Camping sites at Mark Twain Lake sit at approximately 620 feet above sea level in northeast Missouri's rolling hills. The 18,000-acre lake features 285 miles of shoreline with hardwood forests and limestone outcroppings characteristic of this transition zone between prairie and woodland ecosystems. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-95°F with humidity levels reaching 80% during peak camping season.
What to do
Fishing at multiple access points: Puma Campground at Mark Twain State Park provides easy lake access for anglers targeting crappie, bass, and catfish. "Pure, pristine, well maintained. Easy access to the lake... The park featured a playground, boat ramp, and a fish cleaning station," notes Jen R. about the facilities.
Hiking interconnected trails: Trail systems throughout the area offer routes of varying distances with moderate elevation changes. "There are several different trails that interconnect allowing for hikes of different lengths. The tree colors were amazing" during fall visits, according to Kevin M. at Puma Campground.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The shoreline areas at Hunnewell Lake Conservation Area provide habitat for waterfowl and white-tailed deer. The conservation area maintains free boat access for wildlife spotting. "Stayed for two nights. Beautiful lake and being it was the end of February I was the only one there," reports Terry F. about the off-season experience.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained bathhouses and grounds as standout features. "The campground bathrooms were clean and the shower temperature & water pressure were phenomenal," writes a visitor to Puma Campground, highlighting amenities that exceed expectations at state park facilities.
Spacious, level sites: Lazy Day Campground receives praise for its site layout and comfort. "Sites are well spaced and clean," notes one reviewer, while another mentions "The sites are wide, so beautiful, just the right amount of shade and sun."
Sense of privacy: Despite being developed campgrounds, many sites offer separation from neighbors. "Like the forest feel of the sites, with found coverage between the sites, giving a nice sense of privacy," notes Nathan P. about Puma Campground's layout that maintains natural buffers between campsites.
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Several campgrounds require preparation for uneven terrain. "Our site was pretty unlevel and it took some work and levelers to get it straight," reports Stacy D. about Puma Campground, while recommending riding around to find more level options if available.
Seasonal considerations: Mark Twain Lake campgrounds experience significant seasonal changes. Coyote Campground receives high marks for off-season visits with one camper noting, "We visited twice in the off-season we loved the campground so much. It's quiet and secluded."
Limited services: Some conservation areas have minimal facilities. Hunnewell Lake Conservation Area provides basic amenities as noted by a visitor: "Campground consists of open grassy areas with picnic tables and fire grates. The campground slopes toward the lake, so finding level ground is a challenge."
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning for children: Schedule activities around available programming hours at family-oriented campgrounds. At Yogi Bears Jellystone Park, "The activities are not all day, so plan on some campside entertainment before 10am and after 6pm," advises one parent.
Boat rentals for kids: Hunnewell Lake Conservation Area provides complimentary watercraft. "They had rowboats and canoes you could paddle around in. You just needed your own life jacket. The boats were free," explains Patti M. about this budget-friendly water activity.
Multi-generational appeal: Mark Twain Lake has attractions for various age groups. At Coyote Campground, one visitor noted, "We didn't go out on the lake, but agreed that we would love to come back here with a boat. The lake is huge... Be sure to check out Mark Twain's Birthplace!"
Tips from RVers
Limited connections: Most campgrounds offer electric-only hookups with shared water access. "We were on the Puma Loop in site 070. It was fairly flat with few neighbors," reports one RVer, mentioning the site specifics that worked well for their setup.
Connectivity options: For those needing to stay connected, Hanson Hills Campground offers reliable service. "Great AT&T service. Very peaceful," notes Mathew H., while Puma Campground provides "WiFi coverage [that] was excellent" according to another visitor.
Hookup placement considerations: When glamping near Mark Twain Lake at higher-end facilities, hookup locations can affect site choice. At Lazy Day Campground, a visitor observed the practical layout: "Sites are well laid out and easy to maneuver. Full hook ups or tent sites are available to meet the needs of the camper."
