Current River Conservation Area

Total Miles
10.4

Elevation

317.71 ft

Duration

0.75 Hours

Technical Rating

5

Moderate

Best Time

Spring, Summer, Fall

Trail Overview

The Current River Conservation was created by combining Deer Run, Carrs Creek, Cardareva and Paint Rock State Forests combining 28,000 acres. The trail starts as #1 on the map which is provided at the beginning of the trail. Current River Conservation trail leads you down an easy gravel road however there are two water crossings which may not be passable for any vehicle during heavy rains. There is a really well built shooting range called Deer Run which includes tables, trash cans, berms, and a big parking lot. Continuing along you will find a dispersed campsite with a fire ring, this is a perfect spot to end the day or continue into the conservation area to explore other trails. Wildlife in this area are all around to include hawks, deer, turkey vultures,, black bass and catfish. One of the most notable species to watch is the glow bugs. What a sight to see as they dance through the forest at night.

Photos of Current River Conservation Area

Current River Conservation Area
Current River Conservation Area

Difficulty

This is an easy gravel road that leads to two water crossings which can very on flow depth so a low clearance vehicle isn't advised.

History

The Current River Conservation Area is home to the Missouri Ozark Forest Ecosystem Project which is the most comprehensive forest management studies in North America, according to the Conservation packet. Here is a website on the history of the area. https://mdc.mo.gov/discover-nature/places/current-river-conservation-area

Technical Rating

5

Status Reports

Bryceski D
Apr 06, 2024
4x4
Open
Ran the whole trail nothing hard or difficult maybe after hard rains water crossing could become deep. Trail difficulty is incorrect definitely no more than a 2

Access Description

From Ellington, Missouri take highway 106 west then a left on spur 106. This will eventually turn into the Current River Conservation where you will find a sign with a plastic box with maps in it.

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