Save
You must be signed in to save park lists.
Your Park Lists
add New List
Add Photo
You must be signed in to add photos.
state route ranger badge
Missouri
54

Missouri State Parks

responsive menu icon
USA Parks
Missouri
Southeast Region
Dickens Valley State Forest
Bluebird © stateparks.com
Small Boy Fishing © stateparks.com
Gone fishin.
Search
Availability
Calendars
Availability Search
DICKENS VALLEY STATE FOREST
DICKENS VALLEY STATE FOREST
Dickens Valley State Forest, located in the heart of Missouri, is a captivating natural haven that mesmerizes visitors with its awe-inspiring beauty. Stretching across vast acres of land, this forest boasts a diverse ecosystem teeming with vibrant flora and fauna. Towering trees, lush meadows, and flowing streams create a picturesque landscape that invites adventurers and nature enthusiasts to explore its hidden treasures. With well-maintained trails meandering through the forest, visitors can embark on tranquil hikes, witness breathtaking waterfalls, or indulge in wildlife spotting. Dickens Valley State Forest truly offers a serene escape where one can immerse themselves in the untouched splendor of Missouri's wilderness.
History of the Area
Dickens Valley State Forest is a state forest located in Missouri, USA. While there is limited information available specifically about the history of this forest, an understanding of Missouri's general state forest system can provide some context.

Missouri's state forest system was established in the early 20th century as a way to protect and manage forested lands. Throughout the state, hundreds of individual state forest areas were established, with some being combined over time to form larger state forests. The purpose of these forests was primarily for conservation, timber management, wildlife habitat preservation, and recreational opportunities.

Dickens Valley State Forest likely came into existence as part of this larger state forest system. The forest may have been named after a notable individual or a place of historical significance, though detailed information about the specific naming is not readily available.

As part of the state forest system, Dickens Valley State Forest would have been managed by the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC), the state agency responsible for the stewardship of Missouri's fish, forests, and wildlife. The MDC would oversee the sustainable management of timber resources, wildlife populations, and the provision of recreational activities within the forest.
Nearby Vacation Rentals
Search for a vacation rental




Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews
write a review
Share On

Directions
1. Start by heading towards the city of Springfield.
2. From Springfield, take Highway 65 northbound for approximately 30 miles.
3. Take exit 82B to merge onto I:44 West/US-60 West toward Joplin/Tulsa.
4. Continue on I:44 West for about 20 miles until you reach Exit 61A-B-C toward MO-Z N/Chestnut Expressway/Kearney Street/Glenstone Avenue/Fair Grove/Northview/Battlefield Road/Springfield/Jacksonville/MO-D E/Rogersville/Ozark/Lambert's Cafe II (Exit numbers may vary).
5. Keep right at the fork and follow signs for Glenstone Ave North/Dickerson Park Zoo/Zoo Boulevard/West Bypass/Airport/Historic Route US66 East/Illinois St./Missouri Z:North/Evergreen Cemetery/Pleasant View Rd/VV-Southwest City/Stotts City/Shelby County Speedway/Highland Springs Country Club and merge onto N Kansas Expy/Glenstone Ave/Missouri ZZ S (signs for Historic U.S.-66 W/U.S.-160 W).
6. Continue straight on this road which will eventually become Farm Rd /State Hwy VV after crossing over Interstate highway.
7. Follow Farm Rd /State Hwy VV southward through Pleasant Hope town center then continue along it as it turns into a gravel road called Dickens Valley Road just past Pleasant Hope High School.
8. After driving around half mile down Dickens valley rd,you'll see an entrance sign indicating arrival at state forest.

state route ranger badge
Missouri
54

Missouri State Parks

X