Fans of the famed comic strip "Beetle Bailey" should include this 2,212-acre Missouri Department of Conservation area on their travel schedule. This site was the location of Camp Crowder Army Base during World War II and it was this site that gave cartoonist Mort Walker the inspiration for "Camp Swampy," the mythical military base that figures prominently in the cartoon strip. This link to the comic strip is honored in the Crowder Area's "Mort Walker Trail," an 11-mile hiking/bicycling/horse trail. Hunting for all major game species is permitted in season. Primitive camping (no amenities provided) is permitted on the area, except for seasonal closures for some hunting activities (call 417-451-4158 for details). Dogs must be leashed or confined when not being used for training or hunting purposes. There are no fishable streams or ponds on the area. There is an unmanned shooting range and an archery range on the area.

This conservation area contains 3,515 acres at the junction of Boone, Howard and Randolph counties. The gentle, rolling terrain is 75 percent forested. Fields of native warm-season grasses and row crops are scattered amonth the forest. The 48-acre lake has an ADA-accessible boat ramp, fishing dock and restroom. Hikers, bikers and equestrians should check out the 12.5 mile Moniteau Wilderness Trail. There are also 24 primitive campsites on the area.

Located just south of Kirksville on the west side of Route 63, the Northeast Regional Office offers those interested in fish, forest and wildlife the opportunity to learn more about our natural resources. Interactive exhibits, taxidermy mounts, a large freshwater aquarium and a trail await those interested in the outdoors. Those looking for information or publications on Missouri's outdoor resources will find the free publication area, as well as the small nature shop where books, cassette/CDs and DVDs are availble for shopppers. You can also purchase your Missouri Hunting and Fishing permits at the office.

This 840-acre area owned by the Missouri Department of Conservation is a mostly forested area that provides both hunting and nature-viewing opportunities. Hunting for all major game species is permitted in season. Trails over parts of the area provide hiking and nature photography opportunities. Horseback riding is permitted on designated trails and service roads. Primitive camping (no amenities provided) is allowed on the area. Bicycling is allowed on designated trails. Dogs must be leashed or confined when not used for hunting or training purposes. There is a 14-station walk-and-shoot archery range. There are no fishable streams or ponds on the area.