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Pinewoods Lake Rec Area

Open

Open for camping April 1 through October 1, 2026. Some sites are reservable via Recreation.gov (4 days to 12 months in advance), others are first-come, first-served. No potable water available; campers must bring their own. Pack out all trash.

Heat Advisory issued August 31 at 11:19AM CDT until September 4 at 8:00PM CDT by NWS Paducah KY

11:19 AM — September 1st, 5:30 AM

* WHAT...Daily peak heat index values from 100 up to near 110 degrees. * WHERE...All of southern Illinois, southwest Indiana, western Kentucky, and southeast Missouri. * WHEN...Until 8 PM CDT /9 PM EDT/ Friday. * IMPACTS...Prolonged duration hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat illnesses.

Mark Twain National Forest

Forest Order 09-05-21-26-03 National Forest System Road 566 Closure

This is a temporary closure for FS Road 566 up to Coy Bald Trailhead to avoid risk of entrapment from flooding waters during the peak rain season. Access to the Coy Bald Trailhead requires crossing U.S. Army Corps of Engineers land—and traversing the Cane Creek low‑water crossing, a…

Mark Twain National Forest

Weather Conditions

Please check weather conditions prior to visiting. Forecasts can be found:National Weather Service - Springfield, MO Severe Weather Potential National Weather Service - Springfield, MO (Facebook) Safety Tips are available: Brave the Elements  Ready.gov -  Floods Severe Weather Tornadoes

About

Pinewoods Lake Recreation Area sits beside a tranquil 31-acre lake in the Poplar Bluff area of Mark Twain National Forest. The campground features 13 single sites and 2 double sites, with some single sites offering electric hookups. Each campsite includes a picnic table and fire ring. The surrounding dense woods of oak, hickory, and pine provide seclusion and privacy. The lake offers excellent fishing opportunities for bass, sunfish, and catfish. An accessible floating fishing pier accommodates anglers who prefer not to use boats, while a concrete boat ramp serves those with watercraft (electric motors only). The 1.3-mile Pinewoods Lake Trail circles the lake, with half the trail featuring an accessible concrete surface and the remainder a wide dirt path. The flat, easy terrain makes it suitable for all skill levels. Wildlife including wood ducks and beavers can be spotted along the trail. Campers should note that potable water is not available and all trash must be packed out. Reservations can be made through Recreation.gov 4 days to 12 months in advance, or sites may be available first-come, first-served.

Directions

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

Amenities

Water No
Fires Allowed Yes
Toilets Yes
Dump Station No
Wifi
Pets Allowed Yes
Showers No
Electric Hookups Yes
Water Hookups No
Sewer Hookups No
Camp Store
Price $50

Vehicle

Max RV Length
Max Trailer Length
Big Rig Friendly
Pull Through Sites No

Contact

Email sm.fs.marktwainnf@usda.gov
Phone +1 (573) 785-1475

Cell Service

AT&T Yes
Verizon Yes
T-Mobile Yes

Availability

Photos

Pinewoods Recreation Area Entrance Sign
View from picnic area of Pinewoods Lake
View from picnic area of Pinewoods Lake

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