By:
Submission
Apple Creek Conservation Area is located in northeast Cape Girardeau County, three miles east of New Wells on Route CC.
The Missouri Department of Conservation created Apple Creek Conservation Area in 1986 with the purchase of 2,100 acres from several landowners.
Steep hills and narrow valleys characterize this area, and approximately 2.5 miles of Apple Creek stream frontage forms its northern border.
The Conservation Department has created watering ponds and planted food plots and agricultural crops within the forest to provide additional food sources for wildlife.
North of Cape Girardeau, take the Fruitland exit off I-55, then Highway 61 north 7 miles, then Route CC east 6 miles to the area.
I’ve always loved coming here since 1999. I usually end up engaging in at least a few conversations by the end of the day. The community of folks who patronize the range is just awesome. I’ve yet to find any better class of folks anywhere else, period. Most if not all folks here are more than willing to lend a hand or offer advice to anyone in need of either.
I watched a complete stranger give up a chunk of their ammunition to some folks who had arrived and found that they had forgotten theirs at home. I’ve even given out ammo that I no longer had use for to folks who were running a little short or just plain weren’t ready to pack up and call it a day yet. And I have been offered tips and advice over the years that I still follow to this day. In fact, I learned most of my skill and valuable knowledge of gun safety from folks out here. I have never encountered any “gate keeping” of any kind in the more than twenty years of my patronage here. Like I said… The community is world class in my book and always friendly and helpful. You get, and you give.
As for the range itself, always cleaned and maintained on Tuesdays and ready for another week of shooting. Not that folks who come here would ever leave trash on this fine range. I’ve never seen the place in unruly condition, not once. The rule signs are visibly posted at the walkway entrance and are very clear and concise in their word format. Well enough that no one should have to second guess on any of the required safety and conduct regulations.
Lots of different lanes for different shooting styles and firearm types. I have never had to wait for a bench on any of my trips here. In fact, I have seldom if ever seen the place packed to capacity. But I mostly frequent early morning weekdays when I visit so that may be why. Updates to the layout seem to be on par with the sport as the world turns and progresses in the years. I’ve never been left contemplating a score under five stars. I will be teaching my children all of the knowledge that I have acquired from the many people and visits at this excellent range and I will definitely be teaching them here. A family tradition to be proud of.
Luv the place range us great. Camping is fun for hard core. Haven't had a chance to fish yet.
Nice little campsites (3). Primitive, no facilities or hookups. Great shooting ranges.
I've hiked around the conservation area and really enjoyed it, but most of my time has been spent the shooting range. It is well-maintained and usually not too busy. I always enjoy the drive out and back!
Very crowded. Most hunters are respective of others hunting and some will just walk out in front of you and sit down. Very hard to stay safe with irresponsible people like that.
