Camping near Mark Twain Lake
Mark Twain Lake in northeastern Missouri features several well-established campgrounds operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and Missouri State Parks. The lake region includes developed camping areas such as Ray Behrens, Indian Creek, and Frank Russell campgrounds, offering a range of accommodations from tent sites to RV hookups and cabins. Puma Campground in Mark Twain State Park and the Mark Twain Lake Jellystone Park provide additional camping options, with some locations featuring cabin rentals and glamping facilities. Most campgrounds in the area maintain paved pads with picnic tables and fire rings, making them suitable for both tent and RV camping.
Seasonal operation typically runs from April through November at most Mark Twain Lake campgrounds, with peak visitation during summer months. One camper noted, "We stayed for a week at the Ray Behrens campground. We stayed at site 113 in the Little Blue Stem area, we backed in and had full hook ups for $26 a night." The region experiences hot summers and mild springs and falls, making shoulder seasons potentially more comfortable for camping. Many sites require reservations, especially during summer weekends and holidays. Campgrounds generally provide clean restroom facilities, though some visitors mention that not all shower houses may be operational simultaneously. Most developed sites offer electric hookups, with some featuring full hookup capabilities including water and sewer connections.
The shoreline location represents a primary attraction for campers visiting Mark Twain Lake. According to visitor feedback, "Ray Behrens has great camping sites with three sections - Deer Run, Cedar Ridge and Little Blue Stem." Several campgrounds provide lake access via hiking trails, though swimming areas may be limited due to the lake's terrain. As one visitor observed, "This is a man-made lake and there are sharp drop offs all the way around." Boating access appears as a significant amenity, with marinas and boat ramps available near several campgrounds. Wildlife viewing opportunities include deer throughout the property. Many campsites feature shade trees and ample spacing between sites, with visitors frequently commenting on the peaceful atmosphere and well-maintained grounds.
