Save
You must be signed in to save park lists.
Your Park Lists
add New List
Add Photo
You must be signed in to add photos.
state route ranger badge
Missouri
66

Missouri State Parks

responsive menu icon
USA Parks
Missouri
Northwest Region
Poosey State Forest
Bluebird © stateparks.com
Campfire and Hotdogs © stateparks.com
Roasting hot dogs over an open fire.
Search
Availability
Calendars
Availability Search
POOSEY STATE FOREST
POOSEY STATE FOREST
The Poosey State Forest is a picturesque natural haven that showcases the state's diverse ecosystems and stunning landscapes. Located in the rolling hills of the Missouri River Valley, this forest encompasses vast woodlands, lush meadows, and tranquil streams, offering visitors a chance to explore and connect with nature. Boasting an abundance of wildlife, Poosey State Forest provides opportunities for hiking, bird-watching, and wildlife observation, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the pristine beauty and serenity of this incredible natural sanctuary.
History of the Area
1. Early Settlement: The land that is now Poosey State Forest was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Sac and Fox tribes. In the early 1800s, European settlers began arriving in the area, primarily of German and Scottish descent.

2. Poosey Family: The forest's name is derived from the Poosey family who settled in the area in the mid-1800s. Samuel Poosey, an early pioneer, established a farm and helped develop the community. Over time, the area became known as Poosey.

3. Timber Industry: In the late 19th century, the timber industry boomed in Missouri, and the forests of Poosey became an important resource. Logging companies harvested the forest for timber, and its streams were used to float logs downstream to mills.

4. Soil Conservation: In the early 1930s, during the Great Depression, the United States government established the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) to provide jobs for unemployed young men. One of the tasks undertaken by the CCC was soil conservation, and Poosey State Forest was an area where the CCC implemented erosion control measures such as terracing, tree planting, and erosion dams.

5. State Forest Establishment: In 1930, the Missouri Department of Conservation acquired the land that would become Poosey State Forest. The department designated the area as a state forest to provide public access for outdoor recreation, wildlife habitat management, and sustainable timber production.

6. Development and Preservation: Over the years, the Missouri Department of Conservation has developed and maintained Poosey State Forest for various recreational activities. This includes creating hiking trails, camping grounds, picnic areas, and a shooting range. The forest is also managed to preserve its natural resources, protect wildlife, and sustain a healthy ecosystem.

Poosey State Forest covers approximately 5,900 acres and remains a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those interested in the region's history. It offers opportunities for hiking, camping, birdwatching, hunting (seasonally), and wildlife observation.
Nearby Vacation Rentals
Search for a vacation rental


Location
Poosey State Forest is located near Chillicothe
Nearby Parks

Trails
1. Indian Creek Trail: This trail is approximately 5 miles long and winds through dense forests, crossing the beautiful Indian Creek multiple times. It's a moderate difficulty level with some steep inclines.

2. Poosey Conservation Area Loop: A popular choice among hikers due to its diverse landscapes including woodlands, grasslands and wetland areas over an approximate distance of 6 miles.

3. Forest Lake Trail: An easy hike that circles around the scenic forest lake for about two miles offering great views of local wildlife such as deer or waterfowl species in their natural habitat.

4. Thompson River Crossing Pathway: Approximately three-mile-long pathway which includes several river crossings using footbridges; offers stunning views especially during fall when leaves change color.

5. Pine Ridge Nature Walk: About one mile loop walk suitable for beginners featuring pine groves along rolling hillsides providing excellent opportunities for bird watching.

6. Wildflower Meadow Track: Two-mile track passing through open meadows filled with wildflowers during springtime making it perfect spot not only hiking but also photography enthusiasts who enjoy capturing nature's beauty at its best.

7. Rock Quarry Overlook Route: Short yet challenging route leading up to rock quarry overlook where you can get panoramic view of entire state forest area from above; involves climbing rocky terrains so recommended mainly experienced hikers.

8. Deer Run Hiking Trail: Four Mile circular path winding past old growth trees, moss covered rocks & small streams ; known sightings white tailed deer hence name.

9. Owl Hollow Walking Path: Easy walking path stretching across flat terrain under canopy mature hardwoods ideal leisurely walks family picnics owing numerous picnic spots available throughout course this trail.

10. Brushy Fork Streamside Trek: Three mile trek following alongside picturesque stream running deep within heart park provides ample chances spotting aquatic life forms like frogs turtles etc besides regular woodland creatures squirrels rabbits birds variety.

11. Bluff View Trail: A challenging 2-mile trail that ascends to a bluff overlooking the forest and surrounding area, offering stunning views especially during sunrise or sunset.

12. Wildlife Observation Loop: This is an easy one mile loop perfect for wildlife enthusiasts as it passes through habitats of various animals like foxes, raccoons and different bird species.

13. Poosey Ridge Hiking Path: Approximately five miles long path traversing along ridge line providing breathtaking vistas sprawling greenery below; includes few steep sections hence recommended intermediate advanced hikers.

Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews
write a review
Share On

Directions
1. Start by heading east on I:70 E.
2. Continue for approximately 50 miles until you reach exit 78B to merge onto US:65 N toward Marshall.
3. Stay on US:65 N for about 40 miles until you reach MO-116 W/US Hwy Business Route at Carrollton.
4. Take a left turn onto MO:116 W and continue driving west for around 25 miles.

At this point, you will have reached Poosey State Forest area but please note that it does not have an official entrance or visitor center with specific address information available online.

To explore the forest further:
5a) If coming from south via Highway D: Turn right (north) onto County Road SE Old Polk Rd and drive straight ahead into Poosey Conservation Area where trails are accessible within state forest boundaries as well;.
or
5b) If coming from north via Highway A: Drive past County Road NW Green Hills Rd intersection then take next right (eastward direction), which leads directly into Poosey Conservation Area offering access to various hiking trails throughout the state forest area.
Nearby Parks

state route ranger badge
Missouri
66

Missouri State Parks

X