Prairie Home Conservation

Prairie Home Conservation Area, located in eastern Cooper County, is an upland area with a mix of oldfields, small cropfields, grasslands, and woodlands. The original acquisition in 1963 included 212 acres in the northwest corner of the area. In 1997, Allen and Wilda Johnson donated funds earmarked for resource management that resulted in the construction of three lakes that range in size from three to 11 acres. Their generous donation provides habitat for fish, reptiles, amphibians, waterfowl, waterbirds, and songbirds. Area users enjoy opportunities for fishing and wildlife viewing. For the hunting enthusiast, the area supports deer, turkey, squirrel, rabbit and quail. Hikers and birders find a seasonal array of migrant and resident songbirds including summer tanagers, woodpeckers, vireos, warblers, and sparrows.

Designated camping areas may or may not have defined campsites. Seasonal closures and restrictions may apply to all camping on department areas.

Camping is allowed anytime in designated camping areas. These may or may not have defined campsites. Seasonal closures and restrictions may apply. Camping is limited to 14 consecutive days in a 30-day period. Groups of more than 10 campers require a special use permit. No unattended camp fires. Camping on other parts of the area may be allowed by special use permit. On department areas where camping is allowed, camping is limited to a period of 14 consecutive days in any 30-day period. Personal property must be removed at the end of the 14-day period. Unless a special use permit is obtained, total camping days on all department areas are limited to a total of 30 days within one calendar year. Groups of more than 10 people must obtain a special use permit prior to camping. To obtain a special use permit, contact the area manager at the phone number listed for this area in the area details section.

Quiet hours are in effect in camping areas from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. daily. Visitors who are not occupying a campsite are required to leave the campground by 10 p.m.

On camping areas with established campsites, only two camping or sleeping units are permitted in each site.