Council Bluff (WBR) Campground

About this site

The Council Bluff Recreation Area, located next to the largest lake on the Mark Twain National Forest, is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy the outdoors. The area provides ample opportunities for camping, picnicking, hiking, fishing, swimming and more. The site is large and spread out, the campground and beach are about a 1 mile hike apart, the hike/bike is downhill from the campground to the beach, but uphill coming back. Located in southern Missouri, the Council Bluff Lake was created by a dam built across Big River. It is 440 acres in size and 87 feet deep in some places. The Wild Boar Campground and sheltered picnic area are available for individual families or large groups. The Chapel Hill Beach is at the eastern end of the campground and provides 1.25 acres of sandy beach. The beach is accessible via a short walkway from the parking area. Boating and paddling is a popular pastime on the lake, but all boats on the lake must operate at a no-wake speed. Visitors can access the water via the two boat ramps located at the lake. Fishing is also available. Anglers can expect a catch of a variety of freshwater fish, including bass, bluegills, catfish and crappies. The 12-mile Council Bluff Trail encircles the lake, with spurs to the campground. Hikers can enjoy scenic views of the lake and a look at the Mark Twain wilderness. The Ozark Trail connects to the Council Bluff Trail at Trace Creek mile 15. Waterfowl hunting is allowed on Council Bluff Lake and the nearby Enough Fields provide upland game opportunities. A variety of wildlife makes its home in the heavily wooded area. Fee info: Concessionaire Day Use: $5 per vehicle $10 per bus $25 per season Group Site: $50 per day Forest Service Overnight Fees: Single Site: $15 per night Double Site: $25 per night Group Site: $50 per night for 0-50 people; $100 per night for 51-74 people; Additional Info: The Wild Boar Campground offers 39 single sites, 7 double sites, 9 walk-in tent sites, and 4 group sites. Sites include tables, fire rings, lantern posts, and grills. RVs up to 40 feet can fit at most sites. Vault toilets and drinking water are available in the campground. Coin-operated showers, flush toilets, and drinking water are at Chapel Hill Beach. Campground open April to October; day use year-round.

Amenities & access

Maximum vehicle length

40 feet

Contact

• https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/mtnf/recarea/?recid=21844

Location

37.722610, -90.937792