Hell Creek Natural Area

Hell Creek Natural Area Info

 County: Stone
 Division: Ozark Mountains
 Acres: 261
 Year Added: 1985

Downloads

 County Locator
 Boundary Map

Located at the boundary of the Springfield and on Salem Plateaus of the Ozark Mountains, Hell Creek Natural Area supports populations of the Hell Creek Cave crayfish and the gray myotis, both federally endangered species. Most of Hell Creek Cave is wet year-round, with many of its passages flooded during periods of high rainfall. Hell Creek Cave is considered an example of a "solution channel" or "tunnel cave." Hell Creek, which flows through the cave, is spring fed and eventually empties into the White River. Hills above the cave support a diverse oak-hickory forest.

Directions

From Mountain View (junction of State Highways 9 and 66) go east 0.6 mile on State Highway 9 to its junction with State Highway 14. Turn left (north) on State Highway 9 and go 1.3 miles to Herpel Road. Go about 4.9 miles (bearing left at 4.0 and 4.6 miles) and turn left. At Mountain View water tank, turn right and follow to natural area sign. Caution: public access may be restricted from time to time by a neighboring landowner's locked gate. (Directions via Google)

Hunting

Hunting is not permitted on this natural area.