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Recreation Region: Poplar Bluff Area

Beaver Lake Recreation Area

Beaver Lake is 15 acres in size. Primitive camping is allowed but no facilities are provided. There is a gravel ramp for boat access. The lake has been stocked with channel catfish, bluegill, redear sunfish, and black bass.

The recreation area is surrounded by private ownership.

Current Conditions
Due to a breach in the dam the lake level has dropped significantly. When repairs are made we will provide an update.

General Information

Dispersed camping is the term used for free camping anywhere in the National Forest OUTSIDE of a designated campground.

Dispersed camping means there are no toilets, no structures, no trash cans, no treated water, and no fire grates.

There are extra responsibilities required for this type of camp. It's a must to educate yourself before you try it, but we hope the adventure of dispersed camping in the Mark Twain National Forest calls to you!

  1. Pick a Campsite and follow the Leave No Trace Principles
  2. Camp 100 feet away from trails and water sources.
  3. Treat any water found in the area before consuming it.
  4. Human waste (Feces) must be buried at least 6 inches deep and covered.
  5. Pack out all of your garbage.

January - December

Day Use: 6 am to 10 pm

When visiting, please remember

  • Missouri Fishing regulations apply
  • Dogs must be on a 6 foot leash in the day use area
  • No trash containers; please pack out all your trash.
  • Fireworks are prohibited.
  • Boats are allowed, only electric motors are permitted.

No Fees are required for this site.

Dogs are allowed at campsites and developed recreation areas; however, they should not be allowed to run loose in recreation areas where they will disturb other forest visitors. Be mindful of the impact a barking dog can have on other forest visitors.

  • Keep dogs on a six-foot, or shorter, leash when they are not inside an enclosed vehicle or tent.
  • Store dog food in bear-resistant containers and feed your pet away from the campsite.
  • Pick up and bag your dog’s waste. Place it in a provided trash receptacle or pack it out.
  • Do not leave your dog unattended at any time.
  • Do not leave your dog in the vehicle on a hot day.
  • Keep your dog in your tent or vehicle at night.
  • Ensure that there is ample water available for your pet.

USDA Forest Service Logo

Address: 1420 Maud St. Poplar Bluff, MO 63901
Phone: 573-785-1475
Hours: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm, Monday to Friday; District Offices closed 1 - 1:30 for lunch (Closed on federal holidays)
Office Email: sm.fs.marktwainnf@usda.gov

Getting There

Latitude / Longitude

Latitude: 36.799301

Longitude: -90.62238859

Directions

From Poplar Bluff, MO,

  • take Hwy PP west for 8 miles,
  • Turn left onto Hwy TT and travel for 2 miles;
  • Veer right on Butler County Road 434 and travel for one-half mile.
  • Turn left onto Forest Road 3109 and travel for 4.5 miles,
  • then turn left onto Forest Road 3899 and travel for one-half mile to the recreation site.

Parking

15 vehicles with trailers; parking is on a slope

Facility and Amenity Information

Restrooms

Restrooms are available at this site.

Water

Potable water is not available at this site.

Horse/Pack Animal Information

Horse/Pack animals are not allowed at this site.

Recreation Opportunities

Viewing Wildlife Info

You will occasionally view bald eagles at this site.

The ultimate wildlife viewing experience is watching animals in their habitat. Here are some helpful tips to become a wildlife friendly viewer:

  • Use the right tools - A field guide, a pair of binoculars and a camera. Wear clothing that is appropriate for the season and activity.
  • Watch at dawn and dusk - This is the time when most wildlife species are active enough to view.
  • Keep your distance - Maintain a distance that is comfortable for the wildlife.
  • Stay quiet - Move slowly and quietly to increase your chances of viewing wildlife, and to avoid stressing the animals you wish to watch.
  • Do not feed the wildlife - There is plenty of food available in the wild. Human food can cause digestive problems, provide improper nutrition, and even kill an animal.

An online version of the Missouri Wildlife Viewing Guide is available on their website.

Fishing - Lake & Pond Info

The lake has been stocked with channel catfish, bluegill, redear sunfish, and black bass. There is a gravel boat ramp available for launching small boats. Electric trolling motors only – no gasoline powered boat motors.

Fish Species

channel catfish, bluegill, redear sunfish, and black bass

Fishing Mode

boat

Fishing Platform

None

Fishing Method

Rod & Reel

Boating - Non-Motorized Info

Gravel boat ramp available for launching small boats. Non-motorized boats or electric trolling motors only – no gasoline powered boat motors.

Boating - Motorized Info

Gravel boat ramp available for launching small boats. Non-motorized boats or electric trolling motors only – no gasoline powered boat motors.

Type of Craft

Fishing Boats, Dinghies, Electric Boats, Flat Boats, Jon Boats

Motor Type

electric

Last updated April 25th, 2025