Hazel Creek Campground

Star4.45
81 reviews
Hazel Creek Campground entrance, Hwy Z North, Brazil Road/Co Rd 657 area

Quick Facts

883 ft

Price

Free

Booking

First-Come

Sites

10 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Potosi/Fredericktown Ranger District site

Official Website
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Hazel Creek Campground
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
No fees are required for this campground. Dispersed camping rules apply as outlined under Mark Twain National Forest guidelines.
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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USFS
Provider
573-438-5427sm.fs.marktwainnf@usda.gov
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What Campers Say

4.45

Recommended

Based on 81 reviews

73 Google reviews

Most mentioned

peacefullocation

Some mention

noise

"User reviews highlight the campground's natural beauty, free access, and primitive nature. However, some campers report noise issues due to generators and off-road vehicles, as well as concerns about human and dog behavior."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

Hazel Creek Campground entrance, Hwy Z North, Brazil Road/Co Rd 657 area

Hazel Creek Campground

Hazel Creek Campground entrance, Hwy Z North, Brazil Road/Co Rd 657 area

Driving directionsFrom the intersection of MO State Hwy 21 and MO State Hwy 8 in Potosi, head West on Hwy 8 approx. 0.2 mile to Hwy P. Turn Left onto Hwy P and head West/South for approx. 14 miles to Hwy C. Turn Right onto Hwy C and head West for approx. 4.1 miles to Hwy Z on your right. Turn Right and head North onto Hwy Z (aka Brazil Rd/Co Rd 657) for approx. 3.1 miles to the campground entrance on your left.
The campground is accessible via a series of paved roads including Hwy 8, Hwy P, Hwy C, and Hwy Z (Brazil Road/Co Rd 657). However, some user reviews note that rutted areas along the access roads may be challenging during rain seasons, requiring off-road vehicles.
Nearby places
Potosi, MO - approximately 22.4 miles, 30-35 minutes by car.
Nearby supplies
Closest grocery and camping supplies available in Potosi, MO, approximately 22.4 miles from the campground. No supplies available at the campground itself
campers must pack in everything they need.

Best Time to Camp at Hazel Creek Campground

Experience the full drama of Missouri's changing seasons at Hazel Creek, where winter transforms the forest into a crystalline wonderland with temperatures dipping to a brisk 28°F. As frost paints the morning landscape and rain drums on tent walls, the campground reveals its quieter, contemplative side. Come summer, the forest awakens in earnest, with temperatures climbing to a comfortable 88°F, perfect for trail adventures. The humid air carries the scent of wildflowers and damp earth, while cooling creek waters offer respite from afternoon heat. Spring and fall paint the canopy in spectacular colors, making every season a unique chapter in your camping story.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
3.5 / 5

Swimming holes and trail access are summer draws but can be hot and busier on weekends.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Wooded Ozark setting implies strong fall color and excellent hiking conditions.

Best
Spring(Mar-May)
4.0 / 5

Spring offers trails, water access, and displays of new growth — great for hiking and wildlife.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
3.0 / 5
Top 14% in MO

Open year-round; winter is quiet and scenic but very cold and no winter facilities.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: No peak pricing periods; open year-round with free camping.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open year-round, January through December.
  • Current Alerts: Lead exposure advisory for children under six due to contamination near the smelter area.

About Hazel Creek Campground

Nestled in the heart of Mark Twain National Forest, Hazel Creek Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic wilderness experience. This primitive camping haven draws OHV enthusiasts, equestrians, and mountain bikers to its rugged trails, where history and nature intertwine. Here, where the legendary Trail of Tears once passed and remnants of America's Old Lead Belt still whisper stories of the past, modern explorers find solace around crackling campfires. Each campsite comes equipped with the essentials—a sturdy table, fire ring, and lantern post—while the absence of modern amenities like running water and restrooms preserves the true backcountry experience. Pack in, pack out, and prepare for an unforgettable journey into Missouri's untamed wilderness.
Hazel Creek Campground supports primitive camping with sites for tents, RVs, and group camping. It is particularly suitable for self-sufficient campers.
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Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit
  • No explicit stay limit mentioned
  • dispersed camping typically follows general forest rules.

Amenities available

Fire rings
Picnic tables

Activities you can enjoy

Hazel Creek Campground provides a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, biking, horse riding, and historical exploration. The Ozark Trail runs through the campground, offering opportunities for day hikes and backpacking.
HikingThe Trace Creek Section (24 miles) and Courtois Section (45 miles) of the Ozark Trail are accessible, catering to hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians.
SwimmingA creek near the campground offers opportunities to cool off and swim. Some reviewers noted a 'good swimming hole' about an eighth of a mile from the campgrounds.
BikingThe trails, including sections of the Ozark Trail, are open to mountain biking with varied terrain and scenic routes.
Wildlife viewingCampers can enjoy observing local wildlife in the remote and natural surroundings.
Cultural and Educational ProgramsThe campground features a historic lead smelter foundation and is part of the Trail of Tears National Historic Trail, with interpretive signs providing information.
Winter Activities
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsRecent test results suggest health risks associated with lead exposure in areas near the smelter. Campers are advised to avoid areas with tailings and wash toys, vehicles, and clothing thoroughly before returning home.
Active AlertsLead exposure advisory for children under six due to contamination near the smelter area.
No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.
No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

Weather at Hazel Creek Campground

Reviews

4.5
81 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
Hazel Creek Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's natural beauty, free access, and primitive nature. However, some campers report noise issues due to generators and off-road vehicles, as well as concerns about human and dog behavior.
Review Summaries
Based on 81 reviews

What Campers Love

Campers praised the remote and peaceful atmosphere, creekside locations, and free camping. Reviewers also noted the beauty of the Ozark Trail and proximity to a swimming hole.
Based on 81 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include noise from generators, ATVs, and music, as well as the lack of amenities like trash facilities and drinking water. Some reviews also mentioned litter and sites occupied by...
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Based on 81 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend visiting during weekdays to avoid crowds and noise. Bringing your own water supply and packing out all trash are essential. Some suggest exploring the swimming hole nearby and...
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Based on 81 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Weekends tend to be noisier and busier, while weekdays offer solitude and a quieter experience. Seasonal weather may range from very cold in winter to oppressive heat in summer.
Based on 81 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Great peaceful place if you want to disconnect from society." "Awesome place for free camping with a clear creek to swim in!" "Expect noise on weekends – generators and ATVs."
Based on 81 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Some campsites are noted to be close to the creek or offer better access to trails, but no specific site numbers are mentioned. One camper mentioned a swimming hole about an eighth of a mile from the...
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Based on 81 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility reviews are limited, but the lack of potable water and restrooms may be challenging for some visitors.
Based on 81 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Dogs are allowed but must be leashed. Some users reported off-leash dogs approaching their own pets, which may be a concern for pet owners.
Based on 81 reviews

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Last updated January 5, 2026
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