Posted in Missouri September 14, 2020 by

Hike This Ancient Forest In Missouri That’s Home To 500-Year-Old Trees

Missouri’s dotted with natural wonders, some that we may not even realize exist. If you’re up for a pretty laid back adventure that will give you a glimpse of trees that date back more than five centuries, you’ll definitely want to make your way to Allred Lake in Missouri. It’s one of those unique destinations that deserves a spot on your to do list.

We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
Don’t expect a typical hike when you head over to Allred Lake Natural Area, near Neelyville, to see ancient Cyprus trees that are more than 500 years old. The lake is also home to overcup oak and water locust.
Google Maps
From the parking lot at the natural area, you’ll follow a short trail that includes a boardwalk, which leads you to Allred Lake.
Flickr/Nicholas Turland
The lake offers a reminder of when Southeast Missouri predominately consisted of swamps and bottomland forests. The Missouri Department of Conversation calls Allred Lake “one of Missouri’s best and last cypress ponds.”
Flickr/Nicholas Turland
Allred Lake may even remind you of the swamps you would see in Louisiana or other gulf coast states you may have visited. Bring your camera along, so you can capture the unique scene that awaits.
Flickr/Nicholas Turland
The masterpiece of the lake is, of course, the more than 500-year old ancient bald cypress trees, which have endured, in part, because they hold up well when saturated.
Flickr/Nicholas Turland
As you admire the ancient trees, listen for the sounds of green tree frogs, particularly vocal during the spring. Allred Lake is also home to wood ducks and barred owls.
Flickr/Nicholas Turland
Fishing is not allowed in the lake. However, if you take a peek in the water, you might catch a glimpse of the cypress darter or the taillight shiner, both endangered species.
Flickr/Nicholas Turland
For more information, check out the official website of the Missouri Department of Conservation. (You’ll find directions to the lake and a map.)
Flickr/Nicholas Turland

Have you been to Allred Lake in Missouri? Did you see the ancient trees? Share your experience in the comments! If you’ve not been to Big Oak Tree State Park in East Prairie, you’ll definitely want to visit this ancient forest.

Address: Allred Lake, Coon Island Township, MO 63954, USA