Blue Hole Trailhead
The Blue Hole Trailhead provides access to the North Fork Section of the Ozark Trail and the Ridge Runner National Recreation Trail.
Thirteen miles of maintained trails wind along ridgetops and hollows among mixed oak hardwoods and southern pine. There are two trailheads that access the trail. There is parking available at both trailheads.
The Ridge Runner and Ozark Trails run jointly from Blue Hole Trailhead to the northern loop of the North Fork Section of the Ozark Trial.
General Information
Camping
North Fork Recreation Area Trailer and tent camping at North Fork Recreation Area. All sites are first come, first served.
Dispersed camping is allowed along the Ozark Trail. There are no toilets, no structures, no trash cans, no treated water, and no fire grates available.
Safety:
- During temperate months, be prepared for biting insects, poison ivy and high temperatures.
- A good map and compass , along with knowledge of utilizing these, are strongly suggested.
- Be aware of hunting seasons.
For more safety tips visit the Safety section of the website.
January - December
Day use - 6 a.m to 10 p.m.
On the Trail
- No motorized vehicles are allowed on the trail or past designated parking areas.
At the Trailhead
- 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
- No trash containers in the parking lot; please pack out all your trash.
- Fireworks are prohibited.
Day Use Fees
Day Use Fees can be paid on-site using the provided fee tubes.
- Fees must be paid using cash or check, no credit card machines are available at any sites.
- Annual and Lifetime passes can be purchased to cover day use fees at USDA Forest Service operated sites.
Day Use:
$2 per vehicle per day
$10 per bus per 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
Contact the ACW Ranger District (Ava, MO) with any questions.
Address: 1006 S. Jefferson Ava, MO 65608
Phone: 417-683-4428
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: 36.835114
Longitude: -92.053601
Directions
From Pomona:
- Travel 9 miles west on P Highway
- Turn left onto AP Highway and travel 3 miles.
- The trailhead will be on the right side of road.
Travel Considerations
For additional information on the Ozark Trail, including trail conditions and detailed maps, visit the Ozark Trail Association.
Parking
Parking at the trailhead can handle about 10 cars.
Facility and Amenity Information
Restrooms
No restroom availableWater
Potable water is not available at this site.
Horse/Pack Animal Information
Horse/Pack animals are allowed at this site.
Nearby Trails
Recreation Opportunities
Day Hikes Info
Thirteen miles of maintained trails wind along ridgetops and hollows among mixed oak hardwoods and southern pine.
Backpacking Info
Thirteen miles of maintained trails wind along ridgetops and hollows among mixed oak hardwoods and southern pine.
Horseback Riding Info
Thirteen miles of maintained trails wind along ridgetops and hollows among mixed oak hardwoods and southern pine.
Biking - Mountain Info
Thirteen miles of maintained trails wind along ridgetops and hollows among mixed oak hardwoods and southern pine.
Recreation Groups
Ridge Runner National Recreation Trail is a 33-mile long trail, with two six-mile loops at either end and a 21-mile section between them.