John C. Briscoe Group Use
04 reviews20642 HIGHWAY J, MONROE CITY, MO 63456-9359
John C. Briscoe Group Use
$30.00 - $230.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$230.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Facility rates for May 02, 2025, through September 29, 2025 peak season range from $30.00 to $230.00 for group shelters and standard electric group sites. Reservation fees and taxes may apply.
About this campground
Nestled along the shores of Mark Twain Lake, John C. Briscoe Group Use campground welcomes families and friends seeking the perfect gathering spot in Missouri's outdoor paradise. Six spacious group campsites, each thoughtfully equipped with covered picnic shelters and convenient electric hookups, create an ideal basecamp for your adventures. Modern amenities including hot showers and a central playground where children's laughter echoes through the trees ensure comfort meets wilderness. Whether you're casting lines into the lake's abundant waters, exploring hidden coves by boat, or tracking deer through autumn woods, this campground serves as your gateway to endless recreational possibilities.
The John C. Briscoe Group Use area is tailored for large group camping experiences. It includes group campsites equipped with electric hookups and facilities suitable for tent campers and RVs.
Historical SignificanceCamp in the heart of Mark Twain country, where America's beloved storyteller first drew breath and found his voice. Just a short drive away lies the village of Florida, Missouri, marking the humble birthplace of Samuel Clemens in 1835. Your literary pilgrimage continues in nearby Hannibal, where the mighty Mississippi shaped young Sam's imagination. Walk the same streets that inspired Tom Sawyer's adventures, explore the author's boyhood home, and discover how these rolling hills and river towns gave birth to some of American literature's most cherished tales.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the gentle rhythm of Missouri's seasons at John C. Briscoe, where moderate temperatures create ideal camping conditions from spring through fall. With rain gracing the landscape only about 16% of the time, you'll enjoy mostly clear skies perfect for stargazing and outdoor activities. Pleasant breezes sweep across the lake, keeping summer evenings comfortable, while winter occasionally dusts the landscape with light snow, transforming the campground into a serene wonderland. The moderate wind speeds year-round make it easy to keep campfires crackling and tents secure.
ElevationThe campground rests at a comfortable elevation that provides easy access to both lakefront activities and surrounding recreational areas, creating an accessible outdoor experience for visitors of all ages and abilities.
Natural Features and SceneryMark Twain Lake stretches before you like a shimmering jewel, its 18,600 acres of pristine water reflecting Missouri's big skies and wooded shores. Ancient hardwoods and graceful pines frame your campsite, their canopy alive with songbirds at dawn and whispering stories in the evening breeze. Open meadows bloom with wildflowers in spring and summer, while the surrounding forest provides a natural amphitheater where wild turkeys strut at daybreak and white-tailed deer emerge at dusk. Below the surface, the lake teems with bass, crappie, and catfish, promising anglers tales of their own to share around the campfire.
Geological RegionCarved by the Salt River and transformed into one of Missouri's most spectacular reservoirs, Mark Twain Lake represents a harmonious blend of natural waterways and thoughtful conservation. This northern Missouri gem anchors a diverse recreation ecosystem that includes the adjacent Mark Twain State Park, creating thousands of acres of protected lands where rolling hills meet water's edge. The surrounding landscape tells the story of ancient river valleys and fertile plains, shaped over millennia into the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures and quiet contemplation alike.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe authoritative source mentions 'Accessible Occupant Message,' indicating that the campground may have features that accommodate individuals with disabilities, although specifics are not provided.
Sites SizeThe campground features group sites that can hold between 24 and 36 people, as stated in the authoritative source.
Sites PrivacyThe authoritative source indicates that sites provide shaded areas for tent campers and open spaces for sporting activities, suggesting a mixed level of privacy depending on site location.
Total Campsites6 campsites
Recommended CampsitesGroups hosting events, such as rallies, find the campground ideal due to its spaciousness and electric hookups.
Best CampsitesSeveral users highlighted site GS1 in Loop MB04 as favorable for its space and cleanliness.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in starts at 4:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out by 11:00 AM.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Most sites hold a maximum of 24 to 36 people.
Groups
Most sites accommodate 24 to 36 people, making them ideal for large group gatherings. Facilities include picnic shelters, paved parking, and open spaces for sporting activities.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of six group sites with picnic shelters, playgrounds, and spaces for RV parking and tent camping.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen for reservations May 02, 2025, through September 29, 2025. First-come-first-serve starts June 20, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsRecreation.gov website and mobile app.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come-first-serve availability begins June 20, 2025.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before the arrival date for a $10 fee, with additional penalties for late cancellations (e.g., forfeiting the first night’s fee for group sites).
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
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Activities at the John C. Briscoe Group Use area revolve around the natural features of Mark Twain Lake and its surroundings. Fishing, boating, and hunting are particularly popular, as highlighted in the authoritative source. Wildlife such as deer and turkey are commonly encountered, and bass fishing in the lake is a notable attraction. User reviews focus on the enjoyment of group activities at the site.
Fishing
Fishing is highly popular at Mark Twain Lake, with bass being the most commonly caught fish. The authoritative source emphasizes this activity as a highlight of the campground.Boating
Boating is a widely enjoyed activity at Mark Twain Lake. The authoritative source lists it as one of the primary recreational opportunities offered.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as deer and turkey are common in the area, making it ideal for wildlife viewing. The authoritative source mentions these animals specifically.Winter Activities
No explicit mention of winter activities is made in the authoritative sources.Water Sports
Fishing and boating are the primary water-related activities mentioned in the authoritative sources.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are permitted, but only locally purchased firewood should be burned to prevent disease spread.
- Quiet hours are Null; no specific quiet hours mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife encounters (e.g., deer and turkey) and water activities requiring safety precautions. Seasonal weather extremes may also pose challenges.
Active alertsNo active advisories or warnings mentioned.
Weather forecast
71
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 45%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 3.8 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
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
Police and fire services are likely available in Monroe City, MO (7 miles away). Closest hospital information is not explicitly provided.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 02, 2025 - September 29, 2025
Trash and recyclingNo specific details about trash and recycling facilities are mentioned in the authoritative source or user reviews.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is situated near Mark Twain Lake, allowing easy access to fishing and boating.
Common complaintsUser reviews consistently praise cleanliness and facility adequacy, but one review noted the unavailability of a water faucet/fountain.
HostNull; host details not explicitly mentioned.
Campground Map
20642 HIGHWAY J, MONROE CITY, MO 63456-9359
Driving directionsFrom Hannibal, MO, travel west on highway 36 for 17 miles, then continue south on Route J and travel 10 miles. From Perry, travel north on Route J for 9 miles.
Access to John C. Briscoe Group Use campground is generally straightforward, with paved major roads leading to the site. No seasonal closures or road challenges are noted in the source materials.Nearby places
Hannibal, MO - 25 miles east (approximately 30 minutes drive)
Perry, MO - 9 miles south (approximately 15 minutes drive)
Village of Florida, MO - beside the lake
Monroe City, MO - nearest population center.
Nearby supplies
Essential supplies for camping may be found in Monroe City, MO, located approximately 7 miles away. Details on specific grocery stores, camping supplies, or fuel locations are not provided.
Camper Reviews
0.0
4 reviews
John C. Briscoe Group Use has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for the John C. Briscoe Group Use area are overwhelmingly positive. Users appreciate the spacious group sites, cleanliness, and well-maintained facilities. Several reviewers mentioned their annual group trips to the campground, highlighting its reliability and suitability for large gatherings.
Review Summaries
Based on 4 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean facilities, availability of electric hookups, and spacious group sites accommodating up to 30 people are commonly praised. One user, Ken J, noted, "Thank you for having a group site that...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
A single complaint mentioned by user Leland B involved the water faucet being shut off, suggesting minor issues with utility availability.
Based on 4 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend the campground for large group events and highlight its suitability for RVs and tent camping. Bringing your own water if faucets are turned off may be advisable based on one review.
Based on 4 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Reviews do not provide specific insights tied to seasonal variations, although the authoritative source mentions that the reservable season runs from May to September.
Based on 4 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Group sites for up to 30 people. All sites have electric hookups. There are picnic tables, fire rings, and barbecue grills. Public restrooms and showers available on site." - Nick Lauenstein
"Thank...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site GS1 in Loop MB04 received praise for its cleanliness and suitability for group activities.
Based on 4 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews addressing accessibility features were found.
Based on 4 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews addressing pet policies or pet-friendly features were found.
Based on 4 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025