Mark Twain National Forest Missouri

Mark Twain National Forest Overview

Mark Twain National Forest spans nearly 1.5 million acres across southern and central Missouri, encompassing a diverse landscape of rolling hills, hardwood forests, clear Ozark streams, and rugged bluffs. Established in 1939 and named after famed Missouri author Mark Twain, the forest is the only national forest in the state and is a cornerstone of outdoor recreation in the Ozarks.

Visitors can enjoy a classic Ozark outdoor experience — from quiet rivers and wooded campgrounds to scenic drives and rugged wilderness areas. Its vast size and varied terrain make it a destination for both casual campers and seasoned adventurers seeking solitude in Missouri’s natural landscapes.

Outdoor Recreation & Activities

The forest has over 750 miles of trails for hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, and motorized use.  Other outdoor recreation includes boating, kayaking, fishing, water sports, hunting and picnicking. Wildlife viewing is also good with opportunities to see many forest creatures.

Sections of the Ozark Trail wind through the forest. More than 350 miles of perennial streams, suitable for floating canoeing and kayaking, meander through its canopied expanses. Campgrounds also offer visitors a variety of forest experiences, including semi-primitive and wilderness camping for solitude.

Amenities

• BBQ Grills
• Boat Launch/Ramp
• Boat Trailer Lot
• Campground Host
• Campsite Tables
• Cell Service - None
• Cell Service Fair
• Cell Service Poor
• Corrals
• Drinking Water
• Dumpsters
• Equestrian trail
• Fire Pit
• Fire Rings
• Firewood Available
• Golden Age & Access Passports accepted
• Grills
• Hiking & Biking Trails
• Pets OK
• Picnic Tables
• Ranger Station
• RV Dump Station
• Stalls
• Trash Collection

Activities

• ATVing
• Biking
• Bird Watching
• Boating
• Canoeing
• Fishing
• Fly Fishing
• Hiking
• Historic Sites
• Horseback riding
• Hunting
• Kayaking
• Mountain Biking
• OHVing
• OTV Trails/Riding
• Paddle boarding (SUP)
• Photography
• Picnicking
• Stargazing
• Swimming
• Water Sports
• Wildlife Viewing
• Winter/Snow Sports