Niangua River Hills

Points of Interest:

• See a wide range of natural communities characteristic of the Osage River Hills region, including dolomite glades, chert woodlands, fens, headwater streams, and forests.
• Search for the over 300 native plant species found here.
• Enjoy expansive views of the Niangua River hills from open glades above Jakes Creek valley.

Natural Features Description:

Many of the natural communities here contain plants and animals adapted to periodic fire. Area management staff use carefully planned prescribed fires to restore glades, woodlands and fens. The area supports four species of conservation concern and many plant and insect species considered to be indicative of high-quality natural communities. Diverse glades and associated woodlands support a wealth of wildflowers throughout the season, including Gattinger’s goldenrod, Great Plains ladies’ tresses orchid, and blue hearts – all remnant-dependent species. A number of bird species utilize the restored glades and woodlands including wild turkey, prairie warbler, blue-winged warbler, blue-gray gnatcatcher, eastern wood-pewee, summer tanager, and white-eyed vireo.