State Preserve Pilot Knob
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 5, 2025
State Preserve Pilot Knob, located in the state of Missouri, is a fascinating destination offering visitors a variety of reasons to visit.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
This summary has been compiled by verifying information from multiple independent sources to ensure accuracy.
1. Reasons to Visit:
- Historical Significance: Pilot Knob played a significant role during the American Civil War as a strategic location and witnessed a major battle in 1864. History enthusiasts can explore this important piece of American history.
- Natural Beauty: The preserve boasts stunning natural landscapes, including a prominent peak, dense forests, and unique geological formations, providing ample opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and photography.
- Biodiversity: Featuring diverse ecosystems, Pilot Knob is home to a wide range of flora and fauna, making it an excellent site for nature lovers and birdwatchers.
- Outdoor Recreation: With multiple hiking trails and scenic overlooks, visitors can engage in activities like hiking, picnicking, and enjoying the serene surroundings.
2. Points of Interest:
- Pilot Knob: The main attraction is the namesake peak, Pilot Knob, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. A trail leads to the summit, providing an exceptional hiking experience.
- Civil War Sites: Explore remnants of the Civil War, such as Fort Davidson Historic Site, where the Battle of Pilot Knob took place. The visitor center displays artifacts and provides historical information about the battle.
- Susan N. McCollum Memorial Trail: This 2.5-mile loop trail guides visitors through the preserve, offering scenic views, wildlife spotting opportunities, and a chance to immerse in the natural beauty of the area.
3. Interesting Facts:
- Pilot Knob is an extinct volcano, and its unique geological formation is attributed to volcanic activity from millions of years ago.
- The Battle of Pilot Knob was fought between Union forces and Confederate troops led by General Sterling Price. Despite being outnumbered, the Union forces successfully defended the fort for several hours before retreating.
- The area surrounding Pilot Knob is known for its rich iron ore deposits, which played a pivotal role in the region's economic development during the 19th century.
4. Best Time to Visit:
The best time to visit State Preserve Pilot Knob in Missouri is during the spring and fall seasons. Spring offers vibrant blooms, while fall showcases beautiful foliage. Mild temperatures and comfortable weather during these seasons make outdoor activities more enjoyable. It is advisable to check the preserve's official website or contact local visitor centers for up-to-date information on closures and other considerations.
Weather Forecast
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
Pilot Knob State Park Campground
Pammel Park Campground
McIntosh Woods State Park Campground
Thorpe County Park
Thorpe Park Campground
Elk Creek Marsh WMA
State Preserve Pilot Knob
Merrick City Park
Brunsvold-Haugen Timber Area
Ventura Access County Park
Ventura City Park