Blueberry Hill Conservation Area wilderness guide
Conservation Area · Missouri

Blueberry Hill Conservation Area

Blueberry Hill Conservation Area provides a mix of forest, glades, and open spaces ideal for hiking, wildlife viewing, and exploring diverse natural habitats in Missouri's Ozark region.

Conservation Area6584+ Trails

Designation

Conservation Area

Total Wilderness Area

658

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Blueberry Hill Conservation Area

Blueberry Hill Conservation Area provides a mix of forest, glades, and open spaces ideal for hiking, wildlife viewing, and exploring diverse natural habitats in Missouri's Ozark region.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Blueberry Hill Conservation Area covers approximately 658 acres of diverse terrain located in Jefferson County, Missouri. The area features rolling hills, oak-hickory woodlands, open glades, and several small creeks. The conservation area offers visitors outdoor recreation opportunities such as hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife observation within a relatively compact but ecologically rich setting. The region serves as an important habitat for native plants and wildlife, including species such as white-tailed deer, wild turkey, and a variety of songbirds. The forested hills provide shelter for small mammals and reptiles, while the glade communities support specialized plant species adapted to the drier, rocky conditions. The area's name, Blueberry Hill, reflects the presence of wild blueberries that bloom in early summer and provide a seasonal food source for both wildlife and visitors. Trails wind through the landscape offering scenic views of the Ozark foothills and opportunities to experience natural Missouri habitats. The conservation area is managed by the Missouri Department of Conservation, which maintains the trails and monitors the health of the ecosystems. Visitors appreciate the peaceful setting away from urban centers along with the chance to engage in activities such as nature photography, birding, and casual hiking. The conservation area functions both as a recreational destination and a wildlife sanctuary, promoting conservation and environmental education for the public.

Field Guide · Conservation Area
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Blueberry Hill Conservation Area

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Wild Blueberry Fields blooming in early summer✦ Diverse oak-hickory forest and native glades ecosystems✦ Panoramic views from the highest hilltops✦ Quiet creekside areas ideal for wildlife watching
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Blueberry Hill Conservation Area

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Blueberry Hill Conservation Area
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Blueberry Hill Conservation Area
Park Recreation

Nature Photography

Available in Blueberry Hill Conservation Area
Park Recreation

Birdwatching

Available in Blueberry Hill Conservation Area
Park Recreation

Trail Running

Available in Blueberry Hill Conservation Area
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Blueberry Hill Conservation Area.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free access with no permits or fees required.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Blueberry Hill Conservation Area

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

De Soto, Missouri
⌖ 2.53 miles
Gateway Basecamp

De Soto, Missouri

De Soto, Missouri, is a quiet town with access to scenic hiking, fishing, boating, and bird watching. Visitors enjoy peaceful trails in the Henry Shaw Ozark Corridor and paddling nearby waterways, making it a great low-key adventure destination.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Festus, Missouri
⌖ 7.96 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Festus, Missouri

Festus, Missouri is a quiet town on the Mississippi River offering hiking, biking, and paddling nearby. It's perfect for outdoor lovers looking for peaceful nature, wildlife viewing, and river adventures without crowds.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Herculaneum, Missouri
⌖ 10.46 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Herculaneum, Missouri

Herculaneum is a quiet riverside town on the Mississippi offering paddling, fishing, and nearby hiking. Ideal for outdoor travelers seeking peaceful water and nature experiences away from crowds.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Barnhart, Missouri
⌖ 14.65 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Barnhart, Missouri

Barnhart offers a quiet outdoor escape with paddling on the Mississippi River, scenic hikes, and wildlife watching. It’s a great basecamp for nature lovers wanting peaceful river views and easy access to nearby parks.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Cedar Hill, Missouri
⌖ 15.71 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Cedar Hill, Missouri

Cedar Hill offers quiet access to rugged trails, fishing spots, and paddling sites amid Missouri’s woodlands. Perfect for travelers seeking nature, easy hiking, and camping in a peaceful small-town setting.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Bonne Terre, Missouri
⌖ 16.02 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Bonne Terre, Missouri

Bonne Terre, Missouri, offers a unique blend of underground cave diving and outdoor activities along rivers and trails. With historic mining charm and scenic nature spots, it’s a destination for adventurers seeking something different in the Midwest.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Blueberry Hill Conservation Area

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

Cabin 2: A compact, smoke‑free getaway for 4–6 in De Soto
ADVEXPEDITION
De Soto, Missouri
LodgingADV Bookable

Cabin 2: A compact, smoke‑free getaway for 4–6 in De Soto

A one‑bedroom cabin with two full beds and a sleeper sofa, available for short stays or multi‑night escapes — this guide explains the layout, booking rules, and house restrictions.

LodgingPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Cabin 5: A Quiet, Comfort-First Retreat in De Soto
ADVEXPEDITION
De Soto, Missouri
LodgingADV Bookable

Cabin 5: A Quiet, Comfort-First Retreat in De Soto

A two-bedroom, smoke-free cabin that sleeps up to six; this guide distills booking rules, house policies and the sleeping layout so you arrive prepared.

LodgingPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip