Loggers Lake Recreation Area
4.2325 reviewsLoggers Lake Recreation Area, Southeast Loggers Lake, Shannon County, Missouri
Quick Facts
800 ftPrice
$10 - $20/night
Booking
First-Come
Sites
14 campsites
Season
Open seasonally from...
Cell
No Service
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
800 ftPrice
$10 - $20/night
Booking
First-Come
Sites
14 campsites
Season
Open seasonally from...
Cell
No Service
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsLoggers Lake Recreation Area
$10.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Overnight use fees are $10/night for single non-electric sites and $20/night for double non-electric sites. Interagency Senior/Access Recreation...
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Standard Site Fee$15.00
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
Total Campsite Fees$15.00
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USFS
Provider573-729-6656sm.fs.marktwainnf@usda.gov
What Campers Say
4.23
Satisfactory
Based on 25 reviews
52 Google reviews
Most mentioned
viewscleanlakewell-maintained
"Loggers Lake Recreation Area is highly regarded for its scenic beauty, peaceful ambiance, and basic but well-maintained facilities. However, the lack of modern amenities like showers or cell service makes it more suited for those looking to disconnect."
Fees & Passes at Loggers Lake Recreation Area
$10 - $20/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: Maximum stay is 14 consecutive days.
Cancellation: Fees are paid at the fee tube provided. Host cannot accept fees.
Prices verified November 17, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Salem Ranger District website.
Best Time to Camp at Loggers Lake Recreation Area
From April through October, Loggers Lake comes alive as nature's perfect retreat. The spring-fed waters maintain refreshingly cool temperatures even during Missouri's warmest days, creating an inviting oasis for summer visitors. Spring arrives with wildflower blooms and excellent fishing, while autumn paints the surrounding forest in brilliant golds and crimsons. The shoulder seasons offer particularly magical moments, with misty mornings giving way to sun-dappled afternoons perfect for lakeside relaxation.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm weather, perfect for water activities. Book early.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Off-season, limited services. Check for closures before visiting.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: April 1 to October 31.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open seasonally from April 1 to October 31.
- Current Alerts: Null
About Loggers Lake Recreation Area
Nestled along the tranquil southeast shore of a pristine 22-acre lake, Loggers Lake Recreation Area offers an escape into Missouri's hidden wilderness. This peaceful retreat, lovingly crafted by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the late 1930s, preserves both natural beauty and American heritage. Here, where crystal-clear spring water feeds the lake and towering trees whisper stories of the past, visitors discover a timeless sanctuary perfect for fishing, reflection, and reconnecting with nature. A touching memorial stands as testament to the young men of the CCC who transformed this landscape into the cherished destination it remains today.
Loggers Lake is primarily suited for tent camping and small RVs, with all sites located around a loop that provides lake views.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time at this living monument to America's conservation legacy. During the Great Depression, young men of the Civilian Conservation Corps arrived here with hope and determination, transforming raw wilderness into a recreational haven. Their skillful hands created not just a fishery, but a lasting gift to future generations. Today, a thoughtfully placed memorial invites quiet contemplation of their sacrifice and vision, while the enduring beauty of their work surrounds every visitor.
Weather and SeasonsFrom April through October, Loggers Lake comes alive as nature's perfect retreat. The spring-fed waters maintain refreshingly cool temperatures even during Missouri's warmest days, creating an inviting oasis for summer visitors. Spring arrives with wildflower blooms and excellent fishing, while autumn paints the surrounding forest in brilliant golds and crimsons. The shoulder seasons offer particularly magical moments, with misty mornings giving way to sun-dappled afternoons perfect for lakeside relaxation.
ElevationPerched at a comfortable 800 feet above sea level, the campground enjoys a gentle elevation that provides pleasant breezes and creates the perfect microclimate for both relaxation and outdoor adventure.
Natural Features and SceneryMajestic short-leaf pines, stately oaks, and towering tulip poplars create a natural cathedral around the campground, their canopy filtering sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. The jewel-like lake reflects the surrounding greenery by day, while nights reveal a breathtaking celestial display unmarred by city lights. This dark-sky haven transforms evening into an astronomer's paradise, where the Milky Way stretches across the heavens in all its ancient glory. Wildlife thrives in this protected ecosystem, offering glimpses of deer at dawn and the melodic chorus of songbirds throughout the day.
Geological RegionHidden within the rolling interior forests of Shannon County, this spring-fed gem occupies a special place along the southeast lakeshore. The unique geology of the region, with its underground springs and karst features, creates the crystal-clear waters that have drawn visitors for generations. This secluded corner of Missouri's Ozarks showcases the natural springs and mature forests that define the region's timeless character.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityAll campsites and vault toilets are accessible. Portions of the day-use area are also accessible.
Sites SizeThe campsites are designed to accommodate tents or smaller RVs (up to 30 feet), with paved parking aprons and open, level areas to set up multiple tents in some sites.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy between campsites is described as fair, with light vegetation separating the sites. Some sections are shaded by mature trees, while others are more open with limited shade from large tulip poplars.
Total Campsites14 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites with tulip poplars provide limited shade, making them suitable for tents.
Best Campsites
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Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-out time is 2:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out time is 2:00 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 consecutive days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- No more than 8 people are permitted at single sites
- 16 for double sites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground has two distinct areas: one along the interior road with shaded sites and another large loop over a flat grassy field offering open and level campsites.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen seasonally from April 1 to October 31.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made by phone: 1-877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilitySites are first-come, first-served. Some reviews mention the lack of signage, making it unclear whether certain sites are free or paid.
Cancellation PolicyFees are paid at the fee tube provided. Host cannot accept fees.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Loggers Lake Recreation Area offers a variety of outdoor activities, including fishing, hiking, swimming, boating, and picnicking. The 22-acre lake is the centerpiece of the campground, providing opportunities for fishing large-mouth bass, sunfish, and catfish. A small, sandy beach and two boat ramps serve swimming and non-motorized boating enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the 2.7-mile Loggers Lake loop trail, which offers scenic views but has steep and narrow portions, as noted by user reviews. The area also provides opportunities for stargazing due to its dark night skies.
Hiking
The Loggers Lake loop trail is 2.7 miles long and begins at the campground. It features a wooden bridge and is described as having steep and narrow portions, making it less suitable for young children or clumsy hikers.Fishing
The lake offers fishing opportunities for largemouth bass, sunfish, and channel catfish. Fishing is commonly done from boats or from an earthen jetty available on-site. Boats are limited to electric motors.Swimming
There is a small, 40x50 foot sandy beach for swimming. However, the area is not managed for swimming—there are no lifeguards, depth markers, or water testing.Boating
Non-motorized boating is popular. Boats with electric motors are allowed, and there are two single-lane concrete boat ramps for access.Wildlife viewing
The area is known for its wildlife, including deer, possums, turkeys, raccoons, and other smaller animals. Visitors have also reported seeing eagles nesting and soaring over the lake.Beach activities
The sandy beach is described as small but clean, with access to wading water. However, there is no designated swim area or lifeguards.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and canoeing are common.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Only collect dead and downed wood for campfires.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM – 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsBear country: Campers are advised to practice safe food storage techniques.
Active alertsNull
Weather at Loggers Lake Recreation Area
34
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 93%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 8.5 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
Weather History
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Emergency Services
Salem Ranger District, 1301 South Main Street Salem, MO 65560. Phone: 573-729-6656.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 1 to October 31.
Trash and recyclingSecured trash cans are available on-site for waste disposal. Visitors are encouraged to collect dead and downed wood for campfires and to store dog food in bear-resistant containers due to the area being bear country.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly on the southeast lakeshore of Logger’s Lake.
Common complaintsSome users have mentioned outdated restrooms and unclear signage regarding campsite payments.
HostA host is usually available for information, but reviews indicate mixed experiences regarding host responsiveness.
Campground Map
Loggers Lake Recreation Area, Southeast Loggers Lake, Shannon County, Missouri
Driving directionsFrom Bunker, at the junction of MO Highway A and Highway 72, go 1/4 mile west on Highway A to Dent Co Rd 565 (Lincoln Ave). Turn left onto Dent Co Rd. 565 and go south on 565 for 6 miles to FR 2193. Turn left on FR 2193 for 1 mile then arrive at Logger's Lake. Look out for signs on Dent Co Rd. 565 for Logger's Lake directions. Lincoln Ave/Forest Rt. 2221 is gravel with severe washboard surface. There is a low-water bridge before the campground's entrance.
The last part of the road to Logger's Lake is rough in terrain, and a high clearance vehicle is highly recommended. Lincoln Ave/Forest Rt. 2221 is gravel with severe washboard surface.Nearby places
Bunker, 6 miles
Nearby supplies
Dollar General, 6 miles away.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.2
25 reviews
Loggers Lake Recreation Area is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Loggers Lake Recreation Area is highly regarded for its scenic beauty, peaceful ambiance, and basic but well-maintained facilities. However, the lack of modern amenities like showers or cell service makes it more suited for those looking to disconnect.
Review Summaries
Based on 25 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praised the lake views, clean vault toilets, well-maintained campsites, and the tranquil atmosphere. One visitor called it "a little peace of calm on earth."
Based on 25 reviewsCommon Concerns
Some users noted the lack of cell service, outdated facilities, and the rough terrain leading to the campground. One reviewer mentioned, "The last part of the road to Logger's Lake is rough in...
Based on 25 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own firewood as it’s unclear if it’s available on-site. Prepare for steep sections on hiking trails and ensure your vehicle can handle rough roads.
Based on 25 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is busiest during the peak summer season, but visitors noted that it never feels overcrowded due to its remote location. Reviews during winter highlight the area’s serenity, but...
Based on 25 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Picture perfect campground that's very remote and quiet." - Brian Woods
"This is my new favorite campground, it is stunning." - Morgan Funderburg
"If you're looking for a place to get away from the...
Based on 25 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
No specific standout sites were identified, but all sites are located around a loop with views of the lake.
Based on 25 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible features include vault toilets and portions of the day-use area. However, the hiking trail may not be suitable for those with mobility challenges.
Based on 25 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Dogs are welcome but must be leashed. Visitors are reminded to store pet food securely due to bears in the area.
Based on 25 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 17, 2025
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