Honey Creek Conservation Area in Northwest Missouri

On July 8, 1804, the Lewis and Clark Expedition camped on an island where the Nodaway River joins the Missouri River from the north (look at the upper-left corner on this map). Clark noted in his journal that Nodaway Island was the largest that he had seen so far, and the Captains always preferred to make camp on islands for the security that they provide.

The next overland expedition from St. Louis to the mouth of the Columbia River was the Astor Expedition of 1810-1812, and they made winter camp at Nodaway Island, in accordance with Lewis and Clark's recommendation.

The ever-shifting Missouri River has not left us a trace of this island, but you can gain an appreciation for what this region has to offer by visiting the Honey Creek Conservation Area, located a few miles northwest of St. Joseph, MO. This 1,448-acre nature preserve contains a diverse assortment of habitats, including forest and woodland, cropland and grassland. Good fishing and camping opportunities are provided along 1/2 mile of Nodaway River frontage on the southwest corner of the area, and multi-use trails are open to bicycling, horses and horseback riding.

Located in the same vicinity is the Worthwine Island Conservation Area, also managed by the Missouri Department of Conservation.

Home Page
Andrew County, MO
816-271-3100

On Google Maps
Honey Creek Conservation Area

Featured Stop: Patee House Museum in St. Joseph, MO

The Patee House in St. Joseph, Missouri, served as the Pony Express headquarters from 1860 to 1861, was occupied by the Union Army during the Civil War, and is where Jesse James was killed by a fellow gang member.

Built by John Patee as a luxury hotel in 1858, the Patee House Museum now features two full floors of exhibits. Featured are artifacts from Jesse James' life and death, and from Frank James and the Ford brothers. Climb aboard an 1860 train and let your kids ride the vintage "Wild Thing" carousel. See the Grand Ballroom where Pony Express riders danced with local girls, and where war trials were held by the Union Army during the Civil War.

Home Page
1202 Penn Street
St. Joseph, MO 64503
(816) 232-8206

On Google Maps
Patee House Museum
Jesse James Home