April - June, 2008
Forest Activities
Forests are important to the millions of Missourians who hunt, hike, camp, enjoy scenery, watch birds, canoe, or photograph nature. Missouri is one of America’s great forested states, ranking seventh of the 20 northeastern states in the amount of forest land. Forests cover about a third of the state – forests containing some of the finest oak, walnut, pine, and redcedar found anywhere.
In addition to hiking, camping, wildlife and nature viewing, bird watching forests add to the clear water and scenic beauty associated with many of Missouri’s favorite float streams. River access and camping opportunities are available on many Conservation Areas.
Forests near you
The Department of Natural Resources controls over 3,600 developed campsites in Missouri’s State Parks, and the Forest Service has another 500 developed campsites in the Mark Twain National Forest. But for those who prefer a more primitive camping experience, most Department of Conservation and Forest Service land is open to camping.
Hikers and backpackers use hundreds of trails in Missouri’s forests. The Ozark Trail, when completed, will stretch over 500 miles through the Ozarks from St. Louis to Arkansas. Trails on Conservation Department and Forest Service lands add another 1,200 miles available to hikers. Horseback riders have over 1,000 miles of road and trails on public land open for riding.
Wilderness Areas offer other opportunities to enjoy the forest. Congress has designated eight federal Wilderness Areas in Missouri, totaling 71,358 acres, on national forest land and national wildlife refuge land. Regulations prohibit management practices, vehicles and motorized equipment in these areas. Wilderness Areas offer the solitude and undisturbed experience that many forest users desire.