Marble Creek Recreation Area

Campground closure

Site Closed

Reducing Lead Exposure Risk at Campgrounds

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.

Marble Creek, which travels through the National Forest for about 20 miles, is named for its colorful deposits of dolomite, which was mined and used as "Taum Sauk Marble" many years ago.

The mineral dolomite is the main component of the sedimentary rock that is also called dolomite. It is similar to the mineral calcite but contains magnesium as well as calcium. Just based on looks, the rock dolomite is often impossible to distinguish from limestone, which is composed mainly of calcite.

Previously, a grist mill operated in the area operated until 1935. Remains of the grist mill dam and building are still visible today.

The site is remote, with the nearest town about 20 minutes away and there is no cell service.

This is a great campground to visit if you are looking for a quiet visit to the forest. This is also a great place for swimming and fishing. Campsites are shaded by the tall trees around the area. There are several Creekside sites available.

Located in the campground is the main trailhead for the Marble Creek Section of the Ozark Trail. The trailhead is across highway D, directly across from the campground entrance.

Fees

Campgrounds: Single - $15.00/night Day Use: $5.00 per vehicle per day There is a 50% discount for camping for anyone with an Interagency Access or Senior Pass. Interagency passes cover the full day use fees, excluding busses.

Rules

Trash service available April - October only. Horses are allowed at trailhead, but not within campground or picnic area. No motorized vehicles permitted on trail system. No motorized vehicles beyond posted signs. 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.

Directions

From 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.