Council Bluff Recreation Area

Campground closure

Closed (US Forest Service)

Reducing Lead Exposure Risk at Campgrounds

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In 2012, The Mark Twain National Forest completed soil sampling in many areas of Southeast Missouri lead mining area. A few recreation sites were found to have elevated concentrations of lead, but there was not a clear trend indicating where we would find lead.

In Fall 2014, we partnered with the Missouri Department of Natural Resources to sample every campsite and day-use area at in the area for lead (Pb) in surface soil and crushed rock, which led to the current action.

In the Summer of 2015, we capped contaminated areas at 100 campsites and day use areas. The intent of this action is to reduce human contact with lead in soils by putting down a layer of clean material that has low lead concentrations. This project was a clean-up action under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) and is categorized as a Time Critical Removal Action

The Forest Service plans to review the protectiveness of a CERLCA Time Critical Removal Action after elevated levels of lead (Pb) were discovered. This protectiveness review will allow us to determine if any additional work needs to be conducted at these sites.

The risks of lead exposure at these sites are generally considered to be low, especially if you are only at these sites a couple of times a year.

The Council Bluff Recreation Area, located next to the largest lake on the Mark Twain National Forest, is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy the outdoors. The area provides ample opportunities for camping, picnicking, hiking, fishing, swimming and more.

The site is large and spread out, the campground and beach are about a 1 mile hike apart, the hike/bike is downhill from the campground to the beach, but uphill coming back.

Located in southern Missouri, the Council Bluff Lake was created by a dam built across Big River. It is 440 acres in size and 87 feet deep in some places.

The Wild Boar Campground and sheltered picnic area are available for individual families or large groups.

The Chapel Hill Beach is at the eastern end of the campground and provides 1.25 acres of sandy beach. The beach is accessible via a short walkway from the parking area.

Boating and paddling is a popular pastime on the lake, but all boats on the lake must operate at a no-wake speed. Visitors can access the water via the two boat ramps located at the lake.

Fishing is also available. Anglers can expect a catch of a variety of freshwater fish, including bass, bluegills, catfish and crappies.

The 12-mile Council Bluff Trail encircles the lake, with spurs to the campground. Hikers can enjoy scenic views of the lake and a look at the Mark Twain wilderness. The Ozark Trail connects to the Council Bluff Trail at Trace Creek mile 15.

Waterfowl hunting is allowed on Council Bluff Lake and the nearby Enough Fields provide upland game opportunities. A variety of wildlife makes its home in the heavily wooded area.

A Printable Brochure and map is available.

Fees

Day Use $5/day 20 people - $10/day 74 people - $50/day Campsite (Non-Electric): Single - $15/night Double - $25/night Group Campsite 1 - 50 people: $50/night 51 - 74 people: $100/night

Rules

No food, glass containers or pets on beach. Boat motors are limited to 10 horsepower or must be operated at a no wake speed if larger than 10 horsepower. Horses and off-road vehicles are prohibited in developed areas. Equestrian use is prohibited on Council Bluff Lake Trail Fireworks are prohibited. Campsite parking allows for two vehicles per site. Park only in designated parking areas. No more than 8 people are permitted at single sites (16 for double sites). Dogs must be on a 6 foot leash in the campground. Only collect dead and downed wood for campfires. Jet skis are prohibited on the lake

Directions

Please note: Read the "directions" section below and before driving to the location enter "Council Bluff Campground" into your device as the destination; but do not just search for "Council Bluff". Searching for "Council Bluff" will bring up the lake and may cause your GPS to bring you in from the north, where the road is rough and you will need to turn around and re-route to the west side of the lake. (Utilize this GPS coordinate to arrive at proper destination: 37.72261, -90.937792). From Potosi, Go south 10 miles on Highway 21 Turn right onto C Highway and go approximately 6 miles. Turn left on Highway DD for about 8 miles to the entrance, on the left, for Council Bluff Recreation Area.