Located in a secluded area of Missouri, Hazel Creek Campground offers a rustic escape for outdoor enthusiasts. Popular among OHV/ATV riders, equestrians, and mountain bikers, this primitive campground provides a unique opportunity to reconnect with nature and explore the surrounding wilderness.
Historic Charm and Natural Beauty
Hazel Creek is steeped in history, being part of the Old Lead Belt where much of the nation's lead ore was once mined. The campground features the foundation of a historic lead smelter, offering a glimpse into Missouri's rich mining heritage. Additionally, the Trail of Tears National Historic Trail passes through the site, adding to its historical significance.
A Haven for Outdoor Adventurers
With its remote location and lack of cell phone service, Hazel Creek is the perfect destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of modern life. The campground serves as a trailhead for the Ozark Trail, providing access to miles of scenic hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking trails. Horse enthusiasts will find several spurs large enough to accommodate horse trailers, making it easy to explore the area on horseback.
Primitive Camping, Unspoiled Beauty
Hazel Creek Campground offers 10 individual sites, each equipped with parking spurs, fire rings, tables, and lantern posts. While there are no drinking water or toilet facilities, the campground's rustic charm and unspoiled beauty more than makeup for any lack of amenities. The natural surroundings are left to flourish, providing a true wilderness experience for visitors.
Plan Your Adventure at Hazel Creek
Whether you're seeking a weekend getaway or a longer adventure, Hazel Creek Campground offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Missouri's natural beauty and history. Pack your gear, leave your worries behind, and discover the untamed wilderness of Hazel Creek.
Directions:
From Potosi,
From the intersection of MO State Hwy 21 and MO State Hwy 8 in Potosi, head West on Hwy 8 approx. 0.2 mile to Hwy P. Turn Left onto Hwy P and head West/South for approx. 14 miles to Hwy C. Turn Right onto Hwy C and head West for approx. 4.1 miles to Hwy Z on your right. Turn Right and head North onto Hwy Z (aka Brazil Rd/Co Rd 657) for approx. 3.1 miles to the campground entrance on your left.
Hazel Creek Campground offers the following facilities and amenities:
- Equestrian trails
- Dispersed campsites
- Picnic tables
- Parking
- Fire rings
- Lantern posts
- Hitching posts
Horse Camping
Horses are welcome in this primitive campground. Some spurs are large enough to accommodate horse trailers.
There are 10 individual sites with parking spurs, fire rings, tables, and lantern posts, but no drinking water, toilets, or regular mowing. Hazel Creek is suitable for watering stock.
Cost Details:
- Free to use.
Notes:
- Do not tie horses directly to trees; if not utilizing hitching posts, use a high line. Scatter manure and leftover hay outside of the campsite.
- Fireworks are prohibited.
- Dogs must be on a 6-foot leash in the campground.
- Only collect dead and downed wood for campfires.
- No trash containers; please pack out all your trash.
- OHVs cannot go on the Ozark Trail
- Mark Twain Forest Supervisor's Office: 573-363-4621 or sm.fs.marktwainnf@usda.gov
Recent test results indicate that there may be some health risks to children six and younger from exposure to lead in areas around the smelter. While potential health risks continue to be assessed, you can reduce the risk of exposure when in the area by:
- Washing face and hands before eating
- Not allowing children six and younger to play in the dirt and tailings (sand-like material left over after the metals have been extracted from the mineral rocks that contained them.)
- Washing tailings and dusting off toys, clothing, vehicles, etc before returning home
If you want to discover and explore other campsites and horse trails, here are some of them that you may visit:
RICHARD J. DORER MEMORIAL HARDWOOD STATE FO - Kruger Campground Loop
MINNESOTA MEMORIAL HARDWOOD STATE FOREST - Zumbro Bottoms Loop
MINNESOTA MEMORIAL HARDWOOD STATE FOREST - Zumbro Bottoms
Hazel Creek Campground does not require reservations for overnight accommodations. Please visit their page here on Top Horse Trails - Hazel Creek Campground for more information.