About FRANK RUSSELL
Overview Frank Russell Campground, set near the picturesque Mark Twain Lake, has a location near the dam, providing campers with easy access to the lake, river and surrounding attractions. The campground also features an amphitheater with weekly events in the summer. The lake's namesake and legendary author and humorist, Mark Twain, was born in a town beside the lake. Recreation The 32-mile long Joanna Trail is accessible from the campground. Here, horseback riders, mountain bikers and hikers can enjoy the rough and varied terrain that meanders along the northern banks of the lake, across bluffs and over hills. Campfire programs are provided every Saturday from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Facilities Adjacent to the campground, equestrian campers can make use of the shaded horse stalls. Campsites are equipped with electric hookups, paved parking, grills and picnic tables. Other amenities include showers, playgrounds and vault toilets.Natural Features Mark Twain Lake is sourced by the Salt River in northeast Missouri. The Clarence Cannon Dam sits on the eastern edge of the lake, providing flood control and hydroelectricity to the region. Nearby Attractions While here, many visitors tour the birthplace of world-famous humorist and author, Mark Twain, in Florida, Missouri. The David C. Berti Shooting Range is below the dam and the M.W. Boudreaux Visitor Center is located on the south end of the Dam.
How to Get There
From Hannibal - Hwy 36 west 17 miles to Hwy J, south 9 miles. From Monroe City - Hwy 36 east 3 miles to Hwy J, south 9 miles. From Paris - Hwy 154 east 20 miles to Hwy J (Perry), north 10 miles. From Perry - Hwy J north 10 miles.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Moisture-wicking T-shirt
Light color, breathable.
- 🩳
Lightweight shorts or pants
Quick-dry preferred — sweat dries fast.
- 🧢
Brimmed sun hat
Better than a cap for back-of-neck protection.
- 🥾
Trail runners
Breathable mesh uppers.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection (UV 7)
SPF 50+ sunscreen, lip balm w/ SPF, sunglasses, sun hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to FRANK RUSSELL
Heading to FRANK RUSSELL? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for FRANK RUSSELL?
No central reservation system listed for FRANK RUSSELL. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/233501) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to FRANK RUSSELL?
From Hannibal - Hwy 36 west 17 miles to Hwy J, south 9 miles. From Monroe City - Hwy 36 east 3 miles to Hwy J, south 9 miles. From Paris - Hwy 154 east 20 miles to Hwy J (Perry), north 10 miles. From Perry - Hwy J north 10 miles.
How do I contact FRANK RUSSELL?
You can reach the park at phone: 573-735-4097 or email: marktwaininfo@usace.army.mil.
References & Official Resources
