Crossroads Access
Crossroads Access is a carry-in access that provides parking and a foot-trail to the Big Piney River for canoeing and fishing.
You will need to carry your canoes and kayaks down the 100 foot-trail.
Starting from East Gate and floating down the river you can do a nice short paddle of 3 miles to Crossroads River Access.
For a longer trip of 8 miles you can float from Crossroads down to Bookers Bend.
General Information
January - December
When visiting, please remember
- 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; please pack out all your trash.
- Fireworks are prohibited.
- Follow the Leave No Trace Principles
- The river can rise rapidly, be aware of changing conditions.
Canoe and kayak launch only
No fees
When boating with your dog, follow all Missouri State boating laws and only allow your animal on pet-friendly shorelines.
- Use care when getting your dog in and out of the boat to ensure their safety.
- Consider both you and your dog wearing a life jacket.
- Provide shade for your pet.
- Remember to bring their food and water as it may be unsafe for them to drink lake water.
- Occasionally, bring your dog to land so that they can relieve themselves.
There are no outfitters authorized to operate at this location. Check with the http://www.missouricanoe.org/ for information on rentals.
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
Latitude / Longitude
Latitude: 37.766662
Longitude: -92.017622
Directions
From Rolla,
- head west on Interstate 44 for 16 miles;
- Take exit 169 for Hwy J, follow Hwy J to the left/south for 10 miles.
- At the junction of J Highway and M Highway go past, about 300 feet, and Crossroads Access is on the right.
Parking
circular parking for 5 vehicles
Facility and Amenity Information
Accessibility
Restrooms
Restrooms are not available at this site.
Water
Potable water is not available at this site.
Recreation Opportunities
Fishing - River/Stream Info
This river has variating runs and riffles with some pools. The bottom is mostly gravel.
The boat launch is single-lane gravel launch.
The bottom of the river is gravel, and can be a little murky when it rains. This is a smallmouth bass special management area with M-DOC and is stocked with bluegill, catfish and largemouth bass
Fish Species
smallmouth, largemouth, rock bass (or google-eye), panfish
Special Designations
Smallmouth Bass Special Management Area
Fishing Mode
boat, shore, wade
Fishing Platform
None
Water Temperature
Cold
Fishing Method
fly, pole/rod & reel
Boating - Non-Motorized Info
The river at this launch is deep and water is slower moving.
Recreation Groups
This is a great, family-friendly river for those looking for a leisurely trip with beautiful scenery.