Eight wilderness areas are distributed mainly through the southern part of the Show-Me state. Most, but not all, are south of Interstate 44. Most of them have walking routes that will take you into their interior, and they all emphasize the “Leave no trace” ethic. First, we will quickly review each one, and then consider the “Leave no runs” rules.
1. Bell Mountain Wildlife
Bell Mountain covers about 9,000 acres. It is located in the mountains of St. Louis François, which combine the highest mountains in Missouri. The highest point is 1702 feet in Mount Bella. Part of the tropic system in Bell Mountain wilderness is part of the Ozark trail (about one mile). From there, the trail goes off and heads to Bell Mountain. A total of 12 miles of trail is very very complex in nature, and the campsite must be made at least 100 feet from the trail. Other camping issues will be discussed later.
The closest route to the desert can be found in Potosi, Missouri, and is approximately 20 miles away. More accurate instructions can be found on the USFS website.
2. Devil Trunk Desert
Devils Backbone Wilderness Area is only 7,000 acres. It is located in south central Missouri near the West Plains (approximately 15 miles away). There are about 13 miles of trail used by the feet, and is also open to equestrian transport. Its name is for the central ridge, where most of the trail is at its highest point, reaching 1020 feet in height. The trail system is reasonably feasible for a moderately in-shape hiker / camper. North Fork Recreation Area provides a camping site if a visitor wants to sit there and just go hiking in the desert. Otherwise, the general desert rules apply. More accurate directions, as well as maps can be obtained via USFS.
3. Hercules Rad Wild
This stunningly beautiful area is located in the deep southern regions of Missouri. This depth is more than 12,000 acres in size and may be one of the most beautiful areas of the Midwest. The district can be reached from Bradleyville or Forsyth and approximately 8 miles from each. This wonderful area has more than 30 miles of supported routes, but if you wish, day or day excursions can be made on the short branches of this tropic system. It should be noted that many streams are not equipped with bridges, and the trails range from moderate to very difficult. Again, additional information, directions and maps are available via USFS.
4. Irish desert
The Irish desert has a lot to do. It has a rich history, many recreational opportunities associated with water (River Eleven), and an excellent trail system. In the Irish desert there are more than 16,000 protected acres. There are 3 main trails in the desert, but one of them is only available after a float on the Eleven River (White Trail). The Five Pond Trail Beds are usually available, leaving Donifan, Missouri, and approximately 35 miles away. It should be noted that this trail is widely used by horse riders. “Brawley Pond Trail head” is the path past the “Five Pond Five” and receives a little less horse traffic in our experience.
5. Solitude Mingo
This area is slightly less than 8,000 acres and is managed by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service. It is part of the much larger wildlife reserve of Mingo and a refugee for many migratory waterfowl. This is a diverse area in which marshy areas are located, as well as the typical geography of Ozark. It is located in the Missouri “boothel” area.
6. Paddy Creek Desert Area
Approximately 7,000 acres in size, and is located in the beautiful area of Big Pine. There is a track system which is a loop with a total length of about 17 miles. Marking on this path is not visible, so the map, compass and / or GPS are required (never completely alone on the GPS device). The trail starts at the Roby Lake Recreation Area. There is also a Paddy Creek Recreation Area with 21 single sites. The district is located about 20 miles from Roby, Missouri and specific destinations, and maps are available via USFS.
7. Pinea Creek Desert Territory
Pinay Creek Manor is approximately 8,000 acres in size and is approximately 35 miles from Branson, Missouri. There are more than 13 miles of trails in this desert. This wilderness area contains a watershed for Piney Creek and feeds the famous Missouri Rocky Lake. Additional information is available via USFS.
8. Rockpile Desert Area
It is the smallest wilderness of Missouri (about 4,000 acres) and is mostly surrounded by private property. After that it is a beautiful territory. There are no permanent sources of water, with the exception of some ponds built prior to its design as a desert, to capture spring water and provide water for abundant wildlife. There are only 2 miles of marked trails, but some abandoned logging roads from past years. It is named after a heap of granite stone erected by some human resident many years ago. More information can be found in USFS.
Leave no trace
- Plan ahead and prepare
- Travel and camp on rugged surfaces
- Dispose of waste properly.
- Leave what you find
- Minimize the impact of the fire
- Respect for wildlife
- Be attentive to other visitors.
These principles are minimal for these fragile areas.
