Driving DirectionsFrom Manes, take Highway 95 north 1 mile, then Radford Drive west 1.50 miles. HighlightsThis area contains forest, old fields, cropland, and grassland. Facilities/features: primitive camping, picnic area, and a permanent stream (Gasconade River). About This AreaWilbur Allen Memorial Conservation Area is located on a gravel road off Highway 95 about 20 miles northeast of Hartville in Wright County.The area was named in honor of Mr. Wilbur Allen, the inventor of the compound bow. To commemorate Mr. Allen's contribution to archery, his family in cooperation with the Missouri Department of Conservation, established this area in 1981. Its purpose is to promote the sport of bow hunting by providing a place where deer are hunted exclusively by bow. (Other wildlife species may be taken with firearms during the prescribed season.)The 380-acre tract is half forested. The remainder is planted with native grasses and other plants to benefit a large number of wildlife species.One mile of the Gasconade River runs through the area, affording many recreational opportunities. This river is well known for its excellent smallmouth bass and goggle-eye fishing.During your visit, you may view various forest improvement practices designed to improve tree growth, quality, and species composition. The practices also improve wildlife habitat and watershed quality. Wildlife habitat management includes the creation of watering ponds and the manipulation of fields within the forest to provide added food sources. Timber harvests also produce forage and cover for wildlife.