Monkey Mountain Conservation Area is the kind of place you head to when you want to get a little dirty, a little lost (in a good way), and a whole lot unplugged. Nestled in Holt County, this rugged spot is a haven for hikers, gravel riders, and primitive campers who don’t mind trading creature comforts for wild beauty. The trails? Mostly mowed paths that wind through shady forests, creek bottoms, and rolling hills—but don’t expect them to be manicured. From late spring through fall, things can get thick and tick-y, so bring the long pants and bug spray, and lean into the adventure.

Primitive camping is fair game in a few designated spots, and the area’s a solid basecamp for gravel biking—surrounded by quiet, scenic roads that connect to a web of rural routes. There are no restrooms, no water hookups, and definitely no vending machines—just you, the wind in the trees, and maybe the sound of your own breath as you climb a bluff. If you're into solitude, self-reliance, and the kind of trails that don’t come with warning signs or neatly printed maps, Monkey Mountain might just be your new favorite escape.

For more information on the area, check out the Missouri Department of Conservation’s official Monkey Mountain Conservation Area page.