Schell-Osage Conservation Area

Schell-Osage Conservation Area offers boat access to Barter Lake in Schell City, featuring a dedicated boat ramp designed to accommodate multiple vessels and trailers. The conservation area encompasses over 900 acres of lakes and ponds within a diverse landscape of bottomland and upland forest, native prairie, and restored grasslands. This is an excellent destination for kayakers and canoeists seeking a calm-water paddling experience on a managed lake system.

The access site includes amenities such as parking and a primitive campground, making it suitable for extended visits. Recent improvements to the facility have enhanced boating infrastructure, including better ramp spacing and parking layout to facilitate easier launching and retrieval. Anglers and recreational paddlers will benefit from the improved access points and maintained shoreline. Check current conditions before visiting, as periodic maintenance and construction projects may temporarily affect access to certain areas of the conservation area.