barneveld prairie state natural area

Located (basically) just south of Barneveld the state natural area is open now and/but still under development. One section is found off of County Hwy T and the other on Langberry Rd off of Country Rd K. There are signs, but the easiest way to find the main area is to go past the Botham Winery. At the top of the hill there is what can loosely be called a parking area. There is a new sign there, its hard to miss. Langberry road is a dead end, if you start going down hill you've gone too far. There are homes and private land in the valley. So far the trails are not well developed and not well marked. There is a mowed path that makes a large circle. We went off the path and explored a bit more of the valley. To the west there is a creek. To the north is the remains of an old barn and silo. Much of the valley area below the old barn is brush, tall weeds and sawed down tree's. Dogs are allowed. There were lots of burr's, so if you take your dog expect to have to pull them out. In warmer weather I'd assume that there would be tick's a plenty. So check your dog and yourself over when your done. The mowed path is some what uneven and rough in places, I'd recommend hiking boots. I'd also recommend wearing pants and bringing drinking water. There are no facilities and no special needs access. The area is quiet and secluded, the main path is at least a thirty minute walk. We explored a bit and spent a good hour. Some of the path is steep in places. To the south there is another abandoned farm, it is the kind of thing kids would go for. Be aware there are boards with nails and it is easy to step on them. I spotted one badger hole, you want to leave them alone. If you don't know why... just trust me on this one. Otherwise it was a nice place to go for a walk.