Mark Twain National Forest, National forest in Missouri, United States
Mark Twain National Forest is a large federal forest spread across southern and central Missouri. It covers a range of terrain, from dense oak and pine woodlands to rocky ridges, open glades, and spring-fed rivers that flow year-round.
By the early 1900s, heavy logging had left much of Missouri's forests in poor condition. The land was officially protected in 1939 and named after Missouri-born author Mark Twain.
The Eleven Point River, one of the first rivers in the country to receive federal protection, draws people who fish, canoe, and camp along its banks. Along this stretch, you get a sense of how deeply outdoor life is woven into the habits of people in this part of Missouri.
The forest spans several regions of Missouri, so it helps to decide in advance which area you want to visit. Towns like Rolla, Springfield, Salem, and Van Buren each serve as good starting points depending on your direction.
Greer Spring, one of the largest springs in Missouri, releases an enormous volume of water every day, yet it sees far fewer visitors than many better-known natural sites. A trail of about 1 mile (1.6 km) leads to the edge of the spring, where the water flows directly into the Eleven Point River.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
