Scrivner Road Conservation Area Primitive Camping Area

For Missourians seeking an authentic outdoor experience away from the bustling crowds and developed campgrounds, the Scrivner Road Conservation Area Primitive Camping Area offers a genuine immersion into the state's natural beauty. Managed by the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC), this area is designed for those who appreciate a more rugged and self-reliant approach to camping, focusing on the pristine environment and the diverse recreational opportunities it provides.

Unlike many commercial campgrounds with extensive amenities, Scrivner Road Conservation Area emphasizes a "leave no trace" philosophy, encouraging campers to respect the environment and minimize their impact. This primitive setting allows visitors to truly disconnect and enjoy the tranquility of Missouri's outdoors, whether it's under a canopy of stars or alongside the gentle sounds of nature. It's a place where the focus shifts from convenience to connection with the wilderness.

The conservation area is not just about camping; it's a multi-use outdoor haven, offering a range of activities that appeal to hunters, anglers, hikers, and shooting enthusiasts alike. Its management for wildlife habitat and public recreation ensures that the natural resources are conserved while providing ample opportunities for outdoor pursuits, making it a valuable asset for local Missouri residents.

Scrivner Road Conservation Area Primitive Camping Area is located in Moreau Township, MO 65074, USA, specifically in Cole County, approximately three miles south of Russellville. The exact address often refers to the broader conservation area. For those navigating, the Missouri Department of Conservation provides directions: from Russellville, take Route AA south, then Scrivner Road east, then Scott Road north for about 0.7 miles to reach the area.

This location makes it relatively accessible for residents from central Missouri, including communities like Jefferson City and Columbia. The journey typically involves traveling on paved roads before transitioning to possibly less maintained conservation area roads as you approach the primitive camping spots. Due to its primitive nature, campers should be prepared for varying road conditions within the conservation area, especially during inclement weather. The remote feel of the area is part of its charm, offering a true escape from urban and suburban environments. While it provides a secluded experience, its proximity to smaller towns ensures that essential supplies are not too far away, blending the best of both wild and accessible outdoor recreation for Missourians.

As a "primitive" camping area, Scrivner Road Conservation Area focuses on natural experiences rather than developed amenities. Services offered are minimal, emphasizing self-sufficiency:

• Primitive Campsites: Designated areas for camping, typically without specific marked sites, electricity, water hookups, or refuse service. Campers are expected to pack in and pack out all their belongings, including trash.
• Vault/Pit Toilets: Basic restroom facilities are typically available within conservation areas for public use, though their exact proximity to primitive camping spots may vary.
• Public Fishing: The area features Winegar Lake and more than two miles of South Moreau Creek frontage, offering opportunities for fishing with specific regulations for largemouth bass, channel catfish, crappie, and other fish.
• Hunting and Trapping: Permitted activities in accordance with statewide regulations for various species, including deer (archery and firearms, with archery antlerless permits only), bear (archery and firearms), turkey (archery and firearms), rabbit, and squirrel.
• Target Shooting Range: The conservation area boasts a target shooting range with a shotgun range and 25-, 50-, and 100-yard rifle and pistol ranges.
• Hiking Trails: An 8.5-mile Moreau Creek trail system provides access to most of the area, suitable for hiking, biking, and horseback riding (though specific restrictions may apply during hunting seasons or for certain trail conditions).

Scrivner Road Conservation Area stands out for several key features and highlights that appeal to outdoor enthusiasts in Missouri:

• Expansive Natural Area: Spanning 919 acres, the area offers vast stretches of natural habitat, including woodlands, glades, and prairies, managed for wildlife and public recreation.
• Diverse Ecosystems: A former cattle farm, the area is undergoing restoration to native habitats, with management including periodic prescribed burning and food plots to provide high-quality wildlife habitat.
• Winegar Lake: A central feature of the area, this nine-acre lake provides excellent fishing opportunities, adhering to specific length and creel limits.
• South Moreau Creek Frontage: Over two miles of creek frontage offer additional fishing, wildlife viewing, and access to a natural water source within the area.
• Multi-Use Trail System: The 8.5-mile Moreau Creek trail system is a significant highlight, accommodating hikers, bikers, and horseback riders, providing extensive exploration opportunities through varied terrain.
• Public Shooting Range: The presence of a well-equipped shooting range is a distinct feature, offering facilities for shotgun, rifle, and pistol practice, which is a significant draw for firearms enthusiasts.
• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: With restored native habitats and food plots, the area attracts a variety of wildlife, providing excellent opportunities for birdwatching and observing local fauna.
• True Primitive Camping: For those seeking a raw, undeveloped camping experience, the absence of amenities and emphasis on self-reliance are key highlights, promoting a deeper connection with nature.

As a primitive camping area managed by the Missouri Department of Conservation, Scrivner Road Conservation Area does not typically offer commercial promotions or special offers in the way a private campground might. Conservation areas often provide free or low-cost access as part of their public service mission to promote outdoor recreation and conservation.

• Free Primitive Camping: The primary "offer" is the availability of free primitive camping, which is a significant advantage for budget-conscious campers. Unlike many state parks or private campgrounds, there are no reservation fees or nightly charges for primitive sites.
• Public Access to Activities: The various recreational opportunities, including hiking, fishing, hunting, and the use of the shooting range, are generally available to the public under the state's conservation regulations and licensing requirements (e.g., fishing and hunting permits).

Any "specials" would typically align with broader MDC initiatives, such as free fishing days or specific hunting seasons. Visitors should always consult the official Missouri Department of Conservation website or contact their regional office for the most current information regarding rules, regulations, and any specific opportunities at Scrivner Road Conservation Area.

For information regarding Scrivner Road Conservation Area Primitive Camping Area, the primary contact is through the Missouri Department of Conservation, as they manage the area.

Address: Moreau Township, MO 65074, USA (The area is located in Cole County, about three miles south of Russellville. For direct navigation, follow directions from Russellville: Route AA south, then Scrivner Road east, then Scott Road north for 0.7 miles.)

General inquiries for the Missouri Department of Conservation Central Regional Office (which covers this area) can be directed to:

Phone: (573) 815-7900

For broader MDC inquiries or TTY services:

Phone: (573) 751-4115 (Voice)

TTY: 800-735-2966

Scrivner Road Conservation Area Primitive Camping Area is an ideal destination for Missouri locals seeking an authentic and unfettered outdoor experience. Its nature as a primitive camping area, managed by the Missouri Department of Conservation, means it offers free access to a vast natural landscape, making it an incredibly budget-friendly option for weekend getaways or longer wilderness explorations. For residents of central Missouri, particularly those in Cole County and nearby areas, the conservation area is conveniently located, providing a quick escape from daily life without extensive travel.

The area's diverse recreational opportunities cater to a wide range of local outdoor enthusiasts. Anglers can enjoy the fishing opportunities in Winegar Lake and South Moreau Creek, while hunters can utilize designated areas during open seasons. The extensive trail system offers a fantastic resource for hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders looking to explore Missouri's varied terrain. Furthermore, the presence of a public shooting range adds a unique amenity for local firearms enthusiasts, providing a safe and regulated space for practice.

For Missourians who value self-sufficiency and the "leave no trace" principle, Scrivner Road offers the perfect environment to practice these outdoor ethics. It’s a place to truly disconnect from modern conveniences, hone outdoor skills, and immerse oneself in the tranquility of nature. This emphasis on rugged, natural camping, combined with the diverse recreational offerings, makes Scrivner Road Conservation Area an invaluable resource for locals looking to experience the wild side of Missouri without venturing too far from home. It's an accessible slice of untamed Missouri, perfect for creating lasting outdoor memories.