St. Louis Region
Victoria Glades shows Jefferson County's dry hilltop ecology
Victoria Glades Conservation Area near Hillsboro gives Jefferson County a public example of dolomite glades, prairie grasses, and managed open woodland.
Victoria Glades Conservation Area protects 239 acres of glades and forest east of Hillsboro. Its dry ground supports little bluestem, Indian grass, sideoats grama, big bluestem, and prairie dropseed. Small pockets of blackjack oak forest ring the open glades.
A marked 2.3-mile loop crosses oak-hickory woods and part of the glade itself. Snakes, lizards, deer, and turkey all use the area. MDC maintains the open habitat with prescribed fire and cedar removal. The current brochure and map carry the rules for a visit.
The lasting lesson is visible on the ground: the rocky openings are not worn-out woods. They are a distinct habitat that depends on fire and cedar removal.
Where to see it
- Victoria Glades Conservation Area
Use MDC's area brochure for glade context, access, and regulations.
- Victoria Glades Conservation Area map
Use the MDC map before visiting.
References
More from Jefferson County: browse every local note for the county.
Last checked against the sources above: July 16, 2026.