Points of Interest:
- See Ashe juniper trees over 200 years old clinging tenaciously to steep bluffs.
- Enjoy views of Table Rock Lake from the bluff top.
- Look for blooming smoke trees in the spring.
Natural Features Description:
Ashe juniper also called Ozark white cedar is a close relative of Missouri’s ubiquitous eastern red cedar. But Ashe juniper is only found in four southwestern Missouri counties of the White River hills region. This juniper species is abundant in parts of Texas. Ashe juniper differs from red cedar in that the main branches emerge from the base, white blotches ring the bark on the stems, and the leaves are truly green. This site protects one of the largest remaining old-growth stands of Ashe juniper in Missouri. Keep your eyes out for greater roadrunners too as they have been seen here.
From Branson travel south on Highway 65 to Highway 86. Turn right (west) onto Highway 86. Travel nearly 8 miles on Highway 86 (passing over Table Rock Lake’s Long Creek arm) and then turn right (north) onto Highway JJ. Follow Highway JJ north for almost 4 miles and turn left (west) onto California Lane, a gravel road. The natural area begins in a tenth of a mile down along this gravel road.
United States