Mark Twain Lake
Why Rent On Mark Twain Lake
Mark Twain Lake, a vast 18,600-acre expanse in north-central Missouri, beckons adventurers, wellness seekers, and families alike with its diverse array of activities and stunning natural beauty. Here, the rolling Salt River Hills give way to bluffs overlooking the lake, surrounded by stands of oak, hickory, and maple, teeming with white-tailed deer and turkey.
For water enthusiasts, the lake offers boating, fishing, and swimming. Anglers can reel in crappie, bass, catfish, and sunfish, while pontoon rentals provide an easy way to explore the lake. A public beach invites swimmers to bask in the sun from sunrise to sunset.
On land, over six miles of hiking trails, including the Lick Creek Trail, offer scenic views and opportunities for birdwatching. Equestrian and walking trails crisscross the area, while several Corps of Engineers developed recreation areas provide camping sites with full hookups, showers, and picnic facilities.
Nearby, Mark Twain State Park enriches the experience with educational hikes like the Pioneer Forest Interpretative Hike and annual events. For families, the Mark Twain Lake Jellystone Park offers a waterpark, mini golf, and a variety of kids’ activities, ensuring an action-packed vacation. Whether seeking adventure, relaxation, or family fun, Mark Twain Lake is a destination that promises unforgettable experiences.
- Surface area (mi)
- 47.16
- Max depth (ft)
- 85.01
- Elevation (ft)
- 603.67
- Shoreline length (mi)
- 285.21
Popular activities
- Boating
- Swimming
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Kayaking
- Canoeing
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Marinas on Mark Twain Lake
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Mark Twain Lake has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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Yes, swimming is allowed at Mark Twain Lake, except in front of the boat ramp accesses. The lake has designated beach areas, such as the one at the Highway 107 Recreation Area, where swimming is permitted, though there are no lifeguards on duty.
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Mark Twain Lake is a popular recreation destination because it offers a variety of activities. The lake is ideal for boating, fishing, and swimming, with several boat ramps and a public beach. It also features equestrian trails, walking trails, and camping areas with full hookups and amenities like showers and restrooms.
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At Mark Twain Lake, the daily catch limits and length restrictions are as follows: Black bass must be at least 15 inches, with a daily limit of six. Blue and flathead catfish must be at least 26 inches, with a daily limit of five each. Crappie have a daily limit of 15, while white bass have a daily limit of 15, with no more than four over 18 inches. Channel catfish have a daily limit of 10 with no length limit, and walleye have a daily limit of four.
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There are no dog-friendly beaches on Mark Twain Lake. Dogs are not allowed in the swimming areas or beaches at Mark Twain Lake. This rule is in place to maintain safety and cleanliness in these areas.
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Towns near Mark Twain Lake include Hannibal, Frankford, Laddonia, Monroe City, New London, and Perry, all located in Ralls County, Missouri. These towns are situated around the lake, which was formed by the construction of the Clarence Cannon Dam on the Salt River. Hannibal is about 30 miles east of the lake.
