Deep within the rows of restaurants and retailers in Chesterfield Valley, West St. Louis County’s natural gem resides.

Howell Island, a conservation area on the banks of the Missouri River, is the perfect getaway for those hoping to escape the hustle and bustle of modern suburbia.

Visitors can enter this private paradise via North Eatherton road, where a sign advertising the area invites nature enthusiasts in.

The gravel makeshift parking lot is where one can leave their car, before they walk for about a minute toward what looks like your typical wooded area.

Suddenly, however, the sycamore and cottonwood trees open to unveil a majestic island retreat.

The island is bounded by the Missouri River to the north, and by Centaur Chute, a side channel of the Missouri, to the south.  The Centaur Causeway allows visitors land access into a wooded area one can enter upon crossing the river.

The main draw to Howell Island is the seclusion.  The amount of people at the conservation area does not typically surpass the single digits.

The lack of a crowd does not mean there is not anything to do at the island, though.

Howell Island is a great place to fish or hunt in peace and quiet.  For those more fitness inclined, there is an 8 mile trail often used for cycling or hiking.

Regardless of what one’s hobbies are, the breathtaking views of the water and woodlands can be enjoyed by all.

If one is wanting to unwind and escape from the responsibilities of regular life, Howell Island is the perfect rejuvenating retreat.

More information on Howell Island can be found on its website, http://mdc4.mdc.mo.gov/applications/moatlas/AreaSummaryPage.aspx?txtAreaID=7808