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Recreation Region: Ozark Trail

Ozark Trail - Karkaghne Section

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.

Section Length: 29 miles

Difficulty: Moderate

Going North: Middle River Section

Going South: Blair Creek Section

Specific Trail Information

Trail Number

076162

Trail Type

Standard/Terra Trail — A trail that has a surface consisting predominantly of the ground and that is designed and managed to accommodate use on that surface.

General Information

Camping

Dispersed camping is allowed along the trail. There are no toilets, no structures, no trash cans, no treated water, and no fire grates available.

Trail Conditions

For additional information on the Ozark Trail, including trail conditions and detailed maps, visit the Ozark Trail Association.

  • Hiking, Biking and Horseback riding is permitted.
    • Equestrian use limited due to trail design south of Sutton Bluff campground.
  • No motorized vehicles are permitted on any section of the Ozark Trail.
  • Camp at least 100 feet from the trail, treat all water used, bury human waste and pack out all trash

USDA Forest Service Logo

Address: 10019 W. State Hwy. 8 Potosi, MO 63664
Phone: 573-438-5427
Hours: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm, Monday to Friday; District Offices closed 1 - 1:30 for lunch (Closed on federal holidays)
Office Email: sm.fs.marktwainnf@usda.gov

Getting There

Parking

Trailheads (north to south)

  • Highway J Trailhead
  • Brushy Creek Lodge Parking
  • Sutton Bluff Trailhead
  • Highway P Trailhead

Directions

From Bunker MO, go 4 miles south on MO Hwy 72 to trailhead located at junction of 72 and MO Hwy P. Karkaghne trail runs north from there.

Additional Information

Operated By

USDA Forest Service

Nearby Recreation Sites

Recreation Opportunities

Recreation Groups

A group of people hiking
The Ozark Trail is 230-miles between Onondaga Cave State Park and the western edge of the Mark Twain National Forest. The trail is multi-use for hiking/backpacking, biking and equestrians in 13 sections, all of which are on the Mark Twain National Forest.
A white goose on Noblett Lake

The areas listed below are not only easy to get to, but most are known locations for good birding.  

These sites were selected because they have:

Last updated July 21, 2025