Mark Twain Lake region offers multiple cabin options within a short drive of Stoutsville, Missouri. The area sits at approximately 700 feet above sea level with rolling terrain surrounding the 18,000-acre lake. Winter temperatures can drop into the 20s while summer brings hot, humid days with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F, making air conditioning a valuable cabin amenity.
What to do
Fishing access points: Puma Campground at Mark Twain State Park provides multiple lake access paths. "The site 98 in the Puma area quite nice with a little more grassy area. Wonderful boat ramp off the beach. Great for kayaks. Nice fishing area," notes a reviewer who visited in fall.
Hiking trails: The park system maintains several marked routes through forested areas. "Several hiking trails in the area will get you in touch with nature and an abundance of deer," according to a visitor who stayed at Ray Behrens Campground. Trails range from easy 1-mile loops to more challenging 5-mile paths.
Water activities: Rental equipment is available seasonally. "Free rentals on pontoon boats, kayaks, and paddle boats," mentions a reviewer who stayed at Cedar Creek Resort, making it practical for visitors without their own watercraft.
What campers like
Level camping pads: Ray Behrens Campground receives consistent praise for site construction. "Long paved (asphalt) sites. Picnic tables and fire rings at the RV sites," writes one camper, while another notes "Great level concrete campsites!" This represents an improvement over other area options.
Privacy between sites: Puma Campground features natural spacing. "Like the forest feel of the sites, with found coverage between the sites, giving a nice sense of privacy," explains a recent visitor. Sites 77 and 82 offer partial lake views according to regular campers.
Clean facilities: Multiple reviewers comment on shower house maintenance. "The bathrooms and shower houses are very clean and well maintained. We met both hosts and they were friendly and accommodating," states a visitor who appreciated the regular cleaning schedule at Mark Twain State Park.
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds require additional equipment. "Beautiful area, but honestly not sure if any campsite is truly level. Be prepared," warns a Puma Campground visitor. Another camper noted, "Our site was pretty unlevel and it took some work and levelers to get it straight."
Seasonal considerations: Visit timing affects experience significantly. "Very few campers in late April. Drove down from Minnesota to find some spring weather. Success," writes a visitor to Puma Campground. The shoulder seasons offer reduced crowds but variable weather conditions.
Supply planning: Stock up before arrival. "The closest store for provisions is about 15 miles away, but ice and firewood is available on site from both hosts," explains a camper who stayed at Mark Twain State Park. Grocery shopping requires advance planning.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Ray Behrens Campground provides recreational structures. "We ended up with a spot that we loved since it was close to the playground. It was closed, but the basketball court was open to roll and the field was open so the kids could run around and play catch," notes a family that visited during shoulder season.
Swimming options: Different access points offer varied experiences. "The trails lead you to the lake, but a short drive to the other side of lake they had a lake beach entry to swim," explains a parent who camped with children at Ray Behrens.
Entertainment variety: Mark Twain Lake Jellystone Park offers structured activities. "Mini golf was booming. They had nice pavilion areas for gatherings. There was also a large swimming pool," mentions a visitor, making this location suitable for families seeking organized recreation options.
Tips from RVers
Utilities arrangement: Ray Behrens offers comprehensive hookup options. "Plenty of rocked lounging or tent space with each site. Good size fire pits, lantern post, and an aluminum picnic table on a concrete pad," reports a visitor, noting "The site close to the lake are not full hookups. The others are."
Cabin alternatives: Cedar Creek Resort & RV Park provides waterside accommodations. "The cabins are spectacular and right on the water! Free rentals on pontoon boats, kayaks, and paddle boats," explains a visitor who brought extended family. These cabins near Stoutsville provide an RV alternative with similar amenities.
Road conditions: Some access roads require preparation. "The only thing I didn't love was the gravel road all the way in. Our truck and camper was covered with gravel dust," reports an RV owner who stopped at Cedar Creek Resort, suggesting arriving vehicles may need post-trip cleaning.
