About Prairie Fork
Prairie Fork Conservation Area (PFCA) is a 911-acre area that was donated to the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC), with the initial 711 acres donated by Hilda P. Jones in 1997.
In 2004, an additional 200 acres was purchased by Mrs. Jones. She donated this tract to the Missouri Prairie Foundation with the intention that it be deeded to MDC upon final prairie reconstruction planting in 2019.
Prairie Fork is managed by the Missouri Department of Conservation, in close cooperation with the Prairie Fork Trust and the University of Missouri School of Natural Resources.
Prairie Fork lies within a transitional zone.
Prairie Fork lies within the transitional zone from the Glaciated Plains to the Ozark Border Natural Division. The northern half of the property was historically uplands covered by prairie grasses and wildflowers, transitioning into the Missouri River Hills woodland and savanna habitats in the southern portion.
Before donation it was used for agricultural & livestock production.
The area was in agricultural & livestock production prior to its donation. Great effort has been focused on converting the open lands back into a highly diverse prairie/savanna ecosystem.
Recreational Opportunities
Hiking – Nature Study – Birding – Botany – Photography – Wildlife Viewing
Rules and Regulations
Conservation Areas are closed from 10:00pm to 4:00am except for authorized activities.
- NO hunting, fishing, or collecting of antlers, mushrooms, berries or wildflower seed.
- Daily use permit required for access to the property.
Enjoy your time at Prairie Fork, and remember to “Learn, Get Dirty, and Have Fun!”
Full Area Map
Area 1 Map
Area 2 Map
Public Contacts
Jeff Demand
Area Manager
Wildlife Management Biologist
Marissa Forbis
Conservation Educator