Rockwoods Reservation
About This Area
Rockwoods Reservation in western St. Louis County was established in 1938 by a group of St. Louis businessmen headed by A.P. Greensfelder. Other gifts and purchases have increased the area to its present size of 1,880 acres. Today, Rockwoods Reservation is operated as an area for conservation education. We encourage day-use by the general public, school groups, and organizations.
Rockwoods Reservation harbors a rich diversity of plant and animal life as well as springs, caves, and rock formations. Cool, moist, north facing ravines and lush creek bottoms contrast with the nearby arid, rocky ridge tops, and south slopes. The terrain is reminiscent of the Ozark hills and, indeed, many plants and animals found in hill country are also found here.
Interpretive signs throughout the area point out special features or demonstration areas, such as butterfly gardening, bird feeding, prairie habitat, mining, and quarrying and the history of lime kilns.
The Conservation Education Center, which is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday (closed Saturday and Sunday), contains exhibits and information about the forest, fish, and wildlife resources of Missouri. Programs are available by advance registration for school field trips and other organized groups.
