Ray Behrens
4.31574 reviews20642 HIGHWAY J, MONROE CITY, MO 63456-9359, USA
Ray Behrens
$24.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$24.00
Hookup Site Fee$30.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$30.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Standard Electric sites range from $24 to $30 per night during peak season. Group Shelter Electric sites are available for $30 per night.
About this campground
Nestled along the sun-dappled southeastern shores of Mark Twain Lake, Ray Behrens Campground invites you to experience Missouri's natural beauty across three thoughtfully designed camping loops. Whether you choose the wildlife-rich Deer Run, the prairie-inspired Little Bluestem, or the sheltered Cedar Ridge, you'll find modern comforts seamlessly blended with nature's tranquility. Each site features electric hookups, while accessible facilities including hot showers, clean restrooms, and family-friendly playgrounds ensure comfort for campers of all ages. The nearby marina serves as your gateway to endless water adventures on the lake's sparkling expanse.
Ray Behrens Campground provides various camping options, including tent sites, RV sites with full hookups, and group camping facilities.
Historical SignificanceCamp where literary history comes alive in the homeland of America's most beloved storyteller. Samuel Clemens, better known as Mark Twain, drew his first breath in nearby Florida, Missouri, and spent his formative years along these very waterways that now bear his pen name. His boyhood home in Hannibal stands as a testament to the adventures that inspired Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn, offering modern visitors a chance to walk in the footsteps of literary greatness while creating their own outdoor memories.
Weather and SeasonsFrom the vibrant wildflower blooms of March through the golden hues of November, Ray Behrens welcomes campers to experience the full spectrum of Missouri's seasonal beauty. Spring arrives with gentle breezes and budding trees, summer brings warm days perfect for lake activities, while autumn paints the surrounding hills in brilliant oranges and reds. Each season offers its own unique charm and outdoor opportunities during the campground's active months.
Natural Features and SceneryThe campground unfolds across a landscape where dense Missouri woodlands meet the shimmering waters of Mark Twain Lake, creating a haven for both wildlife and wonder-seekers. Towering oaks and hickories provide natural shade canopies, while deer, wild turkey, and songbirds make regular appearances for patient observers. Winding trails beckon hikers through valleys carved by the meandering Salt River, revealing hidden vistas and quiet spots perfect for contemplation. Each sunrise brings mist rising from the water, and evenings reward campers with spectacular sunsets painting the sky above the rolling hills.
Geological RegionRay Behrens sits within north-central Missouri's captivating tapestry of rolling hills and river valleys, where the ancient Salt River has carved its way through limestone bluffs and fertile bottomlands. This geological masterpiece culminated in the creation of the magnificent 18,000-acre Mark Twain Lake, transforming the landscape into a water recreation paradise. The undulating terrain tells a story millions of years in the making, where prehistoric seas once covered the land, leaving behind the rich soils and dramatic topography that define this scenic corner of the Show-Me State.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground provides accessible flush toilets and showers near campsites. Reviews also mention the availability of accessible occupant messages.
Sites SizeCampsites are spacious and noted by reviewers as providing ample room for camping setups.
Sites PrivacySites are described as spacious and secluded, offering significant privacy due to spacing and surrounding greenery.
Total Campsites200 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring leveling blocks as some sites have uneven terrain.
Best CampsitesDeer Run Loop campsites are popular for lake views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
4:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Stay limited to 14 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
No specific details provided.
Groups
Group sites are available at a nightly rate of $30.00 during peak season.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThree loops: Deer Run, Little Bluestem, and Cedar Ridge.
Open and Closed SeasonReservable season opens March 28, closes November 17.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo specific details provided.
Cancellation PolicyLate cancellations for individual campsites incur a $10 fee plus forfeiture of the first night's fee if canceled after 12:00 AM local time on the day before check-in.
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
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Ray Behrens Campground offers a diverse range of recreational activities for campers, including hiking, fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. The campground is also known for its proximity to Mark Twain Lake and historical attractions, such as the author's birthplace in Florida, MO.
Hiking
Hiking trails are available throughout the campground, with access to lake views and wooded areas. One user commented, 'The trails were nice but a bit risky with large rocks.'Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity at Mark Twain Lake, with opportunities for catching various fish species. One user noted, 'The lake is truly a haven for the avid fisherman.' Bank fishing spots are limited and could be improved, according to another review.Swimming
Swimming is accessible via nearby beaches like Spalding Beach, which users described as beautiful with shower facilities and picnic areas. However, beach access is unavailable after Labor Day.Biking
Biking trails are available within the campground and are well-suited for casual riders. One user stated, 'Great location for people with bicycles.'Boating
Boating is highly encouraged, with a nearby marina and boat ramp available for campers. Some users recommended improvements in boat ramp organization.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a favored activity among campers, with sightings of deer and birds commonly reported. 'It was beautiful and we got to see a deer right outside our camper,' noted one user.Beach activities
Beach-related activities are available at nearby Spalding Beach, featuring sandy and grassy areas ideal for relaxation.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly mentioned.Water Sports
Water sports such as kayaking and canoeing are implied but not explicitly highlighted in the resources provided.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Firewood restrictions are in effect to prevent the spread of invasive insects and diseases.
- Quiet hours begin at 10:00 PM.
Hazards
General hazardsRecent reviews highlight flooding issues during storms and muddy conditions.
Active alertsNo specific alerts 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
No specific details provided.
Good to know
Peak season datesMarch 28 - November 17.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available, including trash pickup schedules as observed by some users.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located near Mark Twain Lake, providing ample opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming.
Common complaintsPoor restroom maintenance, issues with outdated infrastructure, muddy campsites, and challenges with leveling RVs are frequent complaints.
HostNo specific details provided.
Campground Map
20642 HIGHWAY J, MONROE CITY, MO 63456-9359, USA
Driving directionsFrom Hannibal, MO, travel west on Highway 36 for 17 miles, turn south onto Route J and drive 12 miles to the campground.
The campground is accessible via paved roads. No information available about seasonal closures or terrain challenges.Nearby places
Hannibal, MO: 25 miles east
Florida, MO: Nearby
Nearby supplies
No specific details provided.
Camper Reviews
4.3
574 reviews
Ray Behrens is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews for Ray Behrens Campground are generally positive, with an average sentiment rating of 4.16. Common themes include spacious campsites, well-maintained grounds, and proximity to Mark Twain Lake and historical attractions. Issues with restroom cleanliness, outdated facilities, and poor cell phone service are frequently noted.
Review Summaries
Based on 574 reviews
What Campers Love
Spacious campsites, beautiful lake views, well-maintained trails, and friendly staff are recurring positive aspects in reviews.
Based on 574 reviewsCommon Concerns
Restrooms and showers are often described as dirty and outdated, with reports of broken fixtures and poor maintenance. Cell phone and internet service are noted as unreliable.
Based on 574 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring leveling blocks, especially for RV sites. Prepare for limited cell coverage and poor Wi-Fi connectivity. Consider visiting off-peak seasons to avoid overcrowding.
Based on 574 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Positive experiences tend to peak in spring and fall, with campers praising the tranquility and natural beauty. Summer experiences often highlight overcrowding and maintenance issues, while winter...
Based on 574 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Ray Behrens is the 'gold standard' by which we compare all other campgrounds.' 2. 'The trails were nice but a bit risky with large rocks.' 3. 'Beautiful campground with spacious sites. Well...
Based on 574 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific complaints include issues with leveling (e.g., Site 97 causing high steps due to asphalt pad misalignment). Several sites, including 144 and 137, are noted for being well-maintained but...
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Accessibility Features
Accessibility features such as paved trails and accessible facilities are noted positively. However, reviews do not provide specific insights from users with disabilities.
Based on 574 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but several reviews noted issues with loose dogs and lack of enforcement of leash rules.
Based on 574 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025