Garrison Rock Resource Management Unit: A Natural and Historical Haven

Garrison Rock Resource Management Unit, a 302-acre natural area managed by Wapello County Conservation, invites visitors to explore a diverse landscape rich in history and natural beauty. Located a few miles southeast of Ottumwa, Iowa, the area is characterized by its high-quality oak and hickory forests, restored prairies, and a prominent sandstone outcrop known as Garrison Rock, which overlooks the Des Moines River valley. The area has significant historical roots, serving as a gathering place for Native Americans and one of the first sites occupied by European settlers in Wapello County. In 1842, the U.S. Army briefly established Fort Sanford here, consisting of eight cabins and a trading post, though it was abandoned after only a year. Visitors can explore the area's past at the Pioneer Cemetery, located on a bluff top with views of the Des Moines River. Another point of interest is Horse Thief Cave, rumored to have been used by Jesse James to hide stolen horses. Although the cave collapsed many years ago, the trail leading to it is still a popular hiking destination. Today, Garrison Rock is a prime spot for outdoor activities such as hiking, wildlife viewing, photography, and hunting. The Chief Wapello Trail, a 1.7-mile path, offers a scenic route through the area's diverse terrain, including steep elevation changes. The area is home to a variety of plant and animal life, making it ideal for wildlife observation and photography.