Mark Twain National Forest

Lane Spring Recreation Area

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This recreation area is a jewel of the Ozarks set along Little Piney Creek and provides easy access from Highway 63. This very popular area is a gathering place for a day’s outing. There are two trails and the creek, a Wild Trout Management Area, has a rainbow trout population as well as bass and sunfish. A sidewalk leads from the parking lot to a shaded stone patio overlooking tranquil Lane Spring. The beautiful surroundings have made it a popular spot for weddings.

Area Attractions

Campground, Restrooms and Water: 17 single campsites (6 site with electric) and 1 double site all offer table, tent pad, lantern post, and fire ring. Drinking water and vault toilets are centrally located. On-site host will assist you. Entrance gate may be closed from 10 pm to 6 am. Camp sites are $8 ($15 with Electric) and $16 for the double site. A brochure is available for online viewing or printable document, 120k, pdf format).

Picnic Area and Pavilions: 2 large pavilions with electricity, mowed playing field, and playground for children. Daily rental for pavilions: $34.00 through Recreation.gov or by calling 877-444-6777. Open March 1 through October 31. Several individual picnic sites provide a table and grill for picnicking under a shade tree.

Trails: Blossom Rock Trail (1.25 miles); Cedar Bluff Trail (1.5 miles) hiking only. Horses are not allowed in the recreational area.

Fishing and Swimming: Fishing, swimming and wading are enjoyed in Little Piney Creek.

How to get here:

From Rolla, MO go 12 miles south on Hwy 63, turn west onto Forest Road 1892 (marked by a large Forest Service sign). Follow this road for 1.5 miles to the picnic area and go a little farther to the campground.

Open March 1 through October 31
Day use fees are $2 per car; $10 per bus. The pavilions should be reserved well ahead of time and camp sites are available on a first come basis.