Within Mark Twain National Forest, McCormack Lake Recreation Area provides free dispersed camping year-round along a forested lake setting. The US Forest Service manages this drive-in and hike-in accessible area, where campers can set up among the trees with basic amenities including drinking water, restrooms, picnic tables, and trash service.
The lake draws mixed reactions from visitors, with water conditions varying seasonally. Some campers report brown foam on the surface during certain periods, while others find the fishing worthwhile. Wildlife activity remains consistent, with frogs and birds providing evening sounds. Local hunters occasionally pass through the area, as Meghan B. noted: "the spot was peaceful and full of chirping birds and frogs."
Crowding patterns depend heavily on timing. Weeknight visits often mean having the area largely to yourself, while day-use visitors may appear during peak periods. The primitive sites accommodate big rigs, and both campfires and alcohol are permitted. Those seeking additional options can explore campsites near Mark Twain National Forest throughout the region.
This free camping option works best for self-sufficient campers comfortable with basic facilities who want lake access without reservation requirements.
Description
McCormack Lake Recreation Area is located near Greer Spring and offers good fishing and boating. It is located on paved Forest Road 3155 off of Highway 19. This site has semi-developed picnic and camping facilities. There is hiking at McCormack Lake Recreation Area also. This is a trailhead for the 3.7-mile McCormack-Greer Trail, which ends at Greer Crossing Picnic Area and also connects to Ozark Trail. The 15-acre lake is stocked annually with panfish and bass being the catch of the day. The lake is a non-motorized area; boat motors are not allowed. An electric trolling motor is permitted. There is ample parking for picnickers and fishermen. The campground is primitive with limited picnic tables, firerings and lantern posts. A vault toilet is provided. No water is available.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Dispersed CampingMcCormack Lake Rec Area is located in Missouri
Directions
The turn off to McCormack Lake Recreation Area is 13 miles south of Winona on Hwy 19. From Winona, MO go south on Hwy 19 for 13 miles, then go west on Forest Road 3155. The lake is about 2 miles down this road, which is drivable in any vehicle.
Coordinates
36.82185905 N
91.35297428 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Big Rig Friendly
DISPERSED CAMPING
Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if McCormack Lake Rec Area needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 1 hr 58 min from Jonesboro, AR
- 2 hrs 5 min from Springfield, MO
- 2 hrs 17 min from Cape Girardeau, MO
- 2 hrs 53 min from Jefferson City, MO
