Brushy Creek State Recreation Area Timber Access Loop

Most folks stick to the main trails at Brushy Creek, but the old timber access roads that snake through the northern sections tell a different story. These unmarked routes follow century-old logging paths through oak and hickory stands, crossing Brushy Creek’s tributaries at rocky fords that’ll scrape your skid plates if you’re not careful. The highlight is Devil’s Backbone Ridge, a narrow limestone outcrop that offers views across the Des Moines River valley through gaps in the canopy.

This isn’t technical wheeling, but it demands respect for wet conditions and seasonal creek levels. Any high-clearance vehicle handles the dry sections fine, but spring runoff turns those creek crossings into commitment moves. Best tackled fall through early spring when the timber crews aren’t active and you won’t get locked behind a logging truck. No permits required, but dispersed camping is limited to designated areas only.