How much does camping cost at Mccormack Lake Recreation Area?

Camping fees at Mccormack Lake Recreation Area range from Free. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Fees are typically paid at the campground entrance.

Is Mccormack Lake Recreation Area first-come first-served or reservation?

Mccormack Lake Recreation Area operates on a first-come, first-served basis. All sites are first-come, first-served; user reviews suggest it is rarely crowded.

Can I see photos of campsites at Mccormack Lake Recreation Area before I book?

Yes! Mccormack Lake Recreation Area has 5 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Mccormack Lake Recreation Area?

Mccormack Lake Recreation Area is open Null. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Mccormack Lake Recreation Area?

Mccormack Lake Recreation Area does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Can I have a campfire at Mccormack Lake Recreation Area?

Fire policies at Mccormack Lake Recreation Area: Campfires are allowed using dead and downed wood only. Fireworks are prohibited.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Mccormack Lake Recreation Area have?

Mccormack Lake Recreation Area has 6 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Arrive early for the best site selection.

Are dogs allowed at Mccormack Lake Recreation Area?

Yes, pets are allowed at Mccormack Lake Recreation Area. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Mccormack Lake Recreation Area?

Mccormack Lake Recreation Area offers: Restrooms, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Mccormack Lake Recreation Area?

Popular activities at Mccormack Lake Recreation Area include Hiking, Fishing, Biking, Boating, Wildlife Viewing, Climbing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Mccormack Lake Recreation Area

4.31

42 reviews

#66 Confederate Ridge Road, Doniphan, MO 63935

StargazingSummer 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

Check Availability 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

Check Availability 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.

No paid fee categories listed.

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USFS

Provider

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

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

#66 Confederate Ridge Road, Doniphan, MO 63935

Mccormack Lake Recreation Area

#66 Confederate Ridge Road, Doniphan, MO 63935

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.

Weather at Mccormack Lake Recreation Area

Current alerts(1)

You may see lower than normal water levels in the pond. Please be extra careful walking around the edge of the lakes during periods of drawdown. If heavy equipment is operating, stay a safe distance away and follow closure signage for your safety.

Best Time to Camp at Mccormack Lake Recreation Area

Fall brings the best conditions. October highs run mid-50s to mid-70s with nights in the 30s–50s, and the maples hit peak color. The lower humidity makes hiking, paddling, and fishing more comfortable. Wildlife viewing picks up as animals prepare for winter. Late May can reach the low 80s during the day with 62-degree evenings. Summer gets warm and humid. Winter sees cold air and occasional snow, quiet for visitors who don't mind the chill.

Best

Spring(Mar-May)

4.0 / 5

Spring highlighted for wildflowers and comfortable paddling/hiking conditions in reviews.

Planning Tips

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

About Mccormack Lake Recreation Area

McCormack Lake Recreation Area sits in the Eleven Point River Section of the Ozark Trail, 636 feet up in the Missouri mountains. Six primitive sites ring a 15-acre non-motorized lake, each with a fire ring, picnic table, and lantern post. The campground has vault toilets but no water, electricity, or trash service. The lake is annually stocked for fishing.

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 Significance

The Civilian Conservation Corps built the lake and campground during the Great Depression, carving the recreation area from raw Ozark terrain.

Weather and SeasonsFall brings the best conditions. October highs run mid-50s to mid-70s with nights in the 30s–50s, and the maples hit peak color. The lower humidity makes hiking, paddling, and fishing more comfortable. Wildlife viewing picks up as animals prepare for winter. Late May can reach the low 80s during the day with 62-degree evenings. Summer gets warm and humid. Winter sees cold air and occasional snow, quiet for visitors who don't mind the chill.

ElevationNull

Natural Features and SceneryA maple forest surrounds the 15-acre lake, which is fed by a spring. The forest turns bright colors in October. Eagles and waterfowl visit the lake. The surrounding Ozark terrain is hilly and forested. One camper noted very little light pollution and dark skies at night. The grass around the sites is mowed.

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.

Scenic Views"I woke up to fog and the lake right outside of my tent" - Lauren Turner; "Beautiful scenery" - Terre Farris. Views of the lake and surrounding forest are considered a highlight.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo lodges or alternative accommodations are available; this is a primitive camping area.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are offered at this site.

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 layoutSix dispersed sites, each with a fire ring, picnic table, and lantern post. The spacing between sites provides privacy. The layout feels more like backcountry camping than a typical developed campground.

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.

Best CampsitesSites near the lake offer better views. The six sites are spacious and spread out, described by one camper as similar to backcountry backpacking sites with good privacy.

Amenities available

The McCormack Lake Recreation Area offers a basic and primitive camping experience surrounded by maple trees. Campers can expect minimal facilities, including lantern posts, picnic tables, fire rings, and a vault toilet. Notably, there is no potable water or trash service provided, so visitors are encouraged to follow a 'pack in, pack out' policy. Accessibility features include accessible lantern posts and picnic tables. However, the lack of running water and modern amenities (such as showers, flush toilets, or cell phone service) makes this a true back-to-nature experience.

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

RV details

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.

Hiking

Climbing

Fishing

Biking

Boating

Wildlife viewing

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

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.

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.

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available. The campground provides a vault toilet that one user described as 'an open-air vault toilet with a latching privacy fence.'

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

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.

Trip Planning Tools

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Questions & answers

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Tips from campers

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.3

42 reviews

Satisfactory

Mccormack Lake Recreation Area is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% 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

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

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

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

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, but dogs must be kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet. No specific reviews address pet-related amenities.

Based on 42 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

Be the first to review this campground

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Go if

Paddlers and anglers who carry a canoe or kayak by hand will get the most out of this place. The 15-acre lake, stocked bass, and a connector to the Ozark Trail make it a solid base. Bring every drop of water you need, there's none on site.

Skip if

No cell signal is the hard reality here, AT&T gets zero bars, and others report the same. The vault toilets have drawn complaints about condition, and with no potable water or trash service, anyone expecting even basic developed-campground infrastructure will be frustrated.

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Whites Creek Float Camp sits on the western bank of the Eleven Point National Scenic River, accessible only by canoe or kayak. The campground has 5 primitive sites, each with a picnic table and fire ring. No running water or trash service. Treat all water before drinking and pack out everything you bring in.

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Greenbriar Float Camp

#66 Confederate Ridge Road, Doniphan, MO 63935

Greenbriar Float Camp sits along the Eleven Point National Scenic River in Mark Twain National Forest, accessible only by paddle. The camp has 3 primitive sites with vault toilets and fire rings. No potable water or trash service. Sites accommodate large groups (20+ people according to reviews) but require self-sufficiency and Leave No Trace practices.

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Boze Mill Float Camp, Mark Twain National Forest, MO

Boze Mill Float Camp sits along the Eleven Point National Scenic River in Mark Twain National Forest, a three-site primitive campground accessible from the water. The camp sits at 636 feet elevation near the remains of an 1880s grist mill and a powerful spring that still flows today. No fee, no reservations, no trash service. Pack everything out.

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: null

Morgan Spring Float Camp sits along the Eleven Point River in Mark Twain National Forest, offering three primitive campsites with vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables. The terrain is steep and challenging, so come prepared with all your own water and supplies. No trash service means pack-it-in, pack-it-out.

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Fourche Lake Recreation Area sits on 44 acres of water at 581 feet elevation in Mark Twain National Forest, offering six free, primitive campsites dispersed among oak, pine, and hickory forest. Each site includes a fire ring, picnic table, and lantern post. Access can be problematic: fallen trees sometimes block the road to the campground.

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Campgrounds

Mark Twain National Forest

Mccormack Lake Recreation Area

From the U.S. Forest Service

Reference information about Mccormack Lake Recreation Area sourced from official USFS records and forestcamping.com. View official recreation.gov page →

Overview

McCormack Lake Recreation Area is surrounded by maple trees.Hiking - There is hiking at McCormack Lake Recreation Area. This is a trailhead in <a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/mtnf/recarea/?recid=74193">McCormack Lake Day Use Area</a> for the 1.07-mileMcCormack Lake spur trail, which connects to the <a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/mtnf/recarea/?recid=21718">Eleven Point River Section of the Ozark Trail</a> and the <a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/mtnf/recarea/?recid=21734">Lazy C Trail</a>.Fishing and Boating - The 15-acre lake is stocked annually with panfish and bass being the catch of the day. During the warm months the vegetation in the lake can make fishing and boating difficult. The lake is a non-motorized area; boat motors are not allowed. An electric trolling motor is permitted. There is ample parking for picnickers and fishermen.Camping - The campground is primitive with limited picnic tables, firerings and lantern posts. A vault toilet is provided. No water is available.

Open Season: January – December