About JOHN C. BRISCOE GROUP USE
Overview The scenic John C. "Jack" Briscoe Group area, previously named the M.W. Boudreaux Group Area, is an ideal place for families and groups to explore and enjoy Mark Twain Lake. More than 2 million visitors travel to the Mark Twain lake region to enjoy the overall magnetism of the area, thanks in part to the author's beloved classics, "The Adventures of Tom Sawyer" and sequel, "Adventures of Huckleberry Finn."Recreation Fishing, boating and hunting are very popular at John C. Briscoe. Deer and turkey are common wildlife, and bass is the most popular catch in the lake.Facilities The John C. "Jack" Briscoe Group Use Area includes six group campsites with picnic shelters, showers and a central playground. Most sites hold a maximum of 24 to 36 people and offer paved parking for RVs, a shaded area for tent campers and an open area for sporting activities. All sites have electric hookups.Natural Features Mark Twain lake is large reservoir fed by the waters of the Salt River in northern Missouri. A variety of recreation areas line the lake, in addition to Mark Twain State Park on the western edge of the lake. Nearby Attractions Beside the lake is the village of Florida, where Mark Twain was born. Twenty-five miles east is the town of Hannibal, where visitors can tour the author's boyhood home.
How to Get There
From Hannibal, MO, travel west on highway 36 for 17 miles, then continue south on Route J and head south 10 miles. From Perry, travel north on Rt. J for 9 miles.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
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Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
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Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to JOHN C. BRISCOE GROUP USE
Heading to JOHN C. BRISCOE GROUP USE? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for JOHN C. BRISCOE GROUP USE?
No central reservation system listed for JOHN C. BRISCOE GROUP USE. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/233557) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to JOHN C. BRISCOE GROUP USE?
From Hannibal, MO, travel west on highway 36 for 17 miles, then continue south on Route J and head south 10 miles. From Perry, travel north on Rt. J for 9 miles.
How do I contact JOHN C. BRISCOE GROUP USE?
You can reach the park at phone: 573-735-4097 or email: marktwaininfo@usace.army.mil.
References & Official Resources
