Jackson County Parks & Recreation Department

 
Located just south of Swope Park, Blue River Glades Natural Area contains a rare limestone glade community – one of the northernmost occurrences of such a community in Missouri and the best example existing locally. Gnarled chinquapin oaks nearly 300 years old sit atop slab-like outcroppings of Bethany Falls limestone. A prairie-like flora of grasses and wildflowers provides rich color and texture through most of the year. This community is managed through periodic prescribed burning. The glade is threatened by several exotic plant species, especially shrub honeysuckle.

Regulations:

Hours: Dawn to dusk
Pets: On leash only

Directions:

From Highway 71 – head east on Gregory Boulevard. Where Gregory turns left at The Lake of the Woods, veer right onto Oldham Road. Take the very next right onto Blue River Road and continue for about 1.2 miles to the trailhead on your left.
From Interstate 435 – take the Gregory Boulevard. Exit and head west for approximately 1 mile. Gregory will turn left at the Lake of the Woods and then turn a sharp right at the Oldham intersection. Take a left here onto Oldham. Take the very next right onto Blue River Road and continue for about 1.2 miles to the trailhead (located on your left).
There is no parking lot, so you’ll need to park along the road.

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