Mccormack Lake Recreation Area

4.53

42 reviews

#66 Confederate Ridge Road, Doniphan, MO 63935

Scenic ViewsSummer Destination

Featured in:Primitive Camping Missouri Hidden Gem Campgrounds Missouri Fishing Camping Missouri

Quick Facts

636 ft

Price

Free

Booking

First-Come

Sites

6 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Mark Twain National Forest site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

636 ft

Price

Free

Booking

First-Come

Sites

6 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Mark Twain National Forest site

Official Website

Get Directions

Mccormack Lake Recreation Area

$0.00 - $0.00 / night

Campsite Fees

McCormack Lake Recreation Area is a free campground with no fees required for camping or day use.

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

573-996-2153sm.fs.marktwainnf@usda.gov

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What Campers Say

4.53

Top-Rated

Based on 42 reviews

37 Google reviews

Most mentioned

quiethikinglakewell-maintained

"The campground is praised for its scenic surroundings, serene atmosphere, and access to outdoor activities such as hiking and fishing. However, the lack of amenities such as water, electricity, and trash service was noted as a drawback by some."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

#66 Confederate Ridge Road, Doniphan, MO 63935

Mccormack Lake Recreation Area

#66 Confederate Ridge Road, Doniphan, MO 63935

Driving directionsFrom Winona, MO, go south on Hwy 19 for 13 miles, then go right/west on Forest Road 3155. The lake is about 2 miles down this road, which is drivable in any vehicle.

The road is accessible for any type of vehicle, though one user review notes that encountering opposite-direction traffic could pose challenges for larger vehicles like a 45' toy hauler.

Nearby places

Winona, MO (13 miles, approximately 20 minutes by car)

Nearby supplies

Closest supplies would likely be in Doniphan, MO, though exact locations for grocery stores, fuel, or camping supplies are not provided.

Best Time to Camp at Mccormack Lake Recreation Area

McCormack Lake welcomes outdoor enthusiasts throughout all four seasons, each offering its own unique charm. Summer brings warm, humid days perfect for lakeside lounging and early morning fishing, with temperatures often climbing into the balmy 80s. As recorded during one particularly pleasant late May week, highs reached 81°F with comfortable 62°F evenings – ideal conditions for stargazing around the campfire. Winter transforms the landscape into a quiet wonderland, where crisp, cold air and occasional snowfall create a serene atmosphere for the hardy souls who venture out in the off-season.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

3.0 / 5

Warm, humid summers; underwater vegetation can hamper fishing and some lake use.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Top 14% in MO

Fall highlighted as a best season for vivid maple colors and scenic beauty.

Spring(Mar-May)

4.0 / 5

Spring praised for wildflowers and seasonal renewal; noted as one of the best times to visit.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

3.0 / 5

Top 14% in MO

Open year-round; winter offers solitude and dark skies but fewer activities and cold conditions.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Null. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open year-round, from January to December.
Current Alerts: Null

About Mccormack Lake Recreation Area

Nestled among a canopy of majestic maple trees, McCormack Lake Recreation Area beckons those seeking an authentic back-to-basics camping experience. This peaceful primitive campground provides just the essentials – sturdy picnic tables, fire rings for evening gatherings, vintage-style lantern posts, and clean vault toilets. At the heart of it all lies a pristine, non-motorized lake that's annually stocked with fish, creating perfect conditions for anglers and paddlers alike. Adventure seekers will discover that the campground serves as a gateway to the legendary Ozark Trail, where miles of hiking await just beyond your tent flap.

McCormack Lake Recreation Area is a primitive campground offering six individual sites. It is ideal for tent camping and provides minimal amenities, making it suitable for those seeking a rustic outdoor experience.

Historical SignificanceThis cherished outdoor haven carries the enduring legacy of America's Great Depression era, when the Civilian Conservation Corps carved this jewel from the wilderness. Young men of the CCC transformed raw Ozark terrain into the recreational treasure visitors enjoy today, leaving behind not just a lake and campground, but a testament to the power of conservation and community service that continues to inspire generations of nature lovers.

Weather and SeasonsMcCormack Lake welcomes outdoor enthusiasts throughout all four seasons, each offering its own unique charm. Summer brings warm, humid days perfect for lakeside lounging and early morning fishing, with temperatures often climbing into the balmy 80s. As recorded during one particularly pleasant late May week, highs reached 81°F with comfortable 62°F evenings – ideal conditions for stargazing around the campfire. Winter transforms the landscape into a quiet wonderland, where crisp, cold air and occasional snowfall create a serene atmosphere for the hardy souls who venture out in the off-season.

ElevationNull

Natural Features and SceneryA living cathedral of maple trees creates a stunning natural amphitheater around the campground, their leaves painting spectacular displays of green in summer and fiery hues come autumn. The centerpiece 15-acre lake, continuously refreshed by a hidden spring, mirrors the surrounding forest and sky in its calm waters. Wildlife enthusiasts will find themselves reaching for binoculars as majestic eagles soar overhead and various waterfowl glide across the lake's surface, creating a photographer's paradise and a naturalist's dream.

Geological RegionSituated in the rugged beauty of the Ozark Mountains, McCormack Lake rests within the scenic Eleven Point River Section of the renowned Ozark Trail. This ancient landscape of rolling hills and hidden springs has been sculpted over millennia, creating the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures. The distinctive maple forest surrounding the intimate 15-acre lake showcases the unique ecological character of this special corner of the Ozarks, where clear waters and verdant forests define the Missouri wilderness experience.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Null

Check-out

Null

Stay Limit

No stated maximum stay limit.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Maximum of 8 people allowed per site.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutThe campground consists of 6 sites with picnic tables, fire rings, and lantern posts. Sites are dispersed and spacious.

Reservation PlatformsReservations cannot be made as the sites are first-come, first-served.

Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come, first-served; user reviews suggest it is rarely crowded.

Cancellation PolicyNull

AccessibilityLantern posts and picnic tables are accessible. However, users should note that the primitive nature of the campground may pose challenges for some visitors with disabilities.

Site SizeThe campsite area has six designated sites, each equipped with a fire ring, a picnic table, and a lantern post.

PrivacyThe campsites are described as spacious, and one user commented that they are 'more like backcountry backpacking sites' with a good level of privacy.

Total Campsites6 campsites

Recommended SitesChoose lakeside sites for scenic views and proximity to trails. Sites are large, offering privacy.

Amenities available

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

McCormack Lake Recreation Area provides a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, non-motorized boating, picnicking, and wildlife viewing. The area is perfect for nature enthusiasts who enjoy serene lakeside settings and trails through the rugged terrain of the Ozark Trail.

HikingHiking is a major draw at McCormack Lake. The campground serves as a trailhead for the 1.07-mile McCormack Lake Spur Trail, which connects to the Eleven Point River Section of the Ozark Trail and the Lazy C Trail. Trails offer intermediate difficulty levels and traverse scenic areas including rugged slopes and valleys. Highlights include views of the Eleven Point River and Greer Spring.

ClimbingClimbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.

FishingThe 12-acre lake is stocked with bass and panfish, making it a popular spot for fishing from both shore and non-motorized boats. However, some reviews noted that underwater vegetation can make fishing challenging during warmer months.

BikingWhile not extensively mentioned, one review mentioned mountain biking opportunities, though the trails were described as 'too advanced' by some users.

BoatingThe lake supports non-motorized boating, including the use of canoes and boats with electric trolling motors. Boats must be carried to the water, as there is no boat launch.

Wildlife viewingThe area is excellent for wildlife viewing, with opportunities to observe waterfowl, eagles, and occasional sightings of beavers and muskrats. Tips for wildlife-friendly viewing are provided by the park.

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsRaccoons are known nuisances, as one user noted a raccoon stealing food. Some sites may have uneven terrain. Fishing can be challenging due to underwater vegetation.

Active AlertsNull

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.

Fire PolicyCampfires are allowed using dead and downed wood only. Fireworks are prohibited.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM.

Emergency ServicesEleven Point/Doniphan Ranger District Office (#66 Confederate Ridge Road, Doniphan, MO 63935, Phone: 573-996-2153)

Trash & RecyclingNo trash or recycling facilities are available on-site. Visitors must pack out all trash, as there is no garbage pick-up service.

Water FeaturesThe campground is adjacent to McCormack Lake, which is 15 acres in size and spring-fed. It also connects to the Eleven Point River Section of the Ozark Trail.

Camp HostNull

Weather at Mccormack Lake Recreation Area

Reviews

4.5

42 reviews

Top-Rated

Mccormack Lake Recreation Area is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

The campground is praised for its scenic surroundings, serene atmosphere, and access to outdoor activities such as hiking and fishing. However, the lack of amenities such as water, electricity, and trash service was noted as a drawback by some.

Review Summaries

Based on 42 reviews

What Campers Love

Common positive remarks include the beauty of the lake, the well-maintained campsites, and the tranquil environment. One user said, 'It’s nice and quiet here and very dark (very little light...

Based on 42 reviews

Common Concerns

Frequent complaints include the absence of basic facilities like running water, trash bins, and modern restrooms. One reviewer noted, 'There is no trash service, so PLEASE pack out your trash.'...

Based on 42 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Users recommend bringing all necessary supplies, as the campground offers no water or trash facilities. One user suggested visiting during less busy times to enjoy solitude.

Based on 42 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Spring and fall are highlighted as the best times to visit for viewing wildflowers and fall colors. Summers can bring challenges such as underwater vegetation affecting fishing.

Based on 42 reviews

Camper Quotes

- 'We rarely saw other people. Very beautiful & remote.' - Scott Usher - 'Beautiful little, 6-site campground. It's free, small lake, nice hiking trails and pit toilet.' - Lilly Haanpaa - 'This is a...

Based on 42 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site-specific information about particular campsites is limited. However, reviewers noted that the sites are spacious and well-maintained.

Based on 42 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility features such as lantern posts and picnic tables are appreciated, but the overall primitive setup may pose limitations for visitors with disabilities.

Based on 42 reviews