Marble Creek Recreation Area
4.5531 reviewsnull
Marble Creek Recreation Area
$15.00 - $15.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$15.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Single site: $15/night. A 50% discount is available for Interagency Access or Senior Pass holders for single campsites occupied by the pass holder. Day use fee: $5/vehicle/day or $20/annual pass.
About this campground
Escape to the tranquil beauty of Marble Creek Recreation Area, where 25 single campsites and one spacious double site await adventurers seeking an authentic wilderness experience. Tucked away in the heart of Mark Twain National Forest, this remote gem beckons with the gentle murmur of crystal-clear Marble Creek flowing through ancient dolomite formations. Whether you're casting a line into pristine waters, diving into refreshing swimming holes, or exploring scenic hiking trails, this natural sanctuary offers the perfect blend of outdoor recreation and peaceful solitude.
Marble Creek Recreation Area caters primarily to primitive camping enthusiasts. "Primitive campground, remote," is a sentiment echoed in many user reviews. The campground offers 25 single sites and 1 double site, each equipped with basic facilities like a picnic table, fire ring, and lantern post.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time as you explore the fascinating remnants of a once-thriving grist mill that served the local community until 1935. These weathered stone foundations and the enduring mill dam stand as silent witnesses to the area's industrious past, when farmers from miles around brought their grain to be ground into flour. Today, these historic structures add a layer of intrigue to your camping experience, inviting you to imagine the bustling activity that once filled this now-peaceful valley.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of Missouri's seasons at Marble Creek, where each visit brings its own unique charm. Winter transforms the landscape into a crisp wonderland with temperatures dipping to around 30°F, occasionally dusted with snow. As spring awakens the forest, gentle rains nourish the wildflowers and fill the creek to its banks. Summer invites you to bask in warm days reaching 87°F, though the weather can shift from pleasantly dry to delightfully muggy—perfect for those refreshing creek swims. Fall paints the canopy in brilliant hues as temperatures moderate, creating ideal camping conditions.
Elevationnull
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape where nature has crafted the perfect camping backdrop. Marble Creek lives up to its reputation with waters so clear you can count the smooth stones on the creek bed below. Towering hardwoods and evergreens create a natural cathedral overhead, filtering sunlight into dancing patterns across your campsite. The historic mill dam has transformed the creek into two distinct personalities—above, a mirror-like pond reflects the sky and surrounding forest, while below, the water tumbles and rushes over rocks, creating a symphony of sound that lulls campers to sleep each night.
Geological RegionDiscover the geological wonders of Mark Twain National Forest at Marble Creek, where millions of years of natural artistry have created stunning dolomite formations. These colorful mineral deposits, ranging from cream to rose-hued tones, give the creek its distinctive character and crystalline clarity. The interplay between the ancient bedrock and the historic mill dam creates a unique landscape where natural and human history converge, offering visitors a chance to witness how water, stone, and time have shaped this remarkable corner of Missouri.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground does not explicitly list accessibility features, but vault toilets are centrally located within the campground loop.
Sites SizeThe sites vary in size. According to reviews, "Most have plenty of room and good places to set up your tent."
Sites PrivacySites provide a good level of privacy as they are shielded by trees and nestled between them. User reviews frequently highlight the seclusion, describing the campground as "nestled lovingly between trees" and "secluded from each other."
Total Campsites26 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose creekside sites for easy access to water and scenic views. Sites are shielded by trees for added privacy.
Best Campsites"Creekside campsites are highly recommended for their proximity to Marble Creek and shaded areas."
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
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Check-out
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Stay Limit
No stated stay limit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Single campsites allow up to 8 guests, double sites allow up to 16 guests.
Groups
- There are no designated group camping sites
- the campground consists of single and double sites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground loop includes sites along either side of the road. Creekside sites are located on a hill with paths leading down to the creek.
Open and Closed SeasonApril 3 through October, with trash service available only during this period.
Reservation PlatformsReservations may be available. Details are likely listed on the USDA Forest Service website.
Walk-in Availabilitynull
Cancellation Policynull
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Marble Creek Recreation Area offers a variety of outdoor activities that cater to nature lovers and adventure seekers. Activities include swimming, fishing, hiking, picnicking, and wildlife viewing. "Great place for swimming and fishing," and "Hidden gem," are typical sentiments found in reviews.
Hiking
The main trailhead for the 21-mile Marble Creek Section of the Ozark Trail is located directly across the highway from the campground entrance. The trail connects Marble Creek Campground to Crane Lake Picnic Area. "Beautiful trail, quiet campground," as described by a user, makes this a popular hiking location.Fishing
Marble Creek offers bank and wade fishing for smallmouth bass and panfish. The creek features fast-moving water with large rocks, and the grist mill dam forms a pond approximately 4 feet deep. "Fishing opportunities for smallmouth bass and panfish," according to official content and user reviews.Swimming
Swimming is popular at Marble Creek, particularly in the pond formed by the remains of the grist mill dam. "Enter the stream at your own risk," as there are no lifeguards, depth markers, or safety measures provided.Wildlife viewing
Marble Creek is an excellent location for wildlife viewing, with eagles frequently sighted near the area. "Watch at dawn and dusk when most wildlife species are active enough to view," according to official sources.Winter Activities
Winter usability is limited due to the seasonal nature of the campground and day-use area closures.Water Sports
The creek is suitable for wading and swimming but no specialized water sports like kayaking or canoeing are mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted but must use dead and downed wood only.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM
Hazards
General hazards"Please be aware of snakes around the swimming area. Rocks and drop-offs in the creek are not marked, and the current can be strong during high water periods."
Active alertsnull
Weather forecast
75
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 38%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 5.4 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
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
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Good to know
Peak season datesnull
Trash and recyclingTrash service is available only seasonally, from April to October. Users should plan to pack out all trash outside of this timeframe. "Wonderful primitive campground...pack out all your trash," according to reviewers.
Proximity to water featuresMarble Creek offers direct access to the creek and swimming areas near the historic grist mill dam.
Common complaintsSome user reviews mention issues like trash left by previous occupants and lack of drinking water.
Hostnull
Campground Map
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Driving directionsFrom Fredericktown: From the intersection of MO Hwy 72 and US Hwy 67, head South on Hwy 67 approx. 2.8 miles to the MO State Hwy E exit, then turn Right/West onto Hwy E. Travel approx. 15.5 miles along State Hwy E; Marble Creek will be on your right. From Arcadia/Ironton: Head south on MO Hwy 21/Hwy 72 for approx. 1.5 miles to State Hwy E. Travel approx. 12.5 miles along State Hwy E; Marble Creek will be on your left.
State Highway E is the main access point. The road conditions are generally suitable for regular vehicles, but the campground is located on a hill and might require careful driving.Nearby places
Fredericktown (approx. 20 minutes), Arcadia/Ironton (approx. 15 minutes)
Nearby supplies
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Camper Reviews
4.6
31 reviews
Marble Creek Recreation Area is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's remote and serene environment, crystal-clear creek water, and proximity to nature. Several users emphasize the primitive nature of the campground, mentioning the lack of amenities like potable water and electricity.
Review Summaries
Based on 31 reviews
What Campers Love
Users often praise the beauty and seclusion of the campground, with comments like "Beautiful secluded campground," "Hidden gem," and "Absolutely gorgeous camp grounds!" Swimming and fishing are...
Based on 31 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include the lack of potable water, trash left by previous campers, and occasional inconsistency in restroom cleanliness. "Bring water as they have none," and "Disappointing both that...
Based on 31 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Many reviewers recommend bringing essential supplies like drinking water, toilet supplies, and trash bags. "Bring everything you need," and "Wonderful primitive campground if you're OK with...
Based on 31 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
User experiences vary seasonally, with higher traffic during summer months and complaints about closures during winter. "Nice inexpensive FS campground...pretty much empty on a mid-September...
Based on 31 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Wonderful place to camp with your family. The water is crystal clear and it's gorgeous there." "Great inexpensive FS campground right on Marble Creek." "Primitive campground, remote. Scenic river."...
Based on 31 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
The creekside sites are particularly praised for their proximity to water and scenic views. "Most camping spots have a trail to the creek," and "A few sites right on the creek" are noted by multiple...
Based on 31 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No specific accessibility reviews are available.
Based on 31 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but must be on a leash. "Nice place to bring the kids," and "Dogs must be on a leash in the campground," indicate pet-friendliness.
Based on 31 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025