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Missouri
56

Missouri State Parks

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USA Parks
Missouri
Northwest Region
Grand Trace State Forest
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GRAND TRACE STATE FOREST
GRAND TRACE STATE FOREST
The Grand Trace State Forest is a vast natural expanse that captivates visitors with its stunning beauty and diverse ecosystems. Spanning across rolling hills and dense woodlands, this forest offers an immersive experience for nature enthusiasts, hikers, and wildlife lovers alike. With an abundance of towering trees, vibrant wildflowers, and picturesque streams, the Grand Trace State Forest serves as a sanctuary for numerous species of flora and fauna, creating a serene ambiance in which visitors can reconnect with the marvels of the natural world. Whether exploring its well-maintained trails, camping under the starlit sky, or observing the intricate web of life, this forest offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and allows visitors to embrace the tranquility and majesty of Missouri's natural landscape.
History of the Area
The Grand Trace State Forest is a preserved natural area located in the southeastern part of Missouri, USA. The forest gets its name from the "Great Trace," an old trail used by Native Americans and early settlers that passed through the region. Here's a brief overview of Grand Trace State Forest's history:

1. Native American Presence: For thousands of years before the arrival of European settlers, the Native American tribes, primarily the Osage, inhabited the area. They used the land for hunting, gathering, and trading.

2. European Settlement: By the early 1800s, European settlers began to establish farms and communities in the area. The Great Trace, which the forest is named after, was an important pathway for these early settlers.

3. Logging Era: In the late 1800s and early 1900s, the region witnessed significant logging activities. Large sections of the forest were cut down to meet the increasing demand for timber. Logging companies exploited the area's rich timber resources for various products, leading to extensive deforestation and ecosystem degradation.

4. Conservation Efforts: In the mid-1900s, concerns over deforestation and the need for preserving natural areas led to the creation of "cut-over areas" in the state. These areas were set aside for reforestation and conservation purposes. One such area was the Grand Trace State Forest, which was established in 1954.

5. Reforestation and Restoration: Following its establishment, the Missouri Department of Conservation initiated reforestation efforts within the state forest. Thousands of trees were planted to restore the area's natural beauty and to protect the land from soil erosion.

6. Recreational Use: Today, the Grand Trace State Forest is primarily used for recreational purposes. It offers numerous amenities for outdoor enthusiasts, including hiking trails, camping areas, picnic spots, and hunting opportunities. The forest provides a serene escape for nature lovers and promotes the conservation of Missouri's natural resources.
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Area Campgrounds
Quail Ridge RV Park
31198 E 230th Avenue
Bethany, MO
660-425-2288

Directions
1. Start your journey on the nearest major highway or interstate that will lead you to Highway 67.
2. Take Highway 67 southbound if coming from St Louis, or northbound if coming from Poplar Bluff.
3. Continue driving along Highway 67 until you reach Fredericktown, a small town in Madison County, Missouri.
4. In Fredericktown, take Route OO westward towards Marquand for approximately 7 miles.
5. Look out for signs indicating the entrance to Grand Trace State Forest as you approach Marquand.

Once inside the forest area:
6. Follow any additional signage directing visitors toward specific trails or recreational areas within the state forest.

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Missouri
56

Missouri State Parks

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