Diamond Grove Prairie Conservation Area

     Yesterday the kiddo and I ran to Joplin to sell some weight equipment. At least once a week we try to get out and hike. Since she is so small long distances are out of the question but being outside is being outside. Near Joplin there is one of the MDC's excellent Conservation areas called Diamond Grove Prairie. It is large tract of intact tallgrass prairie, which at one time dominated the area but now have become mostly overgrown; this one is maintained through prescribed burns and the removal of woody vegetation. Many rare species are to be found in the area, especially plants and birds. While we did not look for any of these specifically this time(it is hard to do much with 2 year old besides walk, look around, and try to make sure she does not disappear in the grass), I would like to return with a guide and some time to look for some of these species. There are no "trails" but there is an access road from the parking lot that runs along the south side of the area and gives good views. It was not completely clear of vegetation, but it was doable in sandals and shorts. We did not get the chance to walk the entire trail because the little one got hot, tired, and itchy from all the grass and temperatures in the 80s.
Missouri Department of Conservation Page and Map.