RV Rental Mark Twain Lake, MO

You’ll find many outdoor activities to do while at Mark Twain Lake, and one is fishing. This 18,000-acre lake is packed with a variety of different species, including bluegill, carp, bass, and catfish. Fishers can take their boat out on the water, fish along the shoreline, or try catching fish in one of the coves situated around the edge of the lake.

Visitors could also go hiking while at Mark Twain Lake. Thanks to the park’s location next to Mark Twain State Park, you’ll discover plenty of pathways to trek down. One to explore is the Lick Creek Trail. This eight-mile walkway winds around the park and can be used for cycling and horseback riding. Another trail near the lake is the Joanna Trail. The trail features three loops that are shaded by towering trees and are often visited by local wildlife, like bobcats, foxes, and coyotes.

Birdwatchers are able to get out and go search for the many species that live around Mark Twain Lake. While here, you might catch a glimpse of while here include owls, sapsuckers, woodpeckers, and pelicans. In addition to this, Mark Twain Lake is a popular spot for waterfowl migrating during the winter, like ruddy ducks.

Outdoor enthusiasts that choose RV rentals in Ralls County can stay at a few different places while in the area. One option is the Windmill Resort Campground. This family-owned travel trailer campground offers numerous camper sites that come with amenities such as water, electric, and sewer hookups. Campers will also find a fish cleaning station, playground, and a small fishing pond here.

Another motorhome campground is Big Larry’s Campground. This option opened in 2005 and offers 79 RV sites that come with amenities such as grills, 30, 50 amp electric, picnic tables, and storage. You will also find a playground and a fishing pond on the grounds.

For those who’d like to get out and explore the surrounding area with their camper, you’ll find a handful of places to venture to. In the nearby village of Florida, visitors could stop by the Mark Twain Birthplace State Historic Site. This historical attraction is where author Samuel Clemens, best known as Mark Twain, was born. Visitors can step inside the two-room cabin where he was born and view various artifacts from his life, like furniture, writing instruments, and manuscripts. Admission is free.

About two hours away in St. Louis is the Museum at the Gateway Arch. The Museum is situated next to the iconic Gateway Arch and tells more behind the history of the city and state through a number of exhibits. Some topics touched on in the Museum of the Gateway Arch include more about the exploration of the West, the Native American tribes who lived in the state, and the history of the steamboat. The Museum is also near the Old Courthouse, which is where the trials during the Dred Scott case were held.

In Chesterfield, there’s The Butterfly House. Situated on the grounds of the Missouri Botanical Garden, this destination is filled with thousands of colorful butterflies floating around. Visitors can learn more about this colorful insect by walking through the structure or by attending an educational class. This attraction also holds photography classes where you’ll be able to learn how to capture butterflies in their grandeur with the help of a professional. There are also butterfly-themed book readings and signings throughout the year.

While in the area, drive over to Jefferson City to check out the Runge Nature Center. This facility is designed to help inform guests more about the local flora and fauna. The center has a few exhibits inside where visitors can view animals and learn more about their natural habitats. In addition to this, there are numerous hiking trails winding around the center. When you’re done with exploring, stop by the nature center’s small gift shop or library.

There are a handful of gas stations scattered around Mark Twain Lake and are only a few minutes away. Visitors will also find plenty of restaurants nearby, many of which serve comfort food. Should you like to try some local culinary specialties, a few to consider are toasted ravioli, butter cake, frozen custard, and pork steaks.