Spring Creek flows through one of the most intricately dissected portions of the south central
Ozarks. The cutting forces in this case are Noblett and Spring Creeks, which have each carved their
own deep, narrow valley, with bluff-lined entrenched meanders. The juncture of the two streams in
the heart of this nearly 7000 acre wilderness is a veritable maze of narrow hogback ridges and sheer
dolomite bluffs, up to 200 feet high. The hogback just above the main juncture offers superb vistas
of wild forest in all directions. The double corridor of these narrow south-flowing valleys forms the
scenic core of this area, flanked by the rolling tributary drainages on the east and west.
Elevation ranges from 1182 feet on the eastern flank to less than 820 feet along Spring Creek.
Both Noblett and Spring Creeks are spring-fed permanent streams with deep pools and clear cold waters.
Several springs occur in the area including Galloway Spring. Bald eagles have been observed in the
vicinity, and ruffed grouse, scarce in Missouri, also occur in the area.
Adjacent to Spring Creek is the Carman Springs Wildlife Management Area. The 8500 acre Carman Springs
area is heavily managed through logging and prescribed burns. The proposed Spring Creek Wilderness
offers a fitting ecological and recreational complement in this diverse landscape.
Picturesque Noblett Lake and Campground forms a perfect entry into this area, surrounded by the wild
hills of the wilderness. And one of the most popular trails in the Ozarks, the Ridge Runner Trial,
provides the hiker with excellent access into this very beautiful and unspoiled landscape.
Proposed Wilderness Acreage
6,730 acres in Mark Twain National Forest
Map of Spring Creek Proposed Wilderness
Map provided for reference information only. MWC is not responsible for it's accuracy.
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