Established Camping

Mark Twain National Forest Lane Spring Recreation Area

1 Review

About

USDA Forest Service

Mark Twain National Forest

Overview

Lane Spring Recreation Area provides a peaceful setting along Little Piney Creek and a scenic patio overlooking beautiful Lane Spring. A large, accessible picnic area with two pavilions can be reserved. The site has multiple first come first serve campsites if an overnight stay is desired. A variety of outdoor recreation opportunities are in the area.

Recreation

Trout fishing is popular along the portion of the creek nearest Lane Spring, as it is managed by a wild trout fishery. The fish population is self-sustained instead of being stocked. Only artificial lures and flies may be used, and a daily limit is applied of one trout measuring 18 inches or longer. Bass and sunfish are also plentiful. The 1.25-mile Blossom Rock Trail and the 1.5-mile Cedar Bluff Trail traverse through lush bottomland vegetation with abundant wildflowers, before climbing to views of the river and rock outcroppings. Birding and wildlife viewing is popular along the trails.

Facilities

The recreation area offers a picnic area with two group picnic pavilions, each equipped with tables, grills and electric outlets. Each can accommodate up to 100 people. If unreserved, the pavilions are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Each pavillion has 10-20 parking spots with handicap accessible paths to pavillions. These parking spots are not reservable, however there are additional parking spaces that have access to the spring and playground. Additional individual picnic sites are available near the spring. Several family campsites are available as well. Each site is equipped with a table, lantern post and campfire ring with grill. Vault toilets and drinking water are provided.

Natural Features

The recreation area is situated along Little Piney Creek, with some waterfront campsites available. A beautiful hardwood forest covers the area, which lies in the northwestern portion of the Mark Twain National Forest. An accessible shaded stone patio overlooks tranquil Lane Spring, a bubbling spring with watercress and native plant species. It is bordered by a variety of trees, including sycamore, cypress, oak and many others.

Reservation Info

Day Use opened for season on March 1 and campground opens for season April 15. Water will not be available until May 1.

Campsites are first come, first served. Reservation needed for the group picnic pavilion

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Marty C.

Guide

Reviewed Feb. 10, 2021

Beautiful Small Campground Along A Wild Trout Stream

This is a beautiful Forest Service Campground located 13 miles south of Rolla Missouri. There are six 30 amp electric sites and the remainder are dry camps. There are pit toilets and water spickets located throughout the campground. The campground is open seasonally from about April until the end of October. It is situated along the little Piney River which offers good fishing for wild rainbow trout. There is also a good swimming hole for the warmer months. A nice short walkway leads from the picnic area to Lane Spring which pumps out sounds of gallons of cold water daily. In the day use area there are two picnic shelters and a picnic area.

There is a little bit of Highway noise from u.s. 63 but it is not overwhelming. There are almost always sites available here however demand for the six electric sites is high. 50% off with senior or disabled veteran pass.

This is a great spot to spend a few days or to overnight on your travels.