The northern half of the state of Missouri is not traditionally associated with potential
wilderness – and with good reason. The northern part of our state is rich in agricultural soils
and most of this section has been farmed for more than a century. Nevertheless a few small patches
of rough, wild land survive. One such area, Smith Creek in Callaway and Boone Counties, has full
wilderness quality. This uniqueness has made Smith Creek one of Missouri’s most cherished wild
lands.
Smith Creek is part of the outer Ozark border country and is small, a mere 2195 acres, but it makes
up in charm what it lacks in size.
Named for a tributary of Cedar Creek which normally flows all year, this stream has carved a
beautiful bluff-lined valley through the otherwise rolling uplands of central Missouri. The bluffs
are formed of Burlington limestone and have weathered in some places into picturesque pinnacles,
buttresses, and gothic arches. Several small tributaries flow along rock-bottom chutes whose surfaces
have been worn smooth by centuries of flowing water. Small waterfalls have formed, and sculpted
rock ledges line long stretches.
A recent acquisition includes over one mile of frontage on Cedar Creek, the noteworthy stream which
anchors the entire area. Such Creek frontage holdings are scarce in the Cedar Creek Unit of the Mark
Twain. This addition gives the Smith Creek Area the most significant frontage ownership within the
entire Unit, as well as the length of Cedar Creek that is the most scenic, wild and natural in
character.
Only twenty minutes away from the growing cities of Columbia and Fulton, and thirty minutes from
Jefferson City, Smith Creek is a wilderness oasis for central Missourians. Day hiking and overnight
backpacking are popular, as is occasional horseback riding. Spring wildflower walks are often
arranged to take advantage of the colorful displays. Hunting for squirrel, deer and turkey are
popular. A boy scout trail also crosses the area.
Proposed Wilderness Acreage
2,195 acres in Mark Twain National Forest
Map of Smith Creek Proposed Wilderness
Map provided for reference information only. MWC is not responsible for it's accuracy.
Go Back To Proposed Wilderness Areas
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