A virgin forest consisting of large basswood, butternut, Kentucky coffee tree, walnut, sugar maple, white and red oak is sheltered in one narrow gorge, making it an ideal outdoor biological laboratory.

The area is within the St. Francois Mountains, where elevations range from 520 to 1305 feet. The entire area is heavily forested with oak, hickory, pine, red cedar, and other hardwood species.

Scenic attractions include Rockpile Mountain itself, the steep limestone bluffs, rock formations, and caves along the St. Francis River. The narrow gorges or"shut-ins," with their rushing cascades during periods of runoff, and the scattered granite glades add variety to the wilderness landscape, as well as unique plant and animal communities.

The area has no significant natural permanent water except for the St. Francis River, which touches the area along the southwest corner. Drainages within the area are intermittent, flowing in the times of surplus rainfall. Runoff becomes a torrent in some of the small streams following heavy rains because of the rapid runoff from the steep areas of exposed rock. A few springs exist in the area. Five wildlife ponds constructed prior to Wilderness designation provide a man-made source of year-round water for wildlife.

The wildlife within the area is typical of the Missouri Ozarks. Big game consists of white-tailed deer and wild turkey. Small game animals include squirrels, rabbits, and various other fur bearers. Bird life ranges from large birds such as hawks, owls, turkey vultures, and pileated woodpeckers to the smaller songbirds. The different habitats encourage a variety of birds. Turtles, lizards, and snakes are found throughout the area. Timber rattlers and copperheads are the only poisonous snakes.

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