What natural areas can be explored near Rolla?

Venture off of Interstate 44 to explore the natural areas surrounding Rolla. The Meramec and Gasconade Rivers are nearby, with rambling waters offering prime places to paddle, fish, and float. Mark Twain National Forest covers 1.5 million acres in Missouri, and Rolla provides a great jumping off point for exploring this wilderness. Lane Spring Recreation Area is just 13 miles south of Rolla, yet feels worlds away, thanks to the bubbling waters of Lane Spring and Little Piney Creek, which is designated as a Blue Ribbon Wild Trout Stream (a rare find in Missouri).