Irish Wilderness Clear Creek Historic Logging Circuit

The Irish Wilderness earned its name from the Irish loggers who worked these hills in the 1800s, leaving behind a network of old logging roads that now serve as one of Missouri’s finest backcountry routes. This circuit follows Clear Creek through 16,500 acres of roadless wilderness, passing remnants of the old Barton logging camp and crossing the creek at historic Ford 7 where teams of oxen once hauled massive timber loads. The route climbs to White Creek Knob before dropping back down to the Eleven Point River confluence at Turner Mill.

Moderate difficulty with seasonal challenges – spring rains turn the creek crossings into real water hazards, while summer brings overgrown brush that’ll pin-stripe your paint. High-clearance 4WD essential for the rock steps at Bliss Spring and the muddy bog section near Camp Five Ridge. No camping allowed within wilderness boundaries, but designated sites exist along Forest Road 3190. Best run in fall when water’s low and the hardwoods show color. You’ll experience Missouri’s largest roadless area with legitimate wilderness solitude just hours from St. Louis.