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Missouri
60

Missouri State Parks

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USA Parks
Missouri
Northeast Region
Reifsnider State Forest
Reifsnider State Forest Red Winged Blackbird © Bob Clark
I caught this nice Red Winged Blackbird in the reeds bordering a nice blue, clay pit lake.
Bluebird © stateparks.com
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REIFSNIDER STATE FOREST
REIFSNIDER STATE FOREST
Reifsnider State Forest is a pristine and breathtaking natural oasis, offering a range of diverse ecosystems and outdoor recreational opportunities. With its lush forests, rolling hills, and shimmering streams, the state forest provides a haven for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy activities such as hiking, bird watching, and fishing. The forest boasts an impressive assortment of native trees, including oak, hickory, and maple, providing a captivating display of vibrant autumnal colors. Adventure-seekers can explore the network of well-maintained trails, each leading to scenic vistas and secluded spots, immersing visitors in the tranquil beauty of nature. Whether you are seeking solitude, wildlife encounters, or a refreshing getaway, Reifsnider State Forest is the perfect destination for those seeking respite in the heart of Missouri's picturesque landscape.
History of the Area
Reifsnider State Forest is located in central Missouri's Callaway County. It covers approximately 4,128 acres of land and is managed by the Missouri Department of Conservation. The forest was established in 1944 and was named after Louis L. Reifsnider, who served as the first State Forester of Missouri from 1920 to 1951.

The establishment of Reifsnider State Forest was part of a larger effort by the Department of Conservation to address the issues of timber depletion and soil erosion in the state. During the early 20th century, intensive logging and poor land management practices had resulted in significant forest degradation and erosion problems in Missouri.

To combat these issues, the Missouri Department of Conservation began acquiring land across the state for reforestation purposes. Reifsnider State Forest was one of the areas acquired and managed for reforestation and sustainable timber production.

The forest contains a variety of tree species, including oak, hickory, maple, and pine. It serves as an important habitat for various wildlife species, such as white-tailed deer, wild turkey, quail, songbirds, and numerous reptiles and amphibians.

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Location
Reifsnider State Forest is located near Lake Saint Louis, Troy and Warrenton

Trails
1. Loutre Hills Trail: This is a 3-mile loop trail that offers scenic views of the forest and wildlife sightings. It's moderately challenging with some steep inclines, making it suitable for intermediate hikers.

2. Reifsnider Red Loop Trail: A popular choice among visitors, this 6-mile loop features diverse terrain including hardwood forests, grasslands and wetland areas along its length.

3. Blue River Bluff Hiking Trails: These trails offer stunning vistas overlooking the Missouri river valley below from atop limestone bluffs; they range in difficulty level to accommodate all types of hikers - beginners through advanced ones.

4. Big Piney Woods Pathway: An easy-to-moderate hiking route stretching over four miles within dense pine woods offering an immersive experience into nature's tranquility.

5. Wildcat Ridge Track: Known as one of the more strenuous hikes due to its elevation gain but rewards you with panoramic views across vast expanses of woodland landscape.

6. Silver Creek Circuit: Features several creek crossings on bridges or stepping stones depending upon water levels at different times throughout year.

7. Deer Run Route: As name suggests, there are high chances spotting deer during early morning or late evening hours while traversing this three mile long path winding around meadows & thickets.

8. Bear Paw Passages: Two separate sections each about two-and-a-half miles long running parallel alongside small streams providing opportunities bird watching enthusiasts spot various species native birds inhabiting these habitats.

9. Owl Hollow Waypoint: Shortest track measuring just under half-a-mile ideal families young children introducing them joys outdoor activities without being too physically demanding.

10. Coyote Crossing Course: Five mile stretch passing by old homesteads abandoned since mid-20th century giving glimpse past human settlements area besides natural beauty surrounding landscapes.

Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews
April 26 Nice range and clay pit fishing by kpfishman
park review stars; one to five Nice shooting range up to 100 yards. Bring a canoe or kayak and you can even catch some bass in the clay pit.
July 2 Shooting Range Review
park review stars; one to five Nice outdoor shooting range with three different distances to shoot. Park provided target backing, should bring own targets and attaching mechanism. 8 to 10 cement rests with seat. No shade so be prepared to deal with the sun. Creek near entrance of park can make it impossible to reach the gun range after heavy rains.
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Area Campgrounds
Sunrise RV Park LLC
4592 Brandes Road
Moscow Mills, MO
636-399-3797
Jonesburg Gardens Campground
50 Highway E
Jonesburg, MO
636-488-5630

Directions
1. Start by heading onto I:44 E from your current location.
2. Continue on I:44 E for approximately 30 miles until you reach exit 186 toward St James/Steelville.
3. Take this exit and merge onto MO:8 W/MO-ZZ S towards Steelville.
4. Stay on MO:ZZ S for about 9 miles until you reach a roundabout intersection with Main Street in Steelville.
5. At the roundabout, take the second exit to stay on MO:ZZ S/Main Street and continue to follow it for another mile or so.
6. Turn left onto N Highway (MO:H) at Casey's General Store after passing through downtown Steelville.
7. Continue driving northbound along N Highway (MO:H)for around five minutes.
8. The entrance to Reifsnider State Forest will be visible on your right:hand side shortly after crossing Dry Creek Road.

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Missouri
60

Missouri State Parks

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