This site is the premier reference site for dry chert woodland in the Niangua River Hills region of the Ozarks. It has been a destination for numerous academic, natural resource and naturalist organizations since The Nature Conservancy acquired the site in 1983. Few other woodland restoration sites in Missouri contains such a high level of botanical diversity in such a discrete area. The site also contains small areas of chert savanna, a rare natural community type. The open woods typically have something in bloom growing season long and this supports a rich community of native bees. Over 350 native plant species have been documented on the site.
From Lebanon in Laclede County, go west on Highway 64 toward Bennett Spring State Park. Travel west through the park on 64A; turn left onto Highway OO. Continue south on Highway OO for six miles and look to the left (east) for the preserve sign. Park on the old dirt road that branches off Highway OO near the sign. A gate prevents further travel down the dirt road; the parking are can only accomodate 1-2 vehicles. Hiking is welcome but hunting is not allowed.
United States