Rocky Falls

If you are in it for a hike, this is not the place for you. If you're in it for the beauty, I'd highly suggest it! Literally just a couple feet from the parking lot, the falls are easy to get to

A popular watering hole in the summer - you'll find this place packed on a hot day with kids sliding down the falls into the pool below. When visiting, I try to go on a cloudy day so as to avoid the crowd. 

There is a quasi trail off the the right of the falls that will lead you to the top - and if you are able to cross over them, the trail continues along to the left of the falls on a loop that will generally provide several unique wildflower sitings. 

The view from the top of the falls is absolutely spectacular. Though, I personally think that they should name them "Angel Falls". In the picture below you can see the angel wings which appear to be on the verge of picking up and flying right off their rocky holster. 

Located in the middle of many of the parks already on this site, it makes an ideal place to stop for lunch and cool down before continuing on. There are public restrooms and picnic tables along the edge of the falls, making it an easy place to regroup before going back out into the wilds. 

The falls are one of the few places down towards Eminence that are clearly marked and simple to find. I will include a link below for directions, but I could not find a map of the area for you. :/ 

http://www.nps.gov/ozar/naturescience/rocky-falls.htm 

Mill Mountain

Mill Mountain was absolutely spectacular. I was able to be there a couple days after a heavy rain and the river was gushing through the rock barriers as if they didn't even exist. There is a small parking area across the road from where the old mill used to be. The OT also runs across the river at this point. You will be able to see it from the parking lot, and once you get across the river (if you can) you'll find that the trail continues onward from the opposite bank.


The large rock formations pose interesting challenges and opportunities. It is possible to cross without getting wet (My hiking partner managed this - I did not), but difficult during high water.

My suggestion would be to wait till a warm day so that if you have to, you can cross in the water and take time to dry in the sun before continuing on. But even if you don't want to tempt fate by crossing, this place has beauty nearly untouched by man that makes the soul believe in strength and power again. 

After crossing you'll find the OT, and if you hike it far enough, it will connect with Klepzig Mill. I was forced to turn around before finding the mill, so I'm not able to say how far away it is. I hiked approximately 5 miles up the trail without running into it, but for all I know, I could have turned around a mile before reaching it. But even without the Mill, this section of the Ozark Trail is beautiful and spends most of its time running along a separate river way. 

Be prepared, this part of the trail is often flooded and there are many muddy patches. If you are paying attention to where you are hiking, they are easily avoided.

Below is a map of the area (it's not extremely detailed, and I'm sorry for that). I am also providing the link to the MDC website for this area. It provides a lot of helpful information about the area and the history behind it. Hope you enjoy! 

http://mdc.mo.gov/discover-nature/places-go/natural-areas/mill-mountain

Angeline CA - Lick Log Hollow Trail

Lick Log Hollow consists of a single trail that runs about 1.5 miles. I wouldn't suggest making a special trip out to see it because of this very reason, but if you are in the area, it is worth checking out.





The trail is well maintained and wide enough for two people to walk side by side. The trail will run alongside a small creek in the beginning but as the trail continues, the creek will grow - don't worry! The path is lined with pine trees, oaks, dogwoods, and maples. I am sure it would be a very beautiful hike any time of the year, but especially fall!

























As you follow the trail, you will come to a bridge that spans the small creek. At this bridge you'll have the best view of these unique rock structures that begin to occur along the creek as you're hiking.

Below is a map of the area - be careful that you don't get lost on the many interconnecting trails! The Lick Log Hollow trail is outlined in purple: 

Red Prairie

This is one of those freak discoveries that happen every now and then and leave you in awe of what you just saw. I was lost trying to find Mill Mountain and happened to see this conservation area open to hunters and hikers alike. Unable to pass it by, I stopped and took a look around. . . and was stopped dead in my tracks.


Two fields were completely covered in a red clover plant that I've never found in numbers like this anywhere else. The smell was amazing and the sight even more so.

Out of the woods where you can see me emerging in the picture below is a small animal trail that leads to a spring which runs along side the field. 

Walking in you feel as if you've entered a different world - one of miracles. Words are frustrating because they can't possibly describe to you the cool wind that comes up from the creek to wash over you, or the sound of dozens of bumblebees and butterflies circling you. They can't capture the sweet scent of hundreds of clovers moving under you... The english language is utterly inadequate.

I ran across this place on the last day of April - so if you are looking for it you might want to move quickly or wait till next year in order to catch the flowers in full bloom. 

Fiery Forks CA

This is a good place to go and simply relax. The hiking is easy, the river cool, and the visitors few.

I do not have very many pictures from this area, I will have to go back and get more. But it does run right along side a fairly large arm of the Niangua River. There aren't many trails, so exploration is up to you.

Heart shaped pond in the heart of the woods

There is a small trail (I'm not sure if it was created by man or animal) that provides a picturesque view of the Niangua river - if you can find it. 

Be careful! There are several places that this trail runs through brambles and wild rose bushes, so don't be caught unawares. I had an easier time than my companion, who checks in at 6'6", ducking through the thorns was a sight more difficult for him. 

 At the end of the trail (past the bend in the river seen in this picture) you'll find yourself in a large open field with several old trees shading your walk through waves of flowing green grass. It's as if you've stepped into a different world. 

But be careful, there are snakes in the area. The poor guy below had apparently eaten something inside the tree and was unable to get out. 

The area is fairly easy to find. Take North 7 out of Camdenton and follow it out of Greenview. About 10 miles down Hwy 7 on your left is a dirt road with a sign for Fiery Forks CA, turn here. Follow the signs until you come to a fork in the road. There are three parking areas for the park, so either direction at the fork you take will lead you into the park and there will be a map stationed at the parking lot to help you decide where you want to get started.