Overview
The Noblett Lake Loop is a gentle 3.5-mile circuit around a quiet Ozark lake in the Willow Springs Ranger District of Mark Twain National Forest. Noblett Lake sits in the southern portion of the forest, farther from the major recreation corridors and receiving correspondingly less foot traffic than the more famous destinations near the Current River. That lower profile suits the lake's character: it is a modest, peaceful place, with oak-hickory ridges rising from the shoreline and the sound of the water carrying across in the morning stillness.
The recreation area around the lake was developed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, and a stone spring house built by the CCC remains in good condition near the south shore. The CCC infrastructure stone walls, picnic shelters, the campground layout gives the area a historical dimension that many more modern recreation areas lack.
At 200 feet of elevation gain over 3.5 miles, this is one of the easier loops in the forest. The trail surface is generally good and well-maintained. Fall color on the surrounding ridge oak turning russet, hickory going gold is reflected in the lake in late October, making autumn a particularly scenic time to visit.
The Route
Miles 0 to 1.5: From the recreation area parking lot, the loop follows the western shore of the lake with consistent water views. The trail passes the CCC spring house around mile 1, with an interpretive sign explaining its history. The spring house itself still flows with cold, clear water year-round.
Miles 1.5 to 2.5: The trail crosses the dam at the south end of the lake and follows the eastern shore through denser forest. This section is slightly more wooded and less open than the western side, making it the quieter half of the loop.
Miles 2.5 to 3.5: The northern section returns to the recreation area. A picnic area near the end of the loop has a view across the full length of the lake.
When to Visit
April through November covers the main season, with late October being the visual peak for fall color. Summer is popular with campers and families. Check conditions for any seasonal closure information.
What to Bring
- Carry a liter of water. Water is available at the spring house, but treat any natural water source before drinking.
- Tick repellent from April through October
- Sunscreen for the open western shoreline
- A Missouri fishing license if planning to fish
Practical Details
A vault toilet is available at the recreation area. No hiking fee (as of 2026). The campground is adjacent and reservable. Follow Leave No Trace principles. See the national forest camping guide for camping rules.
Getting There
From Willow Springs, Missouri, take State Highway 76 west approximately 5 miles. Follow Forest Service signs to the Noblett Lake Recreation Area. Willow Springs is in Howell County on US-63, approximately 100 miles south of Rolla. GPS coordinates are approximately 36.95°N, 92.05°W.