The Living Forest

See an entire cast of animal characters during a free fun-filled afternoon in the forest at Hobbs State Park-Conservation Area. Check-in no later than 3 p.m. at the visitor center where you can enjoy a variety of crafts and activities while waiting for your turn to hike with a guide through the Living Forest. During your hike along the paved 0.25-mile Ozark Plateau Trail you’ll meet around a dozen forest animals (costumed volunteers). On this one magical day they can share with you their story, including why they’re important to the forest and what you can do to help them. Following the hike, you can stop at the pavilion for s’mores and apple cider. It will take around 1.5 hours to complete all the activities. Groups of no more than 15 will leave the visitor center approximately every 10 minutes. This non-scary event is ideal for children ages 4-7, and we encourage everyone to wear a costume if you’d like. If it should rain the event will be moved indoors. COVID-19 SAFETY GUIDELINES ARE IN EFFECT FOR GUEST AND STAFF SAFETY. SPACE MAY BE LIMITED.