If you want to experience a glorious and fulfilling vacation with a lot of nature activities such as biking, hiking, and horseback riding, visit the Busiek State Forest in Branson. In 1981, the state forest was named in honor of Dr. Urban and Erma Marie Busiek when the state purchased the first sections of the land from them. Busiek State Forest has an area of 2,505 acres which are all accessible for hiking, camping, biking, and more. Although this park doesn’t have spectacular rock formations or waterfalls, it does offer campsites and panoramic hilltop views of the Ozark.
Busiek State Forest which is now owned by the Missouri Department of Conservation, provides visitors multiple recreational opportunities. The state forest has a stream called Woods Fork Creek that runs through the middle of the forest. In spring time, the stream is cold and clear and around knee deep.
The park’s well-marked 18 miles trail system provides great fun for bicyclers, hikers, and horseback riders. At certain times of the year fur trapping and deer hunting is allowed in the forest. The elevation of the hills of the state forest is 980 feet to 1,200 feet above sea level on the mountaintops, so the uses of motorized vehicles are prohibited.
The state forest also features unstaffed shooting range and primitive camping at designated sites which is available by permit only. There is no potable water or amenities in the area. At the top of the hill, you will find a hidden secret treasure and a cemetery. No one is buried here for a long time. The headstones aren’t legible anymore because the cemetery was erected during the time of the civil war.
The Busiek State Forest also has two hiking trail systems, an 8-mile “West” trail system, and a 10-mile “East” trail system. Each trail system ranges from 2-4 miles each with three color-coded loop trails. The trails are for mixed use, which means open to mountain-biking, hiking, and equestrian use. If you are going to camp or hike in the state park, it is advisable to wear orange blaze.
Busiek State Forest and Wildlife Area has 18 miles of hiking trails, 9 campsites, and unsupervised shooting range. The state forest can be accessed through U.S. Highway 65, it is about 18 miles south of Springfield and 15 miles north of Branson. In the park, there are nine primitive designated campsites, all close to the eastern trail system. The state forest is actually close to the Mark Twain National Forest but they are separated by several private property tracts of land.
The state forest is home to several wildlife creatures and plants to keep environmentalists happy in their exciting and thrilling adventures. During spring time, dogwood and redbud trees practically bloom with flowers, giving the forested hills a pink, purple, and white hue. During summer, it is nice to enjoy the nature when you are under the shade of leafy trees.
If you are looking for a glorious vacation filled with nature-friendly activities such as biking, hiking, and horseback riding with the whole family, come to Busiek State Forest in Branson this spring season.
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