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This is a large State Forest Areas with lots and lots of riding available. Outside the "official" trails there are far more "local" trails available. I'm sure there is well over a hundred miles of trails that are clearly visible from use though not marked. Despite this, there is much of the state owned forest that is not realistically reachable without some kind of development. With appropriate pressure to really develope the area, this could really be a first class place to ride. The official trails have been pretty well opened up, but this is a pretty hilly area, so most of the trails do have some rather steep areas. The area boarders the Niangua River and some of the mail trails run along Jakes Creek. While those of us who are familiar with the area can find our way out even if we don't know where we are, you need to pay attention to where you are, because you can easily get quite lost. Especially on the weekends, you are usually going to run into some local rider before long, so you should be able to get some help. The conservations department has put in a new Equine Campground with primitive facilities. However, in trying to keep trailers off the steeper hills around the River and creek, they installed it up on the ridge and dug a well for water. The well has a hand pump but because of the depth, it's QUITE (better described as incredibly) hard to operate. You'll find it easier to drive down to Jakes Creek (without the trailer) and haul water. It's a great place to ride. In my opinion, with some desire on the part of the Department of Conservation, it could be perhaps the best in Missouri. Interestingly, while the Dept. has operated this area primarily as deer habitat, I have seldom seen deer and it is not considered a good place to hunt by local hunters. |
