Blossom Rock trailhead
Blossom Rock Trail is a 1.1-mile trail in the Lane Spring Recreation Area. It leads up to the Blossom Rock, which is a sandstone formation that appears to "blossom" forth from the surrounding limestone. The views of the rock outcrop is very pretty and the back half of the trail provides views of the Little Piney River.
The trailhead is at the southern portion of the campground. The trail is a loop to the point where you cross the bridge over the drainage to the rocks. You cross back over the bridge and will return to the campground on the same path you followed to the rocks.
You walk by a drainage stream that will fluctuate with the rain but rarely floods the trail out.
The trail starts along the drainage at the campground level and then turns and goes slightly uphill along the base of the ridge. The trail is narrow and fairly bumpy from rocks and roots.
General Information
Safety:
- During temperate months, be prepared for biting insects, poison ivy and high temperatures.
- Be aware of hunting seasons.
For more safety tips visit the Safety section of the website.
Camping
Camping is available at Lane Springs
January - December
Pass information can be found on the Passes page of the website.
On the Trail
- Hiking is permitted.
- No motorized vehicles, horses or bikes are permitted.
At the Trailheads
- No overnight camping in day use areas at any time of year.
- Dogs must be on a 6 foot leash in the day use area
- Fireworks are prohibited.
Day Use
- Per car: $2/day
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: 108 S. Sam Houston Blvd. Houston, MO 65483
Phone: 417-967-4194
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
Directions
From Rolla, MO
- go 12 miles south on Hwy 63;
- turn right/west onto Forest Road 1892 (marked by entrance sign). Follow this road 1.5 miles to recreation area where the road dead ends.
Travel Considerations
Winter Use
The trail is still available for use when the gate to Lane Springs is closed. You will need to park at the small parking area provided next to the gate at the top of the hill.
Parking
Day Use: multiple parking lots that can fit 75 vehicles total
Facility and Amenity Information
Accessibility
Toilets are accessible.
Restrooms
Restrooms are not available at this site.
Drinking water at Lane Springs
Water
Potable water is available at this site.
Drinking water at Lane Springs
Picnic Tables
Picnic tables are available at this site.
Picnic area at Lane Springs
Recreation Opportunities
Day Hikes Info
The Blossom Rock Trail is located in Lane Spring Recreation Area. Lane Springs is situated along Little Piney Creek in a beautiful hardwood area. Its location and beautiful surroundings make it a popular destination.
Viewing Scenery Info
As you stroll along the paved path from the day use area, theres a short walk to the Little Piney Creek, shaded by sycamore, cypress, oaks and many other trees. The trails traverse through lush bottomland vegetation, where even in the dry season it's still wet, green, and abundant with wildflowers.
Along the way you will pass a crystal clear spring. The spring feeds a pool that is about 25 feet across where you can see the sand shifting through the clear water as the spring feeds into the pool.
Lane Spring is a great place to enjoy the quiet of the woods from the 10 foot by 10 foot rock observation deck. Stop and rest on the wooden bench before heading down the stone steps that lead into the spring. Many visitors enjoy dipping their toes in the shallow, but bracing 60 degree water.
As you continue your walk, just a few feet away from the spring you will find the Little Piney Creek where many enjoy swimming and fishing.
Picnicking - Single Info
Seven individual accessible picnic sites are dispersed throughout the large open picnic area in Lane Springs. Most are in shaded areas, and some are located in small groups. All of the sites have a picnic table and a pedestal grill.
Accessible vault toilets and water fountains/spigots are centrally located within the picnic area.
No. of Sites
7 individual picnic sites
No. of Accessible Sites
The tables are accessible, there is no paved/cement path to the tables.