Chief River Wildlife Area
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 5, 2025
Chief River Wildlife Area is a popular destination in the state of Missouri for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
The area covers 6,021 acres and provides ample opportunities for hunting, fishing, bird watching, hiking, and camping. The area is located in the northwest part of Missouri, along the Missouri River.
One of the main reasons to visit Chief River Wildlife Area is to enjoy the diverse wildlife that can be found there. The area is home to a wide variety of species, including deer, turkey, quail, pheasant, duck, geese, and other small game. The Missouri River also brings in various fish species.
There are several specific points of interest to see in the area, including the Missouri River and the wetlands that make up a large portion of the wildlife area. Visitors can also explore the several hiking trails that wind through the woods and prairies.
Interesting facts about Chief River Wildlife Area include that it is managed by the Missouri Department of Conservation and was established in 1972. The area was named after a Native American chief who lived in the area in the early 1800s.
The best time of year to visit Chief River Wildlife Area depends on what activities you are interested in. Fall and winter are popular times for hunting, while spring and summer are ideal for fishing and hiking. Bird watching is a year-round activity, but spring and fall are the best times to see migratory birds.
Overall, Chief River Wildlife Area is an excellent destination for those looking to experience Missouri's natural beauty and wildlife.
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
Moose Lake Recreation Area Campground
Moose Lake Recreation Area
The Ballfield
Phipps Landing - St. Croix National Scenic River
Phipps Landing
Phipps