Ozark Trail: Sutton Bluff Trailhead
This trailhead allows hikers and equestrian users to access the Ozark Trail (OT Karkaghne Section from near the Sutton Bluff campground.
This 25-mile OT section originates at MO Hwy J just east of Oates. It meanders south across the forested watershed for the West Fork of the Black river to the Sutton Bluff campground, and beyond to the Blair Creek section at MO Hwy 32 and P.
General Information
Camping
Sutton Bluff Recreation Area
This is a loop campground adjacent to the West Fork of the Black River. Most sites are roomy, with a wide, flat-to-gently sloping paved parking spur. There is a lot of space between campsites.
Each of these has a picnic table, fire ring, and lantern post. Flush toilet and showers available.
Can accommodate RV/trailer combinations of up to 50’ in length. There are a few sites that cannot accommodate trailers or large RV’s, they are 29, 32, and 33.
Electrical hookups available at this location. No water or sewer hookups available.
1 group camp site which can accommodate up to 50 people.
Dispersed Camping
You can dispersed camp along the Ozark Trail.
Dispersed camping is the term used for free camping anywhere in the National Forest OUTSIDE of a designated campground. Dispersed camping means there are no toilets, no structures, no trash cans, no treated water, and no fire grates. There are extra responsibilities required for this type of camp. It's a must to educate yourself before you try it, but we hope the adventure of dispersed camping in the Mark Twain National Forest calls to you!
- Pick a Campsite and follow the Leave No Trace Principles
- Camp 100 feet away from trails and water sources.
- Treat any water found in the area before consuming it.
- Human waste (Feces) must be buried at least 6 inches deep and covered.
- Pack out all of your garbage.
January - December
On the Trail
- No motorized vehicles are allowed on the trail or past designated parking areas.
At the Trailhead
- No overnight camping in day use areas at any time of year.
- Dogs must be on a 6 foot leash in the day use area
- No trash containers in the parking lot; please pack out all your trash.
- Fireworks are prohibited.
Trail Use
Dogs are allowed on hiking trails, as long as they are kept on a leash. Unleashed dogs can pose a danger to your pet, the natural resources of the area, and other forest visitors.
- Leashes must be six feet, or shorter, when in developed recreation sites, including trails within the boundaries (36 CFR 261.16(j)) when they are not inside an enclosed vehicle or tent.
- Yield your leashed dog around other hikers and horses.
- Pack out your dogs waste or bury it 100 feet from water and trails.
Camping
- Keep dogs on a six-foot, or shorter, leash when they are not inside a tent.
- Store dog food in bear-resistant containers and feed your pet away from the campsite.
- Pick up and bag your dog’s waste. Place it in a provided trash receptacle or pack it out.
- Do not leave your dog unattended at any time.
- Do not leave your dog in the vehicle on a hot day.
- Keep your dog in your tent or vehicle at night.
- Ensure that there is ample water available for your pet.
Wildlife
- Do not allow them to interact with wildlife
Address: 1301 South Main Street Salem, MO 65560
Phone: 573-729-6656
Hours: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm, Monday to Friday (Closed on federal holidays)
Office Email: sm.fs.marktwainnf@usda.gov
Getting There
Latitude / Longitude
Latitude: 37.4786085
Longitude: -91.0091852
Directions
From Centerville, Missouri,
- travel 3 miles northeast on Highway 21.
- Turn left and take County Road 907 northwest for 7 miles,
- then turn left on County Road 849 and travel south for 3 miles to the campground.
Facility and Amenity Information
Restrooms
Restrooms are not available at this site.
Water
Potable water is not available at this site.
Nearby Trails
Recreation Opportunities
Day Hikes Info
This 25 mile trail section originates at MO Hwy J just east of Oates. It meanders south across the forested watershed for the West Fork of the Black river to the Sutton Bluff campground, and beyond to the Blair Creek section at MO Hwy 32 and P.
Backpacking Info
This 25 mile trail section originates at MO Hwy J just east of Oates. It meanders south across the forested watershed for the West Fork of the Black river to the Sutton Bluff campground, and beyond to the Blair Creek section at MO Hwy 32 and P.
Horseback Riding Info
This 25 mile trail section originates at MO Hwy J just east of Oates. It meanders south across the forested watershed for the West Fork of the Black river to the Sutton Bluff campground, and beyond to the Blair Creek section at MO Hwy 32 and P.
Biking - Mountain Info
This 25 mile trail section originates at MO Hwy J just east of Oates. It meanders south across the forested watershed for the West Fork of the Black river to the Sutton Bluff campground, and beyond to the Blair Creek section at MO Hwy 32 and P.