Summary
Lester Sitzes III Bois D'Arc Wildlife Management Area is a 4,245-acre conservation area located in the state of Missouri, USA. The area is named after Dr. Lester Sitzes, who was a respected wildlife biologist and conservationist in the state. There are several good reasons to visit the area, including its diverse wildlife, scenic beauty, and recreational opportunities.
The conservation area is home to a variety of wildlife, including white-tailed deer, turkey, quail, rabbit, squirrel, and many other species of birds and small mammals. Visitors can explore the area's forests, fields, and wetlands to observe these animals in their natural habitats. There are also several hiking trails throughout the area that offer great opportunities for bird watching and wildlife photography.
One of the unique features of the Dr. Lester Sitzes III Bois D'Arc Wildlife Management Area is its historic buildings. The area was once a working ranch, and several of the original buildings still stand, including a historic barn and a stone cabin that was used as a hunting lodge. These buildings offer a glimpse into the area's rich history and add to its charm and character.
Visitors to the wildlife management area can also enjoy a range of recreational activities, including hunting, fishing, and camping. The best time of year to visit depends on the specific activity you're interested in. Hunting season typically runs from September through January, while fishing is best in the spring and fall. Camping is available year-round, but visitors should be aware that the area can get very hot and humid in the summer months.
Overall, the Dr. Lester Sitzes III Bois D'Arc Wildlife Management Area is a great destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Its diverse wildlife, historic buildings, and recreational opportunities make it a must-see destination in Missouri.
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Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
Related References
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
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Hervey Access Camping
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Fair City RV Park
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Allens Ferry at Little River
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