Camping at Silver Mines Campground
Overview
Silver Mines Campground is a picturesque outdoor recreation area located in the Mark Twain National Forest in Missouri. Nestled along the St. Francis River, it's a popular spot for camping, hiking, water activities, and enjoying the natural beauty of the Ozarks.
Location & Directions
Address: Silver Mines Campground Hwy D, Fredericktown, MO 63645, United States
Directions: To reach Silver Mines Campground from Fredericktown, Missouri:
- Head west on MO-72 W toward US-67 BUS N.
- Turn left onto State Hwy D.
- Follow State Hwy D for approximately 10 miles.
- The campground will be on your right.
Camping Information
Facilities:
- Campsites: The campground offers single and double campsites with a variety of amenities including picnic tables, fire rings, and tent pads.
- Restrooms: Flush toilets and vault toilets are available, depending on the loop.
- Showers: There are no shower facilities at this campground.
- Water: Drinking water is available in the campground.
Reservations:
- Some of the campsites can be reserved in advance, while others are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Camping Fees:
- Fees vary depending on the type of site and season. It is recommended to check the latest fees and availability through the USDA Forest Service or recreation.gov.
Season:
- The campground generally operates from April through October, weather permitting.
Activities
Hiking:
- There are several trails in the area, including the Silver Mines Trail that provides scenic views and access to the old mining areas the campground is named after.
Water Activities:
- The St. Francis River is popular for whitewater paddling, especially when water levels permit. It is known for hosting the Missouri Whitewater Championships in the spring.
- Swimming and fishing are also popular activities in the river; however, caution should be taken due to changing water conditions.
Rockhounding & Sightseeing:
- The area is rich in history due to the old silver mining operations, and the natural geology offers interesting rock formations and potential for rockhounding.
Regulations & Safety
- Fire safety is a priority; follow all guidelines about campfires and candle usage.
- Bears are not commonly encountered, but proper food storage is encouraged to deter raccoons and other wildlife.
- Water levels in the St. Francis River can rise rapidly; visitors are advised to check conditions before engaging in water activities.
Nearby Attractions
- Millstream Gardens Conservation Area: A short drive away, this area offers additional hiking trails and scenic views, particularly in the spring during the dogwood and redbud blooms.
- Elephant Rocks State Park: Located about an hour from the campground, this park is known for its giant granite boulders and unique geology.
Contact Information
For more detailed information, making reservations, or checking on the status of the campground, you can contact the local forest service office or visit the official website. The contact details can be found below:
- Mark Twain National Forest, Fredericktown Ranger District
- Phone: +1 573-783-0200
- Website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/mtnf/recarea/?recid=21726
Always check for any alerts or changes in campground status before planning your trip.