Missouri / Carter County / Mark Twain National Forest

Pinewoods Lake Rec Area

Closed — Closed for the winter season. Typically operates seasonally spring through fall.

About

Pinewoods Lake Recreation Area sits in the southeastern quadrant of Mark Twain National Forest, offering a quiet retreat next to a 32-acre managed fishery lake. The campground features 15 non-electric campsites, each equipped with a table, lantern post, and fire ring. Built in the late 1970s, the lake is stocked with bass, sunfish, and catfish, and can be fished from shore, the accessible floating pier, or small boats with electric motors only. The recreation area features a 1.3-mile walking trail that circles the lake, with most of the trail having a concrete surface for accessibility. The relatively flat trail provides views of the lake, opportunities to spot wood ducks and beavers, and an abundance of wildflowers. The densely wooded area is dominated by oak, hickory, and pine trees, creating a sense of seclusion and privacy. Facilities include vault toilets and a day-use picnic shelter that can accommodate up to 75 people with tables and large grills. The nearest town is Ellsinore, just 3 miles away, offering dining options, a grocery store, and fuel station. Campers must bring their own water and pack out all trash, as no drinking water or trash collection service is available.

Directions

From Poplar Bluff, Missouri, go 7 miles north on U.S. Highway 67, then travel 16 miles east on U.S. Highway 60. The site is on the left side of the road.

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