Missouri · Lake fishing · Monroe City

Frank Russell

Frank Russell
Apr–Jun, Aug–Oct
best months

Overview Frank Russell Campground, set near the picturesque Mark Twain Lake, has a location near the dam, providing campers with easy access to the lake, river and surrounding attractions. The campground also features an amphitheater with weekly events in the summer. The lake's namesake and legendary author and humorist, Mark Twain, was born in a town beside the lake. Recreation The 32-mile long Joanna Trail is accessible from the campground. Here, horseback riders, mountain bikers and hikers can enjoy the rough and varied terrain that meanders along the northern banks of the lake, across bluffs and over hills. Campfire programs are provided every Saturday from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Facilities Adjacent to the campground, equestrian campers can make use of the shaded horse stalls. Campsites are equipped with electric hookups, paved parking, grills and picnic tables. Other amenities include showers, playgrounds and vault toilets.Natural Features Mark Twain Lake is sourced by the Salt River in northeast Missouri. The Clarence Cannon Dam sits on the eastern edge of the lake, providing flood control and hydroelectricity to the region. Nearby Attractions While here, many visitors tour the birthplace of world-famous humorist and author, Mark Twain, in Florida, Missouri. The David C. Berti Shooting Range is below the dam and the M.W. Boudreaux Visitor Center is located on the south end of the Dam.

  • Best time to go · Apr–Jun, Aug–Oct

    Best time to visit Frank Russell

    Best months: April–June and August–October. Best months have typical highs of 55–85 °F, lows of 30 °F or warmer (32 °F where the station doesn't record snow), at most one snowy day and no more than 12 wet days.

    1. Jan

      36° / 18°

    2. Feb

      40° / 21°

    3. Mar

      52° / 31°

    4. Apr

      64° / 42°

    5. May

      73° / 54°

    6. Jun

      83° / 63°

    7. Jul

      86° / 66°

    8. Aug

      85° / 64°

    9. Sep

      79° / 55°

    10. Oct

      67° / 44°

    11. Nov

      53° / 32°

    12. Dec

      41° / 23°

    Typical high / low (°F) and days with rain or snow, 1991–2020. Measured at Monroe City, MO, 8 mi away at 741 ft. This station doesn't record snowfall. Source: NOAA NCEI U.S. Climate Normals 1991–2020.