Silver Mines 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.

Silver Mines offers a variety of recreational opportunities and is abundant with historic and geological wonders. This beautiful area is located along the St. Francis River, the only river in Missouri classified as "white water," and is used for kayaking during the spring high waters. People enjoy hiking and fishing along the river throughout the year.

Silver Mines is located at a historic mining operation and is known for its Precambrian granite and felsite rocks. Silver Mines Recreation Area is named for the abandoned “Einstein Mine”, which was mined for Silver, Tungsten and Lead. The Einstein Silver Mining Company began mining in 1877, and mining ceased completely in 1946.

Nearby visitors can visit other natural attractions in the area, including Elephant Rocks State Park and Johnsons Shut-ins State Park.

Millstream Gardens Conservation Area, located up-river from Silver Mines, is the put-in for those looking to experience the white water on the St. Francis river.

This is a large recreation area, and particularly busy during the spring. However, visitors who come during the fall months will be treated to spectacular fall color along the St. Francis River.

Site Map

A printable Recreation Area Map.

Fees

Day-Use Fee: $5 per vehicle, $10 per bus, $40 for season pass; Camping Fees: $15 for single non-electric, $25 for double non-electric, $20 for single electric, $35 for double electric; Group campsite $50 to $100 depending upon number of campers.

Rules

ATV's & UTV's may not be operated within this recreation area 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. This site has a campground host in Riverside Campground Loop

Directions

From Fredericktown : From the intersection of MO Hwy 72 and US Hwy 67, head West on Hwy 72 approx. 4.3 miles to State Hwy D, near the small community of Oak Grove. Turn Left onto Hwy D, and travel approx. 2.9 miles to the entrance on your right. From Arcadia/Ironton : Head East on MO Hwy 72 approx. 13.6 miles to State Hwy D, near the small comminuty of Oak Grove. Turn Right on Hwy D, and travel approx. 2.9 miles to the entrance on your right.