Indian Creek (Mo)
4.31539 reviews20642 HIGHWAY J
Indian Creek (Mo)
$10.00 - $125.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$24.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$10.00
Group Site Fee$125.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $10 for tent-only non-electric sites to $125 for group standard electric sites. Discounts may apply for Interagency Senior/Access Pass holders.
About this campground
Welcome to Indian Creek, the crown jewel of Mark Twain Lake camping. With 215 thoughtfully designed campsites ranging from modern electric hookups to secluded tent-only havens, this expansive campground serves as your gateway to endless outdoor adventures. Launch your boat from convenient ramps, explore winding hiking trails through dense forest, cool off at sandy beaches, or watch the kids play while you prep your catch at the fish cleaning stations. Every amenity has been carefully placed to enhance your connection with nature while keeping comfort close at hand.
Indian Creek Campground offers a diverse range of camping accommodations, including standard electric sites, primitive hike-in sites, group shelters, and full hookup sites for RVs. The variety caters to families, solo campers, and large groups alike.
Historical SignificanceCamp in the literary heartland of America, where the spirit of Samuel Clemens—better known as Mark Twain—permeates the landscape. This beloved humorist and writer drew his first breath just miles away in Florida, Missouri, and his legacy lives on in every cove and shoreline of the lake bearing his name. Extend your camping adventure with a pilgrimage to Mark Twain State Park, where his modest birthplace stands as a testament to humble beginnings and extraordinary imagination.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of Missouri's seasons at Indian Creek. Summer brings warm, humid days perfect for lake activities and evening campfires under star-filled skies. As autumn arrives, the surrounding forest transforms into a breathtaking canvas of gold, crimson, and amber, with crisp air ideal for hiking and wildlife watching. Winter visitors discover a serene, frost-kissed landscape where occasional snowfall creates a peaceful wonderland, though temperatures demand proper cold-weather gear.
ElevationNestled in the gently rolling hills of northeastern Missouri, the campground offers varied terrain that creates unique microclimates and diverse camping experiences throughout the property.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering hardwoods create a natural cathedral above Indian Creek Campground, their ancient branches providing cool shade and homes for countless woodland creatures. White-tailed deer emerge at dawn and dusk, while the crystal waters of Mark Twain Lake reflect endless skies and forested shores. Fed by the meandering Salt River and managed by the impressive Clarence Cannon Dam, this 18,600-acre reservoir offers ever-changing vistas where water meets land in perfect harmony.
Geological RegionDiscover camping at the intersection of human ingenuity and natural beauty in northeastern Missouri. Here, the Salt River's ancient path has been transformed by the Clarence Cannon Dam into Mark Twain Lake, creating a recreational paradise while providing essential flood control and clean hydroelectric power. This thoughtful balance between conservation and recreation has enhanced wildlife habitats throughout the region, making Indian Creek a prime destination for nature enthusiasts who appreciate both the wild and the well-planned.
Campsite details
AccessibilityIndian Creek Campground offers accessible campsites and facilities, though some campers reported difficulties accessing sites due to loose gravel or steep grades. ADA compliance is generally good, but enforcement of ADA-specific site reservations is inconsistent.
Sites SizeCampsites are described as spacious, with some accommodating large RVs and multiple tents. Several sites have long and level asphalt pads, while others are noted as sloped or rocky.
Sites PrivacyThe sites at Indian Creek Campground are generally well-spaced and surrounded by trees, offering a good level of privacy. Some reviewers appreciated the 'large, wooded sites' with 'plenty of shade.'
Total Campsites215 campsites
Recommended CampsitesLake-view sites are partially obstructed by trees. For tent campers, hike-in sites are noted as peaceful but challenging to access due to overgrown trails.
Best CampsitesSpecific campsites such as 126, 118, and 170 are mentioned as favorites in user reviews.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
5:00 PM
Check-out
4:00 PM
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Groups
The group camp area features 25 electric campsites, a group shelter, restrooms, showers, and a playground. It is ideal for large gatherings and events.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into multiple loops, some of which are more isolated and quieter than others. Sites are widely spaced for privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonReservable season runs from March 28 to November 16, with the facility operating on a 6-month rolling booking window.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made at Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo first-come-first-served availability is mentioned; all sites require advance reservations.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before the date of arrival for a refund, minus a $10 cancellation fee and any reservation fees. Late cancellations (within 1 day of check-in) incur additional penalties, including forfeiture of the first night's recreation fee.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Cell phone service
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Indian Creek Campground offers a variety of recreational activities that cater to all age groups. Popular activities include boating, fishing, hiking, wildlife viewing, and swimming. The public boat ramp and hiking trails are standout features. Seasonal events, like the Halloween Walk, receive high praise from visitors.
Hiking
The campground features hiking trails that traverse wooded areas and lead to the lake. Some trails have stairs for easier access, but their condition varies. One camper described the trails as 'beautiful, well-marked, and well-maintained,' while another noted that some are 'overgrown and steep.'Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity at Indian Creek, with bass fishing highlighted as a favorite. A fish cleaning station is available, though some campers expressed concerns about its maintenance and availability. One camper remarked, 'Fishing was great, but the fish cleaning station was closed.'Swimming
The campground features a beach area for swimming, which is well-maintained but noted as being steep to access. Campers appreciated the opportunity for swimming, especially in hot weather.Biking
Biking is a favored activity at Indian Creek, with paved roads and trails offering ample opportunities. Campers noted the 'flat roads for biking' as a plus, particularly for families.Boating
Boating is a highlight, supported by the convenient location of the public boat ramp. Campers mentioned the availability of a marina and dock facilities as additional boating perks.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife is abundant, with deer frequently spotted in and around the campsites. One camper shared, 'The deer came right through our campsite every day.'Beach activities
In addition to swimming, the beach area is suitable for sunbathing and relaxing. The beach was described as 'amazing' and a 'perfect place to spend the day, especially with kids.'Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly mentioned, but the campground remains open during the colder months, which may allow for winter hiking and wildlife photography.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports, such as kayaking and paddleboarding, are supported due to the lake's calm waters. Specific amenities for water sports are not detailed.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Firewood restrictions are in place to prevent the spread of invasive species. Visitors are encouraged to buy firewood locally and burn it on-site.
- Quiet hours are enforced but specific times are not provided.
Hazards
General hazardsTicks, chiggers, and horseflies are prevalent, as noted by multiple user reviews. Poison oak is also mentioned along trails.
Active alertsNo active alerts are listed in the authoritative content.
Weather forecast
71
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 40%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 4.5 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services are located in Monroe City, approximately 6 miles away. These include hospitals, police stations, and other urgent care facilities.
Good to know
Peak season datesMarch 28 - November 16.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available, though reviews noted instances of overflowing dumpsters. Raccoons were reportedly trapped in dumpsters, prompting campers to suggest the addition of escape methods for wildlife.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is near Mark Twain Lake, with direct access via trails. There are three boat ramps located within five minutes of the campground.
Common complaintsComplaints largely center on the condition of restrooms and shower houses, which are described as dirty and infested with bugs. Some users reported issues with campsite slopes and accessibility.
HostNo permanent hosts are available; volunteers have temporarily assisted with management.
Campground Map
20642 HIGHWAY J
Driving directionsFrom Hannibal: Travel west on Highway 36 for 20 miles, then southwest on Highway 24 for 6 miles. Continue south on Rt. HH for 2 miles, then east on Monroe CR #581 for 3 miles. From Monroe City: Travel 6 miles southwest on Highway 24, then south on Rt. HH for 2 miles. Continue east on Monroe CR #581 for 3 miles. From Paris: Travel northeast on Highway 24 for 14 miles, then south on Rt. HH for 2 miles. Continue east on Monroe County Road #581 for 3 miles. From Perry: Travel west on Highway 154 for 7 miles, then north on Highway 107 for 9 miles. Continue northeast on Hwy 24 for 3 miles, then south on Rt. HH for 2 miles. Go east on Monroe County Rd. #581 for 3 miles.
The campground is accessible via paved roads, but some reviews mention that the entrance road is narrow and not marked well. Long winding drives and county roads are mentioned, although the roads are stated to be in good condition.Nearby places
Hannibal (20 miles, approximately 30 minutes), Monroe City (6 miles, approximately 10 minutes), Paris (14 miles, approximately 20 minutes), Perry (7 miles, approximately 10 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Monroe City (6 miles) serves as the primary supply hub for groceries, fuel, and camping gear. Additional resupply options may require a longer drive.
Camper Reviews
4.3
539 reviews
Indian Creek (Mo) is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Indian Creek Campground are generally positive, with an overall sentiment of 4.19 out of 5. Campers appreciate the spacious sites, shaded areas, and access to Mark Twain Lake. However, complaints about restroom cleanliness, bugs, and limited cell service are recurrent.
Review Summaries
Based on 539 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers praised the large, shaded sites, well-spaced layout, and opportunities for activities like hiking, fishing, and boating. The Halloween Walk event is a standout feature, described as 'awesome'...
Based on 539 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include unclean restrooms, bug infestations in showers and bathrooms, limited cell service, and maintenance issues such as uncleaned fire pits and broken facilities.
Based on 539 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing bug spray, sandals for the showers, and extra leveling blocks due to some sloped campsites. Early reservations are advised, especially for full-hookup sites during peak...
Based on 539 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is the most popular season, with activities like swimming and boating being highlights. However, bugs are more prevalent during this time. Fall is praised for its peaceful atmosphere and...
Based on 539 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'The deer came right through our campsite every day. We loved it!' 2. 'Showers need updating. Bugs are a huge problem in the bathrooms.' 3. 'The Halloween Walk was awesome! My son had a blast.'
Based on 539 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Specific campsites like #126 and #62 are highlighted positively for their spaciousness and amenities, while others like #27 and #121 are criticized for being too small or sloped.
Based on 539 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility reviews are mixed. While some campers noted accessible sites and facilities, others reported challenges with gravel paths and steep terrain.
Based on 539 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Indian Creek Campground is dog-friendly, with several campers appreciating the ability to bring their pets. However, some noted issues with off-leash dogs and barking.
Based on 539 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025