Adams Homestead and Nature Preserve

This property once belonged to Stephen Searl Adams in 1872 and is located near the Missouri River.

Adams Homestead and Nature Preserve once belonged to the Adams family were donated in 1984 by Mary and Maud Adams, the granddaughters of the original homesteader Stephen Searl Adams. The family wanted the area to be available for people, especially children, to learn about nature, animals, and the world around them. Mary and Maud wanted to give others a "place for inner renewal."

Adams Homestead and Nature Preserve have almost 10-miles of limestone trails, creating a winding path through the forest, prairie, and along the riverbank. There are many native plants, over 100 species of birds, and several different animals. The homestead has several restored historical buildings such as the Lamont Country School, Sha/Adams House, Stayenger Lutheran Church, and Brusseau Cabin. Make reservations ahead of time if you would like to tour the historic buildings.

The Adams Homestead also features a paved bike path, mountain bike trails, picnic tables, and interpretive programs. It spans 1,500 acres along the Missouri River. The Adams Homestead Track Trail follows the Lake Loop and is a fully accessible, multi-use trail. Explore the Lake Loop for a longer hike (3.8-miles round-trip) to see the nearby woodlands and open fields. Keep an eye out for the buffalo on the adjacent private property behind the fence. Visitors can also enjoy archery, biking, bird watching, hiking, stargazing, wildlife, the museum, and the visitors center. Flush toilets, group picnic shelters, picnic tables, and playgrounds are also on site. Enjoy the farm animals at the chicken house and try to find deer, wild turkey, pheasants, frogs, toads, and butterflies while you visit.