OT - Marble Creek/Crane Lake section


Area Status: Open

This section of the Ozark Trail which eventually will total approximately 21 miles runs from Marble Creek Campground to Crane Lake Picnic Area, with the Crane Lake Trail circling the lake.

At a Glance

Fees: No fees
Usage: Light
Restrictions: Camp at least 100 feet from the trail, treat all water used, bury human waste and pack out all trash
Closest Towns: Ironton, Fredericktown
Water: None
Operated By: Forest Service and Ozark Trail Association

General Information

Directions: From St. Louis, take Hwy. 21 south to Hwy. E just south of Arcadia, Missouri, then, east to Marble Creek Campground.

Recreation Map

Map showing recreational areas. Map Information

Activities

Mountain Biking

Dispersed Camping

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.

Day Hiking

Backpacking

Horse Riding

Viewing Wildlife

Viewing Plants

Viewing Scenery

Recreation Areas

Recreation Activities

Location

 
  Area/Length : 
21 miles

  Latitude : 
37.44998347

  Longitude : 
-90.54014045