Busiek State Forest & Wildlife Area
18 Miles of Trails & Outdoor Adventure
Saddle Up, Hit the Trails, & Find Your Wild Side
Established in 1981 and named after Dr. Urban and Erma Marie Busiek, this wildlife area was initially developed when 740 acres were purchased from their son, Dr. Paul Busiek. A portion of the purchase price was generously donated back to the Missouri Department of Conservation. Over the years, the area has expanded to 2,502 acres, offering a wide range of recreational opportunities. Conveniently located between Springfield and Branson, Busiek State Forest is a haven for nature enthusiasts.
Recreational Activities
With more than 18 miles of well-marked trails, visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and bird watching. The trail system is divided into two main sections: a 10-mile East trail and an 8-mile West trail, each offering multiple color-coded loops ranging from 2 to 4 miles. These trails guide explorers through the scenic Camp Creek and Woods Fork valleys, featuring elevation changes from 980 to 1,200 feet. The trails are designated for non-motorized use, preserving the peace and natural beauty of the area.
Saddle Up, Hit the Trails, & Find Your Wild Side
Established in 1981 and named after Dr. Urban and Erma Marie Busiek, this wildlife area was initially developed when 740 acres were purchased from their son, Dr. Paul Busiek. A portion of the purchase price was generously donated back to the Missouri Department of Conservation. Over the years, the area has expanded to 2,502 acres, offering a wide range of recreational opportunities. Conveniently located between Springfield and Branson, Busiek State Forest is a haven for nature enthusiasts.
Recreational Activities
With more than 18 miles of well-marked trails, visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and bird watching. The trail system is divided into two main sections: a 10-mile East trail and an 8-mile West trail, each offering multiple color-coded loops ranging from 2 to 4 miles. These trails guide explorers through the scenic Camp Creek and Woods Fork valleys, featuring elevation changes from 980 to 1,200 feet. The trails are designated for non-motorized use, preserving the peace and natural beauty of the area.
Highlighted Trails
Nestled in the heart of the Ozarks, seven small towns offer diverse indoor and outdoor activities for all ages. Conveniently located between Springfield and Branson and just off Route 66, Christian County invites you to explore scenic trails, enjoy local attractions, and experience community events.
West-Side Trails
These trails begin near the shooting range parking lot and provide some of the most rugged and scenic views of the Ozarks.
- Purple Trail: 3.6-mile loop, challenging terrain
- White Trail: 4.43-mile loop, challenging terrain
- Orange Trail: 5.71-mile loop, challenging terrain
East-Side Trails
The East-side trails feature year-round streams and beautiful vistas, perfect for hikers and bird watchers alike.
- Red Trail: 3.6-mile loop, easy terrain
- Yellow Trail: 4.33-mile loop, moderate terrain (with a shorter cutoff option)
- Blue Trail: 2.1-mile loop, challenging terrain
For a great day hike, try the White and Purple trails on the west side or the Red and Yellow trails on the east side. These trails offer a range of difficulty and stunning views, with opportunities for bird watching throughout.
Busiek State Forest offers hunting during designated seasons for deer (muzzleloader and archery), turkey, bear, and squirrel. Limited fur trapping is also permitted. Bird watchers will enjoy spotting the many species that make their home in this area, especially along the peaceful trails. During hunting season, hikers are advised to wear blaze orange for safety.
For shooting enthusiasts, the area includes an unsupervised firearms shooting range for rifle and pistol practice. The range is closed for maintenance on Mondays but open the rest of the week for public use.
Along one of the trails, you’ll find the historic Carter Cemetery, established in 1891. This small, inactive graveyard contains 29 documented graves, offering a quiet and reflective stop for hikers. Located about a half-mile walk from the nearest parking area, it’s a unique spot to rest while exploring the area’s history and natural beauty.
Camping is available with eight primitive, tent-only campsites. A special use permit is required and can be obtained by contacting the Southwest Regional Office at (417) 895-6880. Campers should come prepared, as there is no potable water or modern facilities at the campsites.
For those looking for a longer adventure, Busiek’s trails are also suitable for overnight backpacking trips. Be sure to plan ahead and bring plenty of supplies, as there are no potable water sources along the trails.
Visitor Tips
- Bring a trail map, compass, and ample water, especially for extended hikes
- Wear blaze orange during hunting season to stay visible and safe
- Be prepared for a primitive experience, as there are no modern amenities available
- For more information on rules and regulations, visit: Missouri Department of Conservation
Quick Facts
- Activities: Hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, bird watching, camping, shooting, and hunting
- Location: Off U.S. Highway 65, 15 miles north of Branson, 18 miles south of Springfield
- Features: 18 miles of trails, primitive campsites, an unsupervised shooting range, and historic Carter Cemetery
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