Established Camping
Frank Russell
Frank Russell, near Monroe City, Missouri, is a fantastic campground that offers a blend of comfort and outdoor adventure. With spacious, paved sites featuring full hookups and fire pits, it’s perfect for both RVs and tents, making it easy to settle in and enjoy your surroundings.
Visitors rave about the well-maintained facilities, including clean restrooms and a convenient dump station. One camper highlighted the “perfectly level” parking pads, which made setting up a breeze. The campground is also pet-friendly, so you can bring your furry friends along for the fun.
For those who love fishing and hiking, Frank Russell is a great base. There are trails nearby that lead right to the water, allowing for easy access to fishing spots. Reviewers have enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere, often noting how quiet it is, especially during the week when fewer campers are around. As one happy camper put it, “We had the place to ourselves.”
With its beautiful surroundings and ample amenities, Frank Russell is an excellent choice for anyone looking to unwind in nature while still enjoying the comforts of home. Whether you’re here for a quick stop or a longer stay, you’ll find plenty to appreciate in this welcoming campground.
Description
US Army Corps of Engineers
Mark Twain Lake
Overview
Frank Russell Campground, set near the picturesque Mark Twain Lake, has a location near the dam, providing campers with easy access to the lake, river and surrounding attractions. The campground also features an amphitheater with weekly events in the summer. The lake's namesake and legendary author and humorist, Mark Twain, was born in a town beside the lake.
Recreation
The 32-mile long Joanna Trail is accessible from the campground. Here, horseback riders, mountain bikers and hikers can enjoy the rough and varied terrain that meanders along the northern banks of the lake, across bluffs and over hills. Campfire programs are provided every Saturday from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
Natural Features
Mark Twain Lake is sourced by the Salt River in northeast Missouri. The Clarence Cannon Dam sits on the eastern edge of the lake, providing flood control and hydroelectricity to the region.
Nearby Attractions
While here, many visitors tour the birthplace of world-famous humorist and author, Mark Twain, in Florida, Missouri. The David C. Berti Shooting Range is below the dam and the M.W. Boudreaux Visitor Center is located on the south end of the Dam.
Fee Info
Check-in Time:05:00 PM; Checkout Time:4:00 PM
Location
Frank Russell is located in Missouri
Directions
From Hannibal - Hwy 36 west 17 miles to Hwy J, south 9 miles. From Monroe City - Hwy 36 east 3 miles to Hwy J, south 9 miles. From Paris - Hwy 154 east 20 miles to Hwy J (Perry), north 10 miles. From Perry - Hwy J north 10 miles.
Address
20642 HIGHWAY J
Monroe city, MO 63456-9359
Coordinates
39.5355556 N
91.6475 W
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Stay Connected
- WiFiPoor
- VerizonUnknown
- AT&TGood
- T-MobileUnknown
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Equestrian
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Sewer Hookups
- Water Hookups
- 50 Amp Hookups
- Big Rig Friendly
Contact
General Info
Reservations
Drive Time
- 1 hr 21 min from Columbia
- 1 hr 30 min from Jefferson City
- 1 hr 52 min from Springfield
- 1 hr 56 min from St. Louis