Located near the city of Joplin, Wildcat Glades Natural Area showcases an excellent example of chert glades. These glades, known for their thin, dry soil, are home to many different plant and animal species. Here, you will see many of the cacti and moss that grow in this area, including the Prickly Pear,most prevalent in this area. Historically, large wildfires aided in the vegetation management of glades. (In present day, prescribed burns are conducted to accomplish these goals.)
Visitors will find a PARKING LOT off of Castle Drive. Please use this to park your vehicle and dispose of any trash that you pick up in trash can located here as well.
The Conservation Area is open from Dawn to Dusk.
This particular area of the Wildcat Glades includes lots of Cacti, so this one is NOT FLIP-FLOP FRIENDLY!!!
Just a brief walk from the parking area, this one will allow you to see a few of the different types of erosion that led to places like the nearby Mother's Nature's Crack and Joplin Cave.
BYOP
CITO
Return cache as you found it, please!
FTF gets a great choice of Swag!
Missouri Department of Conservation Special Use Permit #1208
