About RAY BEHRENS
Overview Ray Behrens is a scenic campground and recreation area, conveniently located on the southeastern shores of Mark Twain Lake. Here, visitors can enjoy the perks of the campground, go boating on the lake or explore the area's historic attractions. Twain, the legendary author, was born in a village beside the lake and grew up in a town about 20 miles down the road. Recreation Mark Twain Lake provides countless opportunities for outdoor recreation – boating, swimming, fishing, picnicking, camping, hiking and hunting to name a few. Facilities Ray Behrens Campground has three loops: Deer Run, Little Bluestem and Cedar Ridge. All campsites come with electric hookups. Showers and accessible flush toilets are in close proximity of every site. The park also features a marina and playgrounds.Natural Features The Salt River flows through rolling hills of north-central Missouri, where it is dammed to form the 18,000-acre Mark Twain Lake. A variety of recreation areas surround the lake, including the Mark Twain State Park. 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, turn south onto Route J and go 12 miles to the campground.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
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
- 💧
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 RAY BEHRENS
Heading to RAY BEHRENS? 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 RAY BEHRENS?
No central reservation system listed for RAY BEHRENS. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/233597) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to RAY BEHRENS?
From Hannibal MO, travel west on Highway 36 for 17 miles, turn south onto Route J and go 12 miles to the campground.
How do I contact RAY BEHRENS?
You can reach the park at phone: 573-735-4097 or email: marktwaininfo@usace.army.mil.
References & Official Resources
