Rose Pond Conservation Area

About this Area

County
Clark
For more information call
(573) 248-2530
Total Acres
381.9

This 379-acre area consists mostly of bottomlands associated with Honey Creek, which empties into the Mississippi River. Approximately 38 acres are marshland. Rose Pond is believed to be a very small remnant of a once extensive marsh system associated with the mouth of the Des Moines River. A deep, sandy soil found here is assumed to have been deposited by the Des Moines River. Sand prairies were once found here and are now being restored.

Rose Pond Conservation Area was purchased as critical habitat for several wetland species. The management emphasis encourages healthy populations of wetland wildlife and provides permanent emergent marsh habitat while offering the public compatible outdoor recreational opportunities. As part of the amphibian and reptile management regime, pooled water on the area is fishless. The best fishing opportunities lie within Honey Creek. Management techniques include construction of shallow water habitat, establishment of native prairie plant species, restoration of original soil hydrology, protection of wildlife in refuges and construction of critical wildlife habitat.

The Conservation Department purchased the bulk of this property in 1983. In 1984, David and Charlotte Fox donated 27 acres, with the stipulation that it be designated a wildlife refuge. That request was granted.

Things to do when you visit: 
  • Hunting
    • Deer,
    • Dove,
    • Quail
  • Waterfowl Hunting
    • Open Hunting
  • Camping
    • Designated Camping Sites
  • Fishing
    • Catfish,
    • Crappie,
    • Sunfish,
    • White Bass
  • Entry PointEntry Point
  • Parking LotParking Lot
  • BoundaryBoundary
  • MDC Road - ServiceMDC Road - Service
  • Dove FieldDove Field

Hours of Operation

Area Hours
Sunday 4:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Monday 4:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Tuesday 4:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Wednesday 4:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Thursday 4:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Friday 4:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Saturday 4:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Directions
From Wayland, take Highway 27/61 south 7 miles, then Route F east 2.50 miles, then Route P north 2 miles, then on gravel road 317west 0.25 miles, then on gravel road 304north 0.50 miles.
Area Regulations
Seasonal Hunting and Fishing Information

Rose Pond CA

Sunflower food plot at Rose Pond CA
Rose Pond CA