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Pomme de Terre Conservation Area adventures

Pomme de Terre Conservation Area Adventures

Pomme de Terre Conservation Area in Missouri offers diverse outdoor recreation including hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and camping across forested landscapes and prairies surrounding the Pomme de Terre Lake.

4,214
Acres Protected
12
Miles of Trails
25,000+
Annual Visitors
1958
Year Established

About Pomme de Terre Conservation Area

 

Pomme de Terre Conservation Area spans more than 4,000 acres of public land located in Hickory County, Missouri. It surrounds the extensive Pomme de Terre Lake, providing a combination of forested hills, wetlands, prairies, and shoreline habitat. The conservation area preserves important Missouri wildlife habitats and supports populations of white-tailed deer, wild turkey, quail, and various migratory birds, making it attractive for hunters and bird watchers year-round. The area’s terrain ranges from gently rolling hills with mature oak-hickory forests to open grasslands. The lake itself is a popular destination for anglers pursuing bass, crappie, catfish, and bluegill. Several well-maintained trails weave through the conservation area, offering walkers, hikers, and horseback riders a chance to experience the region’s natural beauty. Opportunities for camping exist at nearby federal and state campgrounds, with facilities supporting both RV and tent camping. Historically, the region was used for timber and small-scale farming before being managed for conservation and recreational use by the Missouri Department of Conservation. Visitors appreciate the relative quiet and remote feel of the area compared to more developed parks, along with the variety of outdoor activities like fishing, hiking, boating, and hunting. The area also supports educational programs and wildlife observation events, helping promote natural resource awareness and stewardship. With its blend of water, forest, and prairie ecosystems, the Pomme de Terre Conservation Area is a valuable resource for outdoor enthusiasts seeking diverse Missouri landscapes.

Highlights

Highlight

Shawnee Trail loop – a scenic hiking and horseback riding trail through oak-hickory forest

Highlight

Pomme de Terre Lake shoreline – excellent fishing and bird watching locations

Highlight

Diverse wildlife habitats supporting whitetail deer, wild turkey, and migratory birds

Highlight

Authorized boat ramps providing access for kayak, canoe, and motorboat users

Notable Natural Features

Shawnee Trail Loop

A multi-use 10-mile loop trail winding through oak-hickory forests and open glades, offering varied scenery and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Pomme de Terre Lake

A large reservoir providing extensive shoreline access for fishing, boating, and paddle sports amid natural scenic settings.

Oak-Hickory Forest Ecosystem

Mature forest stands supporting diverse native plant and animal species representative of central Missouri’s upland habitats.