Bell Mountain Ottery Creek Trailhead
This trailhead accesses the Taum Sauk section of the Ozark Trail (OT).
This section of the Ozark Trail connects the Fredericktown Unit with the Potosi Unit traversing two state parks---Johnson Shut-ins and Taum Sauk Mountain---and the Devil's Tollgate and Bell Mountain Wilderness.
When entering the wilderness from the Ottery Creek Trailhead a short, 2 mile trail will take you to an intersection for the Taum Sauk Ozark Trail section and the Bell Mountain trail. If you head south you will be on the Taum Sauk, if you go north on the 1 mile connector trail you will be on the Bell Mountain trail.
The trail can be challenging as it is rugged and rocky, you start at the base of a mountain and work your way up, so there is a lot of climbing.
We recommend you download a digital map or print a map before heading into the wilderness.
If starting from Ottery Creek the trail loop is 12 miles. If you start at the Bell Mountain North Trailhead it's around an 11.7 mile hike.
Equestrian users are encouraged to start their trip at Bell Mountain North Trailhead.
General Information
January - December
6 a.m. to 10 p.m.
For additional information on the Ozark Trail, including trail conditions and detailed maps, visit the Ozark Trail Association.
Dispersed Camping is allowed along the trail:
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!
- Pick a Campsite and follow the Leave No Trace Principles
- Camp 100 feet away from trails and water sources.
- Treat any water found in the area before consuming it.
- Human waste (Feces) must be buried at least 6 inches deep and covered.
- Pack out all of your garbage.
Trail Use
Dogs are allowed on hiking trails, as long as they are kept on a leash. Unleashed dogs can pose a danger to your pet, the natural resources of the area, and other forest visitors.
- Leashes must be six feet, or shorter, when in developed recreation sites, including trails within the boundaries (36 CFR 261.16(j)) when they are not inside an enclosed vehicle or tent.
- Yield your leashed dog around other hikers and horses.
- Pack out your dogs waste or bury it 100 feet from water and trails.
Camping
- Keep dogs on a six-foot, or shorter, leash when they are not inside a 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.
Wildlife
- Do not allow them to interact with wildlife
Address: 10019 W. State Hwy. 8 Potosi, MO 63664
Phone: 573-438-5427
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: 37.625792
Longitude: -90.911136
Directions
From St. Louis, take Hwy. 21 south to Hwy. 32, then west to Hwy A and south to the northern trailhead
Parking
8 cars
Facility and Amenity Information
Restrooms
Restrooms are not available at this site.
Water
Potable water is not available at this site.
Most trailheads do not have potable water. Plan accordingly.
Recreation Opportunities
Horseback Riding Info
This section of the Ozark Trail connects the Fredericktown District with the Potosi District traversing two state parks---Johnson Shut-ins and Taum Sauk Mountain---and the Devil's Tollgate and Bell Mountain Wilderness.
Day Hikes Info
This section of the Ozark Trail connects the Fredericktown District with the Potosi District traversing two state parks---Johnson Shut-ins and Taum Sauk Mountain---and the Devil's Tollgate and Bell Mountain Wilderness.
Backpacking Info
This section of the Ozark Trail connects the Fredericktown District with the Potosi District traversing two state parks---Johnson Shut-ins and Taum Sauk Mountain---and the Devil's Tollgate and Bell Mountain Wilderness.
Viewing Scenery Info
The views near the summit of Bell Mountain are some of the best in the Ozarks. From here you can see the rest of the St. Francis mountain range.
Concrete pilings of an old fire tower are right at the top of the summit. The tower is no longer there.
Recreation Groups
This 9,143 acre wilderness is part of the St. Francois Mountains, one of the oldest landforms in North America.