Quercus Wilderness Area
The Quercus (Latin for Oak) Wilderness Area is a unique area that offers a variety of features for any outdoor enthusiast. Quercus has 111 acres of wilderness located seven (7) miles south of Oskaloosa at 3139 Kent Ave., Oskaloosa, Iowa. There is a handicap friendly paved trail to the bluff.
This area is dominated by oak, hickory and many other hardwood trees, which are managed by controlled burning, thinning and crop tree release. The high quality and quantity of timber in this area makes it a turkey hunter’s paradise. Along with turkey hunting, this area is great place to hunt for mushrooms.
The soil that comprises the area is unique. The soil is sandy silt loam that was formed while the glaciers retreated from Iowa. This soil is similar to the soil found in the Loess Hills in Western Iowa.
There are various activities that would appeal to anyone from the novice to the enthusiast. Quercus offers a place to hunt, cross-country ski, hike, picnic and primitive (tent) camping. There are five (5) primitive campsites adjacent to the trail that winds through the area. Each campsite has a fire ring and picnic table. The camping fee for this area is $15.00 per night with a camping limit of fourteen (14) consecutive nights. A map of the trails has been included with this article.
Amenities and Features
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Cross-Country Skiing |
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Hunting |
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Picnicking |
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Tent Camping |
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Trails (Hiking) |