Pioneer Ridge Nature Area

The topography is rolling with the primary vegetation type consisting of relatively mature oak/hickory timber and open grass ridge tops. An effort is underway to convert all of the non-native pasture grasses to diverse native prairie as well as restore oak savanna plant communities. With Pioneer Ridge Nature Center on site, a major focus of this area is educating both youth and adults in environmental and natural resource management issues. Primitive and electric campsites are available in a small campground. The area also has two fully furnished, modern log cabins, and two camping cabins available for rent all year. An extensive trail system allows users to traverse this beautiful area by foot, bike or horseback.

Location

Six miles south of Ottumwa on Hwy 63

Acres

995

Site Amenities

Nature Center with interpretive displays and programming, a half mile paved handicapped trail, two open shelters with picnic tables, grills, water and restrooms, over 12 miles of multi-use trails, four fishing ponds and a bird observation blind. Two modern log cabins and two camping cabins are available for rent year round. Nine (9) electric campsites and three (3) primitive campsites are available in small campground.

Reservations can be made on my.countyparks.com 

Recreational Activities

• Camping
• Environmental Education Programming
• Picnicking
• Hiking
• Biking
• Horseback Riding
• Fishing
• Shelter rentals for special events
  • Weddings
  • Reunions
  • Meetings
  • Social gatherings
• Education Garden
• Public Hunting in selected areas
• Wildlife Viewing, Photography

Classification

Multiple Use Area

Acquired

1977: Ayers Addition 2012

Location