Little Prairie Conservation Area: A Natural Escape

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Discover a natural oasis near Rolla, Missouri, with hiking trails, fishing, and diverse ecosystems at Little Prairie Conservation Area.

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Little Prairie Conservation Area

Little Prairie Conservation Area, near Rolla, Missouri, offers a 342-acre natural retreat with a diverse landscape of woodlands, grasslands, and a 97-acre lake, Towell Lake. It's a popular destination for fishing, hiking, birdwatching, and enjoying the outdoors.

A brief summary to Little Prairie Conservation Area

Rolla, Missouri, 65401, US
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Monday 4 am-10 pm
Tuesday 4 am-10 pm
Wednesday 4 am-10 pm
Thursday 4 am-10 pm
Friday 4 am-10 pm
Saturday 4 am-10 pm
Sunday 4 am-10 pm

Local tips

Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best chances to see wildlife.
Bring insect repellent, especially during the warmer months, to protect against ticks and mosquitoes.
Wear sturdy shoes suitable for hiking on potentially uneven or muddy trails.
Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic picnic spots within the conservation area.
Check the Missouri Department of Conservation website for any alerts, closures, or special events before your visit.

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Getting There

Driving

From Rolla, take the north outer road of I-44 east for about 5 miles, then turn north onto Route RA. Continue on Route RA for approximately one mile. Look for the marked turn-ins for Towell Lake at Little Prairie Conservation Area shortly after passing a mobile home community. There are three parking areas available. Parking is free.

Discover more about Little Prairie Conservation Area

Escape to the serene beauty of Little Prairie Conservation Area, a 342-acre haven located near Rolla, Missouri. This conservation area, acquired in 1963, features a diverse landscape including woodlands, restored grasslands, and the scenic 97-acre Towell Lake. Originally named Little Prairie Lake, Towell Lake was created by damming a tributary of the Bourbeuse River and was later renamed to honor William E. Towell, a Phelps County native and former director of the Missouri Department of Conservation.Visitors can explore the 40-acre Heilbrunn Prairie, a remnant prairie showcasing diverse flora. A three-mile hiking trail winds through the area, providing opportunities to observe native plant and animal species. Towell Lake is the main attraction, offering fishing from the courtesy dock, lakeshore, or by boat. Anglers can catch largemouth bass, bluegill, redear sunfish, crappie, and channel catfish. Paddle and prop-powered boats are welcome, but water skiing and swimming are not permitted.Little Prairie Conservation Area provides three parking areas equipped with picnic tables and benches. It's an ideal spot for a leisurely trip into nature, offering an easily accessible setting for outdoor recreation. The area is open year-round from 4 AM to 10 PM, allowing visitors to witness the changing seasons. Whether you're interested in hiking, birdwatching, or simply relaxing by the lake, Little Prairie Conservation Area offers a peaceful retreat from the everyday grind.