Mark Twain National Forest

Your independent guide to 1.5 million acres of Ozark hills, spring-fed streams and trails across southern Missouri. Find hikes, float trips, fishing spots and places to stay.

Elephant Rocks State Park - Hiking

Elephant Rocks State Park is the perfect destination for a day full of fun and adventure for the whole family. Giant granite boulders scattered throughout the park make this a unique experience for hikers and spectators alike...

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Hughes Mountain - Hiking

Rising 380 feet from the Big River floodplain in one of the oldest mountain ranges in the country, Hughes Mountain Natural Area covers 462 acres and offers visitors a chance to see a unique geological wonder...

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Find Adventure in Mark Twain National Forest

With 1.5 million acres of public land, over 750 miles of trails, and 350 miles of perennial streams; Mark Twain National Forest has everything you could think of to fill your vacation with excitement and relaxation. Miles and miles of trails wind through the various sections of Mark Twain Forest that are perfect for hiking, backpacking, horseback riding, mountain biking, and motorized vehicle use. The rivers and streams that meander through these public lands provide excellent locations for swimming, floating, kayaking, and canoeing whether you are looking for a leisurely float down a lazy river or a riveting whitewater experience.

The Mark Twain National Forest boasts 19 Natural Areas, which retain their natural beauty through careful protection and management, and 7 Wilderness Areas, which have very little impact from human development, within the forest’s boundaries. To maintain the pristine environments of these public lands for generations to come, please practice “Leave No Trace” environmental ethics. Please be sure that anything you bring into the forest leaves with you or is placed in designated receptacles.

Whether you are looking for active family vacation experiences, educational experiences, beautiful vistas, or outdoorsmen adventures; the Mark Twain Forest has something for everyone. Start planning your next foray into nature right here in Missouri. Experience nature at its finest: experience the Mark Twain National Forest.

Elephant Rocks State Park

Elephant Rocks State Park is a perfect destination for a full day of family fun. Nine giant bulbous granite boulders are scattered throughout the park making this a unique experience for hikers and spectators.

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Hughes Mountain

A one-mile climb to the Devil’s Honeycomb, 1.5-billion-year-old volcanic rock columns with some of the best sunset views in the region.

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Bell Mountain

Come and enjoy the pristine wilderness of Bell Mountain. Wilderness Areas are the most untouched pieces of American soil. This hike is best for experienced hikers only as navigational tools are...

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Taum Sauk Mountain

Taum Sauk Mountain State Park has trails that guide you through some of the most beautiful sections of the Ozark Trail. The large parking lot accommodates many vehicles, however, the popularity of this area can cause parking to be a bit tight especially on the busy summer weekends.

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Johnson’s Shut-Ins

Come enjoy this fantastic little piece of natural Missouri at Johnson Shut-ins State Park. Swimming is the most popular activity at the park with so many visitors that the number of guests allowed into the water must be limited during the summer months in order to preserve the safety of visitors and natural beauty of the area.

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