10 Tips to Keep Your Outdoor Gear in Working Order and Well Organized

Camping Gear - It's expensive to buy, make it last.

Maintaining and organizing your outdoor gear is crucial for ensuring it remains functional and ready for your next adventure. Whether you’re into camping, hiking, or fishing, proper care and organization of your equipment can prolong its lifespan and enhance your outdoor experience. Here are ten essential tips to help you keep your outdoor gear in top condition and well-organized.

1. Clean Your Gear After Each Use

Camping Gear:

• Tents: Shake out debris, wipe down the interior, and ensure it’s completely dry before storage to prevent mold and mildew.
• Sleeping Bags: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning. Usually, a gentle wash and thorough drying are recommended.

Hiking Gear:

• Backpacks: Empty and shake out any dirt or crumbs. Spot clean stains and air out the backpack to remove odors.

Fishing Gear:

• Rods and Reels: Rinse with fresh water to remove dirt and salt, especially if used in saltwater. Lubricate moving parts as recommended.

2. Store Gear in a Cool, Dry Place

Camping Gear:

• Avoid storing tents, sleeping bags, and other camping items in damp basements or hot attics. A climate-controlled environment is ideal.

Hiking Gear:

• Keep backpacks and hiking boots in a dry area to prevent mold and deterioration.

Fishing Gear:

• Store rods vertically in a cool, dry place to avoid warping. Keep tackle boxes and other equipment out of direct sunlight.

3. Use Proper Storage Solutions

Camping Gear:

• Use storage bins and labeled containers for small items like cooking utensils, lanterns, and first aid kits.

Hiking Gear:

• Install hooks or shelves in your storage area to hang or organize backpacks, hats, and walking sticks.

Fishing Gear:

• Invest in a tackle box with compartments for lures, hooks, and lines. Consider a rod rack to keep fishing rods organized and safe.

4. Regularly Inspect Your Equipment

Camping Gear:

• Check tents for tears or holes and repair them promptly. Inspect sleeping bags for wear and tear.

Hiking Gear:

• Examine backpacks for broken zippers or straps and fix them. Ensure hiking boots are free from significant damage and still provide good support.

Fishing Gear:

• Look for frayed fishing lines and replace them. Inspect rod guides and reels for damage and wear.

5. Follow Manufacturer’s Maintenance Guidelines

Camping Gear:

• Adhere to the cleaning and maintenance instructions provided by the manufacturers for tents, stoves, and sleeping bags.

Hiking Gear:

• Follow care instructions for technical fabrics used in backpacks and clothing to maintain their functionality.

Fishing Gear:

• Regularly service your reels and follow the maintenance procedures recommended by the manufacturer.

6. Dry Everything Thoroughly

Camping Gear:

• After washing or exposure to rain, ensure all camping gear, especially tents and sleeping bags, is thoroughly dried to prevent mildew.

Hiking Gear:

• Dry boots and backpacks completely after hikes, especially if they got wet.

Fishing Gear:

• Make sure rods, reels, and other equipment are dry before storing them to avoid rust and corrosion.

7. Organize by Activity

Camping Gear:

• Keep all your camping gear in one designated area. Use clear bins to store items and label each bin by its contents (e.g., cooking gear, sleeping gear).

Hiking Gear:

• Allocate a specific spot for all hiking equipment, making it easy to grab what you need quickly.

Fishing Gear:

• Store fishing gear separately from other outdoor equipment to keep everything easily accessible and organized.

8. Use Silica Gel Packs

Camping Gear:

• Place silica gel packs in storage bins to absorb moisture and prevent mold growth.

Hiking Gear:

• Add silica gel packs to your backpack storage area to keep items dry and free from dampness.

Fishing Gear:

• Put silica gel packs in tackle boxes and rod storage areas to protect against moisture damage.

9. Create a Checklist

Camping Gear:

• Develop a comprehensive checklist for your camping gear. Regularly review and update it to ensure you have everything you need and that it’s in working order.

Hiking Gear:

• Maintain a checklist for hiking trips, including essentials like water bottles, maps, first aid kits, and multi-tools.

Fishing Gear:

• Have a checklist for your fishing gear to ensure you don’t forget crucial items like bait, tackle, and safety gear.

10. Educate Yourself on Proper Use and Care

Camping Gear:

• Stay informed about the best practices for using and maintaining your camping gear. Attend workshops or watch tutorials if necessary.

Hiking Gear:

• Learn about the latest gear innovations and proper care techniques to extend the life of your hiking equipment.

Fishing Gear:

• Understand the proper usage and care for your fishing gear by reading manuals, watching videos, and seeking advice from experienced anglers.

Conclusion

Keeping your outdoor gear in excellent condition and well-organized doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By following these ten tips, you’ll ensure that your camping, hiking, and fishing equipment remains functional and ready for your next adventure. Proper care and organization not only extend the life of your gear but also enhance your overall outdoor experience, allowing you to focus on enjoying nature with confidence. Happy adventuring!

How are conservation areas important to you?

The Missouri Department of Conservation is in the process of updating management plans for conservation areas and invites public comments. To view management plans and share comments online, visit mdc.mo.gov/areaplans.  

The following draft conservation area management plans are available for public comment June 1-30, 2016.

Central Region

Danville Conservation Area Management Plan – Danville Conservation Area is 3,136 acres of woodland, upland forest, glade, grassland, bottomland forest, old field, cropland, and ephemeral wetlands in Montgomery County. Management is focused on providing quality natural communities that support diverse wildlife populations and provide outdoor recreational activities. Three individual campsites without amenities, one designated camping area with six defined campsites, five parking lots, two privies, and a 3 mile hiking trail are available for public use.  

Mansfield Conservation Area Management Plan  – Alice Ahart Mansfield Conservation Area is 80 acres of forest in Camden County. Management activities are focused on wildlife, forest, and woodland resources with an emphasis on healthy forests and compatible recreational opportunities. This area offers a parking lot and a 0.75 mile hiking trail for public use.

Kansas City Region

Pinhook Access Management Plan  – Pinhook Access is 4 acres of forest and grasslands in Pettis County. This area is managed to provide public fishing access to Muddy Creek for bank anglers. There is one parking lot for public use.

Northeast Region

Anderson & DuPont Conservation Areas Management Plan  – This plan includes both Edward Anderson Conservation Area (1,046 acres) & DuPont Reservation Conservation Area (1,320 acres) in Ralls and Pike Counties. These areas provide for multiple public uses and for conserving and managing the areas’ natural resources.

Shelby County Conservation Areas (Less Than 155 Acres) Management Plan  – These areas provide compatible outdoor recreational activities including hunting and fishing. Conservation areas included in this plan are Arrow-Wood Conservation Area, Fed Bollow Conservation Area, and Pin Oak Conservation Area.

Northwest Region

Crooked River Conservation Area Management Plan  – Crooked River Conservation Area is 1,420 acres of forest, open fields, woodland, old field, grassland, food plots, impounded water, wetland, and infrastructure in Ray County. This area is managed to provide quality upland habitat and associated wildlife while providing a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities for the public. There are seven parking lots, seven individual campsites, two fishing ponds, and one fishing lake for public use.

Nodaway County Community Lake Management Plan  – Nodaway County Community Lake is 320 acres of old field, lakes/ponds, grassland, cropland, forest, and woodland. The purpose of this area is to provide fishing and hunting opportunities for the public in and around the Maryville area. This area offers a concrete boat ramp, one fishing jetty, one privy, three parking areas, one designated primitive camping area, and 2.6 miles of hiking trails.

Ozark Region

Dan and Maureen Cover Memorial Wildlife Area Management Plan  – Dan and Maureen Cover Memorial Wildlife Area is 282 acres of forest, woodland, grassland, old field, warm-season grass field, and open water in Oregon County. This area is managed for a mosaic of grassland, woodland, and forest natural communities to provide a diversity of wildlife habitats and to provide compatible public recreation opportunities. This area provides a parking lot and 1 acre Cover Lake for public use.

Southeast Region

Coldwater Conservation Area Management Plan  – Coldwater Conservation Area is 10,738 acres of upland forest, woodland, and savanna in Wayne County. The purpose of this area is to provide outdoor recreational opportunities and to manage the area’s forest and field resources for the benefit of wildlife and timber production.

Take a look at management plans and share your thoughts online at mdc.mo.gov/areaplans. Thank you for your interest in the management of your Conservation Areas!

Ribbon-cutting ceremony for Forest Lake Trail at Thousand Hills State Park April 22

Missouri State Parks will hold a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the first phase of the Forest Lake Trail, which was recently completed at Thousand Hills State Park in Kirksville. The ceremony will take place at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, April 22 at the Forest Lake trailhead, located behind the restaurant.

The completed portion of the trail is six-tenths of a mile long and connects Campground 2, the Petroglyph Shelter, the swimming beach and the concession area of the park. The trail features a concrete surface and a pedestrian bridge constructed of steel and wood. The bridge has decorative petroglyph images cut from steel plates. The trail was partially funded by a Recreational Trails Program (RTP) grant obtained by the Forest Lake Area Trail System, and it was constructed by Missouri State Parks crews.

The first phase of the Forest Lake Trail marks the beginning of an ambitious project to connect Thousand Hills State Park with the City of Kirksville with a dedicated walking and bicycling trail.

Thousand Hills State Park is located west of Kirksville.  For more information about the 660-665-6995. For more information on state parks and historic sites, visitmostateparks.com. Missouri State Parks is a division of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.

event, call the park at

Wildflower Hike at Prairie State Park June 14

As summer gets started, the prairie is ablaze with color. Join a park naturalist on Saturday, June 14 at 10

a.m. at the Prairie State Park Nature Center in Mindenmines for a walk among green grasses and colorful flowers to learn more about the amazing prairie ecosystem.

It is suggested that visitors dress for the weather and hiking across the prairie. Long pants and sturdy shoes are recommended as well as insect repellant. The hike will last about two hours covering one and a half to two miles.

Prairie State Park is located at 128 NW 150th Lane, Mindenmines. For more information about the event, contact Prairie State Park at 417-843-6711. For more information on state parks and historic sites, visit mostateparks.com. Missouri State Parks is a division of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.

Informational Meeting at Sam A. Baker State Park on June 7

 (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

The public is invited to bring their ideas to an informational meeting at Sam A. Baker State Park on Saturday, June 7. The meeting will begin at 9 a.m. at the Mudlick Trailhead. (In case of heavy rain, the meeting will take place inside the park visitor center). This meeting is being held in conjunction with National Trails Day.

Park representatives will provide information on future plans regarding the park’s trail system, recent and upcoming programs at the park, recent accomplishments and future plans for the facility. Staff will also be available to answer questions. Visitors are invited to share comments and suggestions about park services and operations. This meeting is part of an ongoing effort by Missouri State Parks to ensure citizens have input regarding the facilities and services offered in state parks and historic sites.

Two guided hikes will be offered immediately following the meeting. One hike will lead participants on a 4-5 hour trip along the Mudlick Trail into the park’s Wild and Natural areas. The other will be a stroll on the park’s accessible 1.5 mile walking and biking path. Guests will receive hiking memorabilia, cold drinks and snacks.

Sam A. Baker State Park is located on Hwy 143, approximately 4 miles north of Patterson in Wayne County. Individuals requiring special services or accommodations to attend the meeting can make arrangements by calling the facility directly at 573-856-4411. For information about state parks and historic sites, visit mostateparks.com. Missouri State Parks is a Division of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.  

Learn about prairie wildlife at Prairie State Park Bison Hike on March 1

 (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Visitors are invited to join a park naturalist at Prairie State Park in Mindenmines on a guided bison hike. Sponsored by Missouri State Parks, the hike will take place on Saturday, March 1 at 10 a.m.

With spring around the corner, participants will explore the prairie while learning about bison. Hikers should be prepared for a two mile hike over uneven terrain and are encouraged to dress for the weather and wear sturdy shoes. Hikers may want to bring water, snacks, insect repellent, a hat and sunscreen. Binoculars may also be useful for looking at bison and other wildlife that inhabit the prairie.

Prairie State Park is located at 128 NW 150th Lane in Mindenmines. For more information about the event, contact the park at 417-843-6711. For information about state parks and historic sites, visit mostateparks.com. Missouri State Parks is a division of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.

Related articles

• Bison Hike scheduled at Prairie State Park June 22 (missourioutdoors.blogspot.com)
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Reflections on "100 Missouri Miles"

Son squirrel hunting at Weldon Spring Conservation Area

I receive all of the news releases from Missouri's state parks system and every darn one of them has a link to "100 Missouri Miles," a state initiative taken up by Governor Nixon to get people to log 100 miles of some kind of exercise by year's end.  I kept thinking, this is a ridiculously low number of miles...I hope people are getting more exercise than that already!

Then I remembered an experience I had walking around the neighborhood where my wife grew up in south St. Louis County.  I was walking my dogs.  It was perhaps 7 on a summer evening.  There were no signs of life outdoors - anywhere!  Every home you walked by had this blue light haze from the television creating an eerie dancing light.  It struck me that everyone was completely detached from one another and from the outdoors. They were zombies - pale, soft, decaying.

Ironically, and we are fast forwarding 15 years, her old neighborhood now has seen a generational and economic change and there seems to be kids out playing and a few parents actually out watching them.  It is a much different feeling.

However, the Governor has struck upon a great need...the need to get people reconnected to something besides their electronic devices and the inside of their homes.  100 miles may not be much, but it may be the seed that grows into something more.  If it is only 100 miles, that will be unfortunate, but at least it is 100 miles.

You can sign up for the program at 100missourimiles.com, but you don't really have to.  You can get out a sheet of paper or a calendar and just keep track.

Fishing, hunting, and camping are some ways you can get active in Missouri's outdoors.  We have a site designed for families and individuals to assist them in learning about options available.  We's love for you to look over the amazing options you have. It is at family-outdoors.com

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Wildflower Walk scheduled at Prairie State Park July 6

Visitors are invited to see the prairie ablaze with color on a wildflower hike with a park naturalist at Prairie State Park on Saturday, July 6. Sponsored by Missouri

courtesy http://www.bel-r.com/

State Parks, the hike begins at 10 a.m. at Prairie State Park‘s Nature Center.

The hike will include a walk among green grasses and colorful flowers with an opportunity to learn more about the amazing prairie ecosystem. Participants are encouraged to dress for the weather and wear long pants and sturdy shoes. The hike will last about two hours and cover approximately 1.6 miles.

The Wildflower Walk is also a great opportunity to log miles as a part of the Governor’s 100 Missouri Miles challenge.

To celebrate Missouri’s distinction as the “Best Trails State” by American Trails and to encourage Missourians to enjoy the outdoors, Governor Jay Nixon and First Lady Georganne Nixon are inviting Missourians to join them in completing 100 Missouri Miles of outdoor physical activity by the end of the year.

For more information and to take the Challenge, visit 100MissouriMiles.com. Participants can also share adventures, post photos and learn about upcoming events by connecting with 100 Missouri Miles on Facebook and Twitter.

Prairie State Park is located at 128 NW 150th Lane in Mindenmines. For more information about the event, contact the park at 417-843-6711. For information about state parks and historic sites, visit mostateparks.com. Missouri State Parks is a division of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.

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• Wild edibles hike scheduled at Sam A. Baker State Park May 11 (missourioutdoors.blogspot.com)

Wild edibles hike scheduled at Sam A. Baker State Park May 11

The public will have the opportunity to learn about edible plants on a guided hike on Saturday, May 11, at Sam A. Baker State Park. Sponsored by the Missouri State Parks, the hike will begin at 10 a.m.

During a leisurely stroll on the Shut-Ins Trail, participants will learn about the different types of edible plants, how to identify them, their medicinal and edible purposes, and historical folklore. Those wanting to join the hike should meet at the Mudlick Trail trailhead, across from the park store, and wear sturdy, closed-toed shoes.

Sam A. Baker State Park is located four miles north of Patterson on Highway 143 in Wayne County. For more information on the event or to register, call the park at 573-856-4411. For more information about Missouri state parks and historic sites, visit mostateparks.com. Missouri State Parks is a division of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.

Spring into Spring Hike at Crowder State Park March 23, 2013

Start spring off right with a guided hike at Crowder State Park. Sponsored by Missouri State Parks, the hike will take place on Tall Oaks Trail, a three-mile trail that traverses a wide variety of natural communities found throughout the park.

Hikers will meet at Shelter 3 Parking Lot at 10 a.m. on Saturday, March 23. Participants are advised to wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring water.  

Crowder State Park is located off Highway 6 west of Trenton, in Grundy County. For more information about the event, contact the park at 660-359-6473. For information about state parks and historic sites, visitmostateparks.com. Missouri State Parks is a division of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.

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Fire Tower Hike planned May 12 at Sam A. Baker State Park

 (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Participate in a hike in one of Missouri's more accessible and scenic state parks!

Experience spring in one of the most scenic areas of the state May 12 on a hike to the fire tower on Mudlick Mountain at Sam A. Baker State Park near Patterson. Sponsored by Missouri State Parks, the two-mile hike will begin at 9 a.m. and conclude around noon. The event is free and open to the public.

Spring marks the beginning of new life and is a great time of the year for a hike to the fire tower. Built in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps, the tower sits at the top of Mudlick Mountain at an elevation of 1,313 feet elevation. The hike is moderate and steep in some places so wear sturdy, closed-toed shoes and bring plenty of water and snacks. Hikers should meet in the front of the visitor center. The fire tower is not accessible to visitors.

Sam A. Baker State Park is located on Highway 143 about four miles north of Patterson. For more information, contact the park naturalist at 573-856-4514. For more information about Missouri state parks and historic sites, visit mostateparks.com. Missouri State Parks is a division of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.

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Hiking experience planned April 28 and May 26 at St. Joe State Park

Missouri Mines State Historic Site (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

An all-day hiking adventure will show hikers several different faces of St. Joe State Park in Park Hills. Sponsored by Missouri State Parks, these free hikes are scheduled from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on April 28 and May 26.
The event will combine three different hiking experiences for an intimate glimpse of the park’s natural side. Participants will hike approximately five miles on a wooded horse trail and paved bicycle path before wading a quarter-mile stretch of Harris Branch Creek.
Hiking in places will be strenuous and the terrain will be rocky and possibly very muddy so the hike is not recommended for children under 10 years of age. Hikers are urged to bring lunch, water and an old pair of tennis shoes for wading in the creek. Participants should meet at the Blankshire trailhead parking lot on Pimville Road.
The program is free of charge but advance registration is requested. For more information or to register, call Missouri Mines State Historic Site at 573-431-6226. For more information about Missouri state parks and historic sites, visit mostateparks.com. Missouri State Parks is a division of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.

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Mudlick Hollow hike planned April 21 at Sam A. Baker State Park

(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – Join a park naturalist on April 21 for a five-mile hike into the Mudlick Natural Area at Sam A. Baker State Park near Patterson. Sponsored by Missouri State Parks, the free hike will begin at 9 a.m. and last until around 2 p.m. The public is invited to attend.

The hike will take you into the scenic Mudlick Hollow area of the park. Along the trail, you will discover diverse wildflowers, the historical structures depicting the New Deal Era and the unique geology of the St. Francois Mountains. The trail is rugged and steep in some places, so, wear sturdy hiking boots and bring plenty of snacks and water. Meet at the Mudlick Trail trailhead across from the park store.

Sam A. Baker State Park is located on Highway 143 about four miles north of Patterson. For more information, contact the park naturalist at 573-856-4514. For more information about Missouri state parks and historic sites, visit mostateparks.com. Missouri State Parks is a division of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.

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Nature hike planned March 24 at Big Oak Tree State Park

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo.– Discover the first wildflowers of spring on a nature hike March 24 at Big Oak Tree State Park near East Prairie. Sponsored by Missouri State Parks, the nature hike will be held from 9 to 10 a.m. and is free and open to the public.

This spring nature hike along the park’s boardwalk will showcase spring wildflowers and flowering trees of bottomland forests and swamps in the park. Participants also can expect to see mushrooms, numerous migratory songbirds and other wildlife.

The nature hike will begin at the Big Oak Tree Interpretive Center parking lot and proceed along the elevated boardwalk. Total distance traveled will be about 1.5 miles and will take approximately one hour. Bring your binoculars, cameras and sense of adventure for this fun-filled morning.

Big Oak Tree State Park is located approximately 15 miles south of East Prairie on Highway 102. For more information, contact Big Oak Tree State Park at 573-649-3149 or Hunter-Dawson State Historic Site at 573-748-5340. Missouri State Parks is a division of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.

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Fall hikes planned for Saturdays in October at Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park

Image via Wikipedia

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo., SEPT. 26, 2011 -- Discover the beauty of fall in the Missouri River hills forest Saturday mornings this October at Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park in Wildwood. Each week, hikers will experience a different trail with hikes departing from the scheduled trail’s trailhead at 9 a.m. Most hikes will take approximately one and one-half hours, will be two miles or less and are free and open to the public. 

Schedule:

Oct. 1 -  Hawthorn Trail

Oct. 8 -  Virginia Day Trail

Oct. 15 -  Woodbine Trail

Oct. 22 -  Paved Bike Trail

Oct. 29 -  Dogwood Trail

             The mornings will be spent enjoying nature by viewing numerous birds, mushrooms and wildlife, and discussing the processes that create Missouri’s colorful fall foliage. Bring your binoculars, cameras and sense of adventure for these fun-filled mornings on Babler State Park’s hiking trails.

Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park is located 20 miles west of St. Louis on Highway BA, between U.S. 40 and Highway 100. For more information, call the park directly at 636-458-3813 or by calling the Missouri Department of Natural Resources toll free at 800-334-6946 (voice) or 800-379-2419 (Telecommunications Device for the Deaf). For more information about state parks and historic sites, visit mostateparks.com. 

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Get Out and Play at Babler State Park on Sept. 24

Image via Wikipedia

JEFFERSON CITY, MO., SEPT. 16, 2011 - Take advantage of a colorful fall day and scenic surroundings to get out and play in nature at Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park in Wildwood on Sept. 24.  Fun activities will be available for the entire family from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the park's River Hills Visitor Center.

            These activities, which are free and open to the public, will include making nature bandanas and kites, scavenger hikes, orienteering and mini-habitat exploration. After completing the activities at the park, take home a list of other fun-filled nature activities you can do with your family in Missouri’s state parks. 

Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park is located 20 miles west of St. Louis on Highway BA, between U.S. 40 and Highway 100. For more information, call the park at 636-458-3813 or call the Missouri Department of Natural Resources toll free at 800-334-6946 (voice) or 800-379-2419 (Telecommunications Device for the Deaf). For more information about state parks and historic sites, visit mostateparks.com. 

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Experience late summer wildflower display Sept. 3 at Prairie State Park

Image via Wikipedia

 JEFFERSON CITY, MO., AUG. 29, 2011 - As the tallgrass prairie transitions from summer to fall, it is ablaze with color.  On Sept. 3, experience this color explosion on a wildflower walk at Prairie State Park near Mindenmines. The 1.6-mile walk begins at 10 a.m. at the park's nature center and will last approximately two hours.   

            The park naturalist will lead the hike as you walk among the tall grasses and colorful fall flowers to learn more about the prairie ecosystem.  Dress for the weather and hiking across the prairie; long pants, sturdy shoes and insect repellent are recommended.

             Prairie State Park is located at 128 NW 150th Lane in Barton County. For more details, call PrairieState Park at 417-843-6711 or the Department of Natural Resources toll free at 800-334-6946 (voice) or800-379-2419 (Telecommunications Device for the Deaf). For more information on Missouri state parks, visitmostateparks.com.

Grand opening set Sept. 2 for new hiking and mountain biking trail at Table Rock State Park

Image via Wikipedia

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo., Aug. 24, 2011 -- Hikers and mountain bikers have a new reason to celebrate with the official grand opening of the first designated mountain biking trail system in the Branson area.  The White River Valley Trail in Table Rock State Park will be dedicated at 11 a.m. Friday, Sept. 2 at a trailhead near Branson.

            The White River Valley Trail, a 10.25 mile natural surface trail, is a joint land-use project between MissouriState Parks and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The majority of the trail is within Table Rock State Park with the rest of it on USACE land.

            The ceremony will include representatives from Missouri State Parks, which administers Table Rock State Park, the USACE, local and state officials, and many of the volunteer groups that supported and helped build the trail.

            The trail was partially financed by two federal Recreational Trails Program grants. Because of the trail's outstanding use of the federal RTP grants, it was recognized in 2011 by the federal Coalition for Recreational Trails with the award in the Multi-Use Management and Corridor Sharing Category. Bill Bryan, director of Missouri State Parks, a division of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources, will present the award to the park during the ceremony.  

            "This trail will provide a great new recreational resource for mountain bikers and hikers and should bring users here from all over the area," said Bryan. "We are pleased to be a part of a trail that has been recognized nationally and has such amazing local support." 

             The trail, consisting of four loops with different characteristics, will provide a challenging experience for mountain bikers and hikers in a rugged and scenic area of the state. Trail users will experience elevation changes ranging from 710 feet to nearly 1,200 feet above sea levels with natural communities ranging from moist bottomland woodlands to dry dolomite glades on the higher areas. The trail will travel near old homesteads and relics of the Table Rock Dam construction during the 1950s with dramatic views of Table Rock Lake and Lake Taneycomo.

            Now that the trail has been completed, staff at Table Rock State Park plan to host adventure events and mountain biking races on the trail. The park also includes two other trails, a campground, picnic areas, and a full-service marina with access to Table Rock Lake.     

            The main trailhead for the White River Valley Trail is located on Highway 165 north of the park's main entrance. For more information about Table Rock State Park, call the park directly at 417-334-4704 or the Missouri Department of Natural Resources toll free at 800-334-6946 (voice) or 800-379-2419 (Telecommunications Device for the Deaf). For information on Missouri state parks, go to mostateparks.com.