Mark Twain State Park

Park Information

Nestled in the Salt River Hills of north-central Missouri, Mark Twain State Park gives visitors access to sprawling Mark Twain Lake, as well as unparalleled outdoors activities. The terrain is covered by bluffs overlooking the lake and stands of oak, hickory and maple that are filled with white-tailed deer, turkey and other wildlife. Numerous picnic areas, two four-lane boat ramps and more than 6 miles of hiking trails with lake views offer something for everyone.

NEW IN 2024: The park now offers a beach wheelchair that visitors with mobility issues can use during normal beach hours. Click here for more information.

Park Hours

For temporary closures related to weather, stewardship activities and maintenance, as well as temporary trail closures, click here to visit our Park and Site Status Map.


On the following days (actual or observed), staff will not be available and park buildings will be closed: Thanksgiving Day; Nov. 29, 2024; Christmas Eve; Christmas Day; New Year’s Eve; New Year’s Day; Martin Luther King Jr. Day; Lincoln’s Birthday; and Presidents Day. 

Park Grounds:

Sunrise to 10 p.m., year-round

Park Office hours

April through October (on-season) 

10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday

Closed Sunday and Monday 

November through March (off-season) 

10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Friday and Saturday

Closed Sunday through Thursday

Beach hours

Beach closed for the season