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Within the System of Natural Areas are sites that represent some of the best, and last, remaining examples of the state’s original natural landscape. Natural areas are special places that protect rare natural communities and provide vital habitat for a host of plant and animal species, some of which are considered to be rare, threatened, or endangered. Locate one of our 79 natural areas below.

 

Baker Prairie Natural Area

Tags
Natural Areas Primitive Trails
Division
Ozark Mountains
Acres
30
Year Added
1993
Hunting Allowed?
No
Arkansas Natural Heritage Commission
Featured by
ANHC
Location
Boone County
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Baker Prairie Natural Area is a remnant of what was once a 5,000-acre tallgrass prairie located west and south of present day downtown Harrison. It is the largest known remnant of Ozark Mountain prairie occurring on a chert substrate. The prairie harbors a number of species of animals and plants of special concern in Arkansas. Due to its location within the city limits of Harrison, local development could impact the integrity of the natural area. The area is managed cooperatively with an adjacent 40-acre tract owned by The Nature Conservancy (TNC).

TRAIL

Length - 1.18 miles roundtrip
Difficulty - Easy; not ADA accessible
Download Trail Map 
 
There are two mowed loop trails, one on each side of Goblin Drive. Each trail takes visitors past a variety of native prairie plants. Baker Prairie has an abundance of flowering plants from late April through June, with different wildflowers blooming in succession. Parking is available at the Middle School adjacent to the natural area.

Cell Phone Audio Tour

 

DIRECTIONS

Follow U.S. Highway 65 North through Harrison. At the intersection of Highway 65, Highway 65B (North Main), and Industrial Park Road, continue west on Industrial Park Road (Highway 65 is the main road and will turn to the north at this point). Follow Industrial Park Road to Goblin Drive. Turn left on Goblin Drive. The prairie is 0.5 mile down Goblin Drive. Signs are on both sides of the road. Parking is available on the left side of the road at the high school.

HUNTING

Hunting is prohibited on this natural area.

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