Natural Areas

Explore Missouri's original landscapes

Missouri's natural areas represent some of the best — and last — examples of our state's original landscape. Here are places where you can still see the rare plants, animals, and geological features that pre-settlement native Americans knew well or that explorers such as Lewis and Clark observed and recorded. Explore remnant prairies, old-growth forests and woodlands, rare wetlands, caves, and many other kinds of native habitat.

Plan a visit

Use the information in this section to plan a visit to a natural area. Whether your interest is nature study, birding, hiking, fishing, hunting, or photography, you'll find a designated Missouri natural area to enjoy your favorite low-impact outdoor recreational activity.