About the Area

Mark Twain National Forest is in the mostly rural part of Missouri commonly referred to as “the Ozarks.” Parts of the national forest are within an hour’s drive of the urban centers of St. Louis, Springfield, and Columbia and the tourist town of Branson.

Small towns dot the primarily hilly and forested landscape. Outdoor recreation and wood products are prominent industries.

Lakes, rivers, and streams are common. The Ozark National Scenic Riverways lies near the middle of the national forest. Mingo National Wildlife Refuge and Lake Wappapello Recreation Area (Corps of Engineers) are on the eastern boundary. Table Rock Lake Recreation Area (Corps of Engineers) and Wilson Creek National Battlefield are just south of Springfield on the southwestern boundary. State forestry and wildlife conservation areas are sprinkled among national forest land units.

Fort Leonard Wood, a US Army base with a 35,000 daily population, is surrounded by National Forest on three sides west of Rolla.