the James River.
TANEY
Cooper Creek Access; for information, contact: Dept. of Conservation, 226 Claremont Drive, Branson, MO 65616; 417-334-3324; Fax: 417-334-4385
This area offers boating and shoreline access to 2,080 acre Lake Taneycomo.
Shepherd of the Hills Fish Hatchery; for information, contact: Dept. of Conservation; 633 Hatchery Road, Branson, MO 65616; 417-348-1305; Fax: 417-334-4996
Located six miles southwest of Branson, below Table Rock Dam, this hatchery is the largest trout-production facility operated by MDC. The visitors' center offers exhibits and an aquarium to visitors all year. It is located within a park owned and managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The park has a variety of camping, picnicking and other public-use facilities. For more information, callthe U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' Dewey Short Visitor Center at 417-334-4101.
VERNON
Bushwacker Lake Conservation Area; for information, contact: Dept. of Conservation, 2630 N. Mayfair, Springfield, MO 65803; 417-895-6880
This area contains prairie, forest, old fields, cropland, grasslands, savanna and the 196 acre Bushwacker Lake.
FRANKLIN
Dr. Henry A. and Amalia Uhlemeyer Access; for information, contact: Dept. of Conservation, 375 Highway 185 S., Sullivan, MO 63080; 573-468-3335
This forest and grassland area offers access to the Bourbeuse River.
Little Indian Creek Conservation Area; for information, contact: Dept. of Conservation, 375 Highway 185 S., Sullivan, MO 63080; 573-468-3335
This 3,002 acre area is mostly forested, but has approximately 200 acres of open and semi-open areas. It is, also, used for target-shooting practice.
Meramec Conservation Area; for information, contact: Dept. of Conservation; 375 Highway 185 S., Sullivan, MO 63080; 573-468-3335
Various forest and wildlife improvement projects are in progress on this mostly forested area. The Woodland Trail is 1.3 miles.
Port Hudson Lake Conservation Area; for information, contact: Dept. of Conservation, 375 Highway 185 S., Sullivan, MO 63080; 573-468-3335;
This 225-acre area was named after the small community of Port Hudson, two miles southeast. The 55 acre lake has been open for fishing since 1997.
LINCOLN
William G. and Erma Parke White Memorial Wildlife Area; for information, contact: Dept. of Conservation, 2360 Highway D, St. Charles, MO 63304; 636-441-4554
This area contains 315 acres of timber and 495 acres of open fields, and is, primarily, managed by MDC for bobwhite quail and cottontail rabbits. It, also, has a 22 acre fishing lake.
ST.CHARLES
August A. Busch Memorial Conservation Area; for information, contact: Dept. of Conservation, 2360 Highway D, St. Charles, MO 63304; 636-441-4554; Fax: 636-926-9125
This 7,000 acre area of fields, woods and 72 lakes (550 acres total) offers fishing, hunting, shooting, bird watching and nature study. A visitors' center features exhibits and offers educational programs.
ST. LOUIS
Bellefontaine Conservation Area; for information, contact: Columbia Bottom Conservation Area; 801 Strodtman Road, St. Louis, MO 63138; 314-877-6014
This 133 acre area offers urban fishing opportunities, and interpretive and educational facilities.
Columbia Bottom Conservation Area; for information, contact: Columbia Bottom Conservation Area; 801 Strodtman Road, St. Louis, MO 63138; 314-877-6014
This 4,318 acre urban conservation area is located at the confluence of the Missouri and Mississippi rivers. It features more than six and a half miles of river frontage, 800 acres of bottomland forest and a 110 acre island. A deck offers a view of the confluence.
Emmenegger Nature Park; for information, contact: Dept. of Conservation, 11715 Cragwold Road, Kirkwood, MO 63122; 314-301-1501; Fax:314-301-1501
This area is just west of the Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center.
Forest 44 Conservation Area; for information, contact: Dept. of Conservation; 2751 Glencoe Road, Glencoe, MO 63038; 636-458-2236
This 1,008 acre area offers urban dwellers an opportunity to escape the rigors of the city and to enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. It includes a manned shooting area for public use. Shooting range access from I-44 is at the Beaumont/Antire Road exit (269).
Pacific Palisades Conservation Area; for information, contact: Dept. of Conservation; 2751 Glencoe Road, Wildwood, MO 63038; 636-458-2236
This 692 acre area spans parts of Jefferson and St.Louis counties. In Jefferson County, two sloughs and three miles of lower Meramec River frontage make this a popular spot for anglers. This area is about 65 percent forested, and has 150 acres in fields. This combination is ideal for many songbirds. In St. Louis County is the river acess.
Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center; for information, contact: 11715 Cragwold Road, Kirkwood, MO 63122; 314-301-1500; Fax: 314-301-1501
MDC brought the natural world to city dwellers when it created Powder Valley Conservation Nature center. Both children and adults with an interest in nature will enjoy the exhibits and trails.
Rockwoods Reservation; for information, contact: Rockwoods Reservation; 2751 Glencoe Road, Glencoe, MO 63038; 636-458-2236
This 1,800 acre tract of predominantly forest land also includes a visitors center that features exhibits and educational programs.
Saint Stanislaus Conservation Area; for information, contact: Columbia Bottom Conservation Area; 801 Strodtman Road, St. Louis, MO 63138; 314-877-6014
MDC leases this810 acre area from the St. Louis County Department of Parks and Recreation, and manages it for a variety of wildlife species.
