Driving DirectionsFrom Bethany, take Highway 136 east 9 miles, then Route CC south (right) 3 miles to the area. HighlightsThis area contains old fields, forest, cropland, prairie, and two small wetlands. The area features two designated camping areas (primitive) and the 30-acre Helton Prairie Natural Area, which features unique wildflower displays from mid-May until early July. About This AreaThe Conservation Department established this wildlife area in 1969 with the purchase of 440 acres from Nina Pauline Helton, widow of the late J. Wayne Helton, who served as the conservation agent for Caldwell and Daviess counties from 1941 until 1965. The purchase of several additional tracts since 1969 has increased the area to its current size.The northwest corner of the area includes the Helton Prairie Natural Area, one of the best examples of native prairie in north Missouri. Nearly 200 native prairie plants have been identified on the 30-acre natural area.Because of its size and diversity, Wayne Helton Memorial Wildlife Area is managed for a wide range of game and non-game wildlife species. Management activities on the area include farming, prescribed burning, native vegetation establishment, discing, and food plots. Helton Prairie Natural Area lies on the northwest corner of the area.Very few unplowed prairies exist in northern Missouri. Wildflower displays are especially noteable from mid-May until early July.