Places to Go: General Watkins CA

General Watkins Conservation Area

Rising above its surroundings

To say that General Watkins Conservation Area (CA) looks down on the rest of Scott County is not a judgement, but a statement of geological fact.

Located on 1,107 acres of the geological feature known as Crowley’s Ridge, General Watkins CA rises several hundred feet above the surrounding flood plain that constitutes much of Scott County, said Mississippi Lowland District Supervisor Ryan Dirnberger.

“Typically, it’s pretty flat, except for this hilly terrain,” Dirnberger said.

The elevation and the soils contribute to a variety of tree species “that you might normally associate with the Appalachian Mountain Range as opposed to the Ozark Range,” he said. 

The area’s two designated hiking trails — Schlosser Loop Trail and Cemetery Ridge Trail — offer visitors access to both its variety of tree species and its variety of birds. 

“The Schlosser Loop Trail is a good place to go birding because it does change into some different community type habitats,” he said. 

Early November visitors may get a glimpse of the area’s lingering fall foliage, but Dirnberger advises caution, as the area is also heavily used during deer season.

“Try to stay visible,” he said. MDC advises wearing something bright, such as an orange hat, jacket, or pack. “If you do go trekking off in the woods, just be aware there are other people that are doing the same thing.”

General Watkins Conservation Area consists of 1,107 acres in Scott County. From Benton, take Highway 61 south 3 miles to the south side of the area. From Oran, take Highway 77 south 1.5 miles to the west side of the area.