Schnell Ranch Recreation Area

The 2,000-acre Schnell Recreation Area was once working cattle ranch that the Schnell family owned and operated for 80 of its 120 years. In 1993, the land became public property through the combined efforts of the Bureau of Land Management, the Conservation Fund, the Richard King Mellon Foundation, and the Schnell family. The native mixed-grass prairie, hardwood draws, and former pasture land consist of provide a variety of wildlife habitats. You might see duck, ring-necked pheasant, sharp-tailed grouse, Hungarian or grey partridge, white-tailed and mule deer, turkey, rabbit, squirrel, porcupine, and neotropical migratory birds such as bluebirds, warblers, and flickers. Activities: Schnell is a non-motorized area with good opportunities for wildlife viewing, nature photography, hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, cross-country skiing, camping, and environmental education. Dispersed primitive tent camping is allowed on the property except along an established 1.5 mile nature trail. Facilities: Each of the six campsites has a fire ring, grill, picnic table, lantern holder, and garbage can. Potable water is easily accessible from every site but is only available from mid-April to mid-October. Three vault toilets are easily accessible from the camp sites. Grass, trees, and shrubs have been planted to reduce dust and to provide shade and a more pleasant surrounding. Please help to preserve the area--use only trash receptacles for your garbage. Be careful with fire. Use the fire rings that are provided and make sure your fire is completely out when you leave. Use only dead and down wood for fuel. Enjoy natural and cultural objects, such as rocks, flowers, and antlers, but please don't remove them.