Driving DirectionsNear the intersection of I-44 and Highway 141 in St. Louis County, take Meramec Station Road off Highway 141 west 1 mile, then left on Hillsboro Road 0.50 mile to the area entrance. HighlightsThis area is mostly forest with a staffed firearms range and a permanent stream (Williams Creek). About This AreaForest 44 is in west St. Louis County. To reach the area take Highway 141 south from I-44 to Meramec Station Road, which is the first stoplight. Turn right (west) and drive 0.9 mile to Hillsboro Road. Turn left and go 0.4 mile to the area parking lot. The 998-acre area borders I-44 for three miles.This tract once was part of a 10,000-acre cattle ranch. The Conservation Department purchased the area in 1990 from the heirs of the Reinken Estate. One more aquisition of 40 acres was acquired by a partial donation and is known as the Dorothy E. Aselman Memorial Addition (see area map).This rugged forestland is situated on the northeastern most extension of the Ozark uplift and contains plants and animals typical of Ozark ecology.Situated on the outskirts of a large population center, Forest 44 Conservation Area offers a unique opportunity for urban dwellers to escape the rigors of the city and enjoy a variety of outdoor activities.Several springs feed Williams Creek, which flows along the eastern portion of the area. Flowering dogwood and redbud trees add to the area's natural beauty, especially in the springtime. Hiking, wildlife viewing, and horseback riding are popular activities.The area offers the Jay Henges Shooting Range and Outdoor Education Center for public use.  Directions to the shooting range: Take I-44 west to Beaumont/ Antire Road, exit 269 go left over I-44 to Antire Road. Turn right on Antire Road. Go one hundred feet to entrance and turn left into driveway, across from commuter parking lot.