The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Van Buren. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Van Buren camping trip.
In the rolling, forested landscape of Big Spring, two of America's most beautiful spring-fed rivers combine to make up the Ozark National Scenic Riverways. As the first national park area to protect a wild river system, visitors have plenty of scenic water activities to enjoy as well as hiking, horseback riding and wildlife viewing.
The Current River flows past the campground, offering excellent canoeing, tubing, swimming and fishing. Over 130 miles (209 km) of waterways exist within the park. Canoe and kayak rentals and outfitters can be found nearby. Several miles of hiking and horseback riding trails crisscross the region, include the Alley Overlook Trail, Chubb Hollow Trail, Ozark Trail, Cave Spring Trail and Big Springs Trail.
The Current River flows past the campground, offering excellent canoeing, tubing, swimming and fishing. Over 130 miles (209 km) of waterways exist within the park. Canoe and kayak rentals and outfitters can be found nearby. Several miles of hiking and horseback riding trails crisscross the region, include the Alley Overlook Trail, Chubb Hollow Trail, Ozark Trail, Cave Spring Trail and Big Springs Trail.
The Ozark National Scenic Riverways is known for its caves, springs, sinkholes and losing streams, and features over 300 identified caves within its boundaries. The caves range in size from a rock overhang to almost seven miles of identified passages. Eight caves, including an open sinkhole, have been designated as outstanding natural features. The Ozark forest is mostly White oak and Shortleaf pine, Missouri's only native pine species. Along the rivers, Sycamore, Cottonwood, River birch and maples are common. Redbud and dogwoods are also abundant, putting on a spectacular show during most spring months.
Scenic Big Spring is the largest freshwater spring in North America and produces an outflow of 280 million gallons a day. Round Spring Cave is nearby, with ranger-guided tours offered daily during summer months. Historic and picturesque Alley Mill and Alley Spring are also nearby. The mill is open daily in the summer and ranger-guided tours are available upon request.
This location is unstaffed. To speak with our main office for general information, please call: (573) 323-4236.
$30 / night
Sam A. Baker State Park Campground, nestled near Patterson, MO, is a gem for campers of all stripes. Open year-round, this spot offers a mix of tent, RV, cabin, and even glamping accommodations. The campground is known for its serene environment and well-maintained facilities.
One of the standout features is the slow, shallow water areas perfect for young kids, while deeper spots provide a refreshing dip for older kids and adults. The on-site store is a hit, offering surprisingly good food—those loaded nachos are a must-try! Plus, if you forget your bikes, no worries—you can rent them right there.
Campground 2, particularly the gravel side, is a favorite for its quiet ambiance and proximity to the nature center. The park is also pet-friendly, so feel free to bring your furry friends along.
Visitors have praised the clean bathrooms and well-marked roads. The park's natural beauty, with its lush greenery and scenic views, adds to the overall charm. Wildlife sightings, like deer wandering through campsites, add a touch of magic to your stay.
Whether you're here for a quick overnight stop or a longer stay, Sam A. Baker State Park Campground offers a delightful mix of nature, convenience, and family-friendly fun.
The park features a primitive group/special-use camping area with a fire ring and restroom facilities. Call the park for information on how to reserve this area.
Welcome to Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park, nestled near Lesterville, MO. This place is a camper's paradise, offering year-round access and a solid 4.76-star rating from visitors. The campground is known for its spacious and comfortable sites, with some areas providing excellent privacy. Loop 3 and the cabins have open shower houses until April, making late winter camping a breeze.
The park is big-rig friendly and offers electric and water hookups, making it a great spot for RVs. Pets are welcome, and you can even enjoy a cold one since alcohol is allowed. The general store on-site has all the essentials, and there's firewood available for those cozy campfires.
One of the standout features here is the proximity to the Shut-Ins, a natural water park of sorts with rock formations and clear, flowing water. You can walk or bike the paved path to get there, or take a short drive. The Scour Trail is another nearby attraction that's worth checking out.
Visitors have praised the cleanliness of the campground, from the restrooms to the campsites. The river can get busy, especially on weekends, but it's a fantastic spot to cool off. The North Day Use area is a hidden gem for a peaceful picnic by the river.
Whether you're tent camping, bringing an RV, or staying in a cabin, Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park has got you covered. The park's natural beauty, combined with its well-maintained facilities, makes it a top choice for a memorable camping experience.
$11 - $32 / night
The rolling, forested landscape around Alley Spring is where two of America's most beautiful spring-fed rivers combine to make up the Ozark National Scenic Riverways. As the first national park area to protect a wild river system, visitors are able to enjoy various water activities as well as hiking, horseback riding and wildlife viewing.
Canoeing, tubing, swimming and fishing are popular activities on the vast waterways in the region, with over 130 miles (209 km) of water trails. Canoe and kayak rentals and outfitters can be found nearby.A short walk from the campground leads to a popular swimming area on the Jacks Fork River, a crystal clear and spring fed waterway that's cool and refreshing on a hot summer day. Several interpretive trails with educational exhibits meander nearby. Other hiking trails include the Alley Overlook Trail, Chubb Hollow Trail, Ozark Trail, Cave Spring Trail and Big Springs Trail.
Canoeing, tubing, swimming and fishing are popular activities on the vast waterways in the region, with over 130 miles (209 km) of water trails. Canoe and kayak rentals and outfitters can be found nearby.A short walk from the campground leads to a popular swimming area on the Jacks Fork River, a crystal clear and spring fed waterway that's cool and refreshing on a hot summer day. Several interpretive trails with educational exhibits meander nearby. Other hiking trails include the Alley Overlook Trail, Chubb Hollow Trail, Ozark Trail, Cave Spring Trail and Big Springs Trail.
Known for its caves, springs, sinkholes and losing streams, the Ozark National Scenic Riverways has over 300 identified caves within its boundaries. They range in size from a rock overhang to almost seven miles of identified passages. Eight caves, including an open sinkhole, have been designated as outstanding natural features. The Ozark forest is mostly White oak and Shortleaf pine, Missouri's only native pine species. Along the rivers, Sycamore, Cottonwood, River birch and maples are common. Redbud and Dogwood are abundant, putting on a spectacular show during most spring months.
This location is unstaffed. To speak with our main office for general information, please call: (573) 323-4236.
Historic and picturesque Alley Mill and the scenic Alley Spring are nearby. The mill is open daily in the summer and rangers offer tours upon request. Pretty Round Spring is close to the campground as well.
$30 / night
Pinewoods Lake Recreation Area sits next to Pinewoods Lake in southeastern Missouri. It is an ideal location to enjoy lake fishing and scenic trails.
The lake is located on the southeastern quadrant of the Mark Twain National Forest. The area is densely wooded.
A 1.3-mile walking trail surrounds the lake. Most of the trail has a concrete surface and is accessible. The entire trail is relatively flat, with no difficult sections. Circling the 32-acre lake, the trail provides views of the lake, songbirds and wildlife, and an abundance of wildflowers.
The lake offers a floating fishing pier and a concrete boat ramp. Anglers can enjoy fishing for bass, sunfish and catfish.
The day-use picnic shelter can accommodate up to 75 people. It is equipped with tables and large grills. Accessible vault toilets are provided. Trash collection service is not available; visitors must carry out all garbage.
Ellsinore is the closest city to the campground, just 3 miles away, with a few dining options, a grocery store and fuel station.
$15 - $20 / night
Dispersed Camping
In the rolling, forested landscape of Round Spring, two of America's most beautiful spring-fed rivers combine to make up the Ozark National Scenic Riverways. As the first national park area to protect a wild river system, visitors have plenty of scenic water activities to enjoy as well as hiking, horseback riding and wildlife viewing.
The crystal clear Current River flows past the campground, offering excellent canoeing, tubing, swimming and fishing. Over 130 miles (209 km) of waterways exist within the park. Canoe and kayak rentals and outfitters can be found nearby. Several miles of hiking and horseback riding trails crisscross the region, including the Alley Overlook Trail, Chubb Hollow Trail, Ozark Trail, Cave Spring Trail and Big Springs Trail.
The crystal clear Current River flows past the campground, offering excellent canoeing, tubing, swimming and fishing. Over 130 miles (209 km) of waterways exist within the park. Canoe and kayak rentals and outfitters can be found nearby. Several miles of hiking and horseback riding trails crisscross the region, including the Alley Overlook Trail, Chubb Hollow Trail, Ozark Trail, Cave Spring Trail and Big Springs Trail.
The Ozark National Scenic Riverways is known for its caves, springs, sinkholes and losing streams, and features over 300 identified Caves/Kart Systems within its boundaries. The caves range in size from a rock overhang to almost seven miles of identified passages. Eight caves, including an open sinkhole, have been designated as outstanding natural features. The Ozark forest is mostly White oak and Shortleaf pine, Missouri's only native pine species. Along the rivers, Sycamore, Cottonwood, River birch and maples are common. Redbud and Dogwood are also abundant, putting on a spectacular show during most spring months.
This location is unstaffed. To speak with our main office for general information, please call: (573) 323-4236.
Scenic Round Spring Cave is nearby, with ranger-guided tours offered daily during summer months. Historic and picturesque Alley Mill and Alley Spring are also nearby. The mill is open daily in the summer and rangers offer tours upon request.
$33 / night
Campground Camping Recreation areas with activity Campground Camping:
Deer Leap Recreation Area
Float Camp Recreation Area
Watercress Recreation AreaDeer Leap Recreation Area
This campground has 7 sites. Amenities include: drinking water, vault toilet, picnic tables, fire rings and lantern posts. Semi-private sites, most sites have spacing and vegetation between them. All sites are within walking distance of the river.
Float Camp Recreation Area
This is a large, open campground with little privacy screening between the 20 campsites. While there's not much solitude, but you'll enjoy level, roomy campsites and have a good opportunity to socialize with adjacent campers. Trash cans or dumpsters and vault toilets are centrally located. No sewage disposal is available.
Watercress Recreation Area
Watercress Campground has 17 sites and lies on the banks one of the forest’s greatest treasures; the Current River. Floats on the river provide views of southeastern Missouri that otherwise can't be seen. The area is home to a variety of birds and wildlife and recreation opportunities are plentiful in the surrounding area.
In the rolling, forested landscape of Big Spring, two of America's most beautiful spring-fed rivers combine to make up the Ozark National Scenic Riverways. As the first national park area to protect a wild river system, visitors have plenty of scenic water activities to enjoy as well as hiking, horseback riding and wildlife viewing.
The Current River flows past the campground, offering excellent canoeing, tubing, swimming and fishing. Over 130 miles (209 km) of waterways exist within the park. Canoe and kayak rentals and outfitters can be found nearby. Several miles of hiking and horseback riding trails crisscross the region, include the Alley Overlook Trail, Chubb Hollow Trail, Ozark Trail, Cave Spring Trail and Big Springs Trail.
The Current River flows past the campground, offering excellent canoeing, tubing, swimming and fishing. Over 130 miles (209 km) of waterways exist within the park. Canoe and kayak rentals and outfitters can be found nearby. Several miles of hiking and horseback riding trails crisscross the region, include the Alley Overlook Trail, Chubb Hollow Trail, Ozark Trail, Cave Spring Trail and Big Springs Trail.
The Ozark National Scenic Riverways is known for its caves, springs, sinkholes and losing streams, and features over 300 identified caves within its boundaries. The caves range in size from a rock overhang to almost seven miles of identified passages. Eight caves, including an open sinkhole, have been designated as outstanding natural features. The Ozark forest is mostly White oak and Shortleaf pine, Missouri's only native pine species. Along the rivers, Sycamore, Cottonwood, River birch and maples are common. Redbud and dogwoods are also abundant, putting on a spectacular show during most spring months.
Scenic Big Spring is the largest freshwater spring in North America and produces an outflow of 280 million gallons a day. Round Spring Cave is nearby, with ranger-guided tours offered daily during summer months. Historic and picturesque Alley Mill and Alley Spring are also nearby. The mill is open daily in the summer and ranger-guided tours are available upon request.
This location is unstaffed. To speak with our main office for general information, please call: (573) 323-4236.
$30 / night
Sam A. Baker State Park Campground, nestled near Patterson, MO, is a gem for campers of all stripes. Open year-round, this spot offers a mix of tent, RV, cabin, and even glamping accommodations. The campground is known for its serene environment and well-maintained facilities.
One of the standout features is the slow, shallow water areas perfect for young kids, while deeper spots provide a refreshing dip for older kids and adults. The on-site store is a hit, offering surprisingly good food—those loaded nachos are a must-try! Plus, if you forget your bikes, no worries—you can rent them right there.
Campground 2, particularly the gravel side, is a favorite for its quiet ambiance and proximity to the nature center. The park is also pet-friendly, so feel free to bring your furry friends along.
Visitors have praised the clean bathrooms and well-marked roads. The park's natural beauty, with its lush greenery and scenic views, adds to the overall charm. Wildlife sightings, like deer wandering through campsites, add a touch of magic to your stay.
Whether you're here for a quick overnight stop or a longer stay, Sam A. Baker State Park Campground offers a delightful mix of nature, convenience, and family-friendly fun.
The park features a primitive group/special-use camping area with a fire ring and restroom facilities. Call the park for information on how to reserve this area.
Welcome to Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park, nestled near Lesterville, MO. This place is a camper's paradise, offering year-round access and a solid 4.76-star rating from visitors. The campground is known for its spacious and comfortable sites, with some areas providing excellent privacy. Loop 3 and the cabins have open shower houses until April, making late winter camping a breeze.
The park is big-rig friendly and offers electric and water hookups, making it a great spot for RVs. Pets are welcome, and you can even enjoy a cold one since alcohol is allowed. The general store on-site has all the essentials, and there's firewood available for those cozy campfires.
One of the standout features here is the proximity to the Shut-Ins, a natural water park of sorts with rock formations and clear, flowing water. You can walk or bike the paved path to get there, or take a short drive. The Scour Trail is another nearby attraction that's worth checking out.
Visitors have praised the cleanliness of the campground, from the restrooms to the campsites. The river can get busy, especially on weekends, but it's a fantastic spot to cool off. The North Day Use area is a hidden gem for a peaceful picnic by the river.
Whether you're tent camping, bringing an RV, or staying in a cabin, Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park has got you covered. The park's natural beauty, combined with its well-maintained facilities, makes it a top choice for a memorable camping experience.
$11 - $32 / night
The rolling, forested landscape around Alley Spring is where two of America's most beautiful spring-fed rivers combine to make up the Ozark National Scenic Riverways. As the first national park area to protect a wild river system, visitors are able to enjoy various water activities as well as hiking, horseback riding and wildlife viewing.
Canoeing, tubing, swimming and fishing are popular activities on the vast waterways in the region, with over 130 miles (209 km) of water trails. Canoe and kayak rentals and outfitters can be found nearby.A short walk from the campground leads to a popular swimming area on the Jacks Fork River, a crystal clear and spring fed waterway that's cool and refreshing on a hot summer day. Several interpretive trails with educational exhibits meander nearby. Other hiking trails include the Alley Overlook Trail, Chubb Hollow Trail, Ozark Trail, Cave Spring Trail and Big Springs Trail.
Canoeing, tubing, swimming and fishing are popular activities on the vast waterways in the region, with over 130 miles (209 km) of water trails. Canoe and kayak rentals and outfitters can be found nearby.A short walk from the campground leads to a popular swimming area on the Jacks Fork River, a crystal clear and spring fed waterway that's cool and refreshing on a hot summer day. Several interpretive trails with educational exhibits meander nearby. Other hiking trails include the Alley Overlook Trail, Chubb Hollow Trail, Ozark Trail, Cave Spring Trail and Big Springs Trail.
Known for its caves, springs, sinkholes and losing streams, the Ozark National Scenic Riverways has over 300 identified caves within its boundaries. They range in size from a rock overhang to almost seven miles of identified passages. Eight caves, including an open sinkhole, have been designated as outstanding natural features. The Ozark forest is mostly White oak and Shortleaf pine, Missouri's only native pine species. Along the rivers, Sycamore, Cottonwood, River birch and maples are common. Redbud and Dogwood are abundant, putting on a spectacular show during most spring months.
This location is unstaffed. To speak with our main office for general information, please call: (573) 323-4236.
Historic and picturesque Alley Mill and the scenic Alley Spring are nearby. The mill is open daily in the summer and rangers offer tours upon request. Pretty Round Spring is close to the campground as well.
$30 / night
Pinewoods Lake Recreation Area sits next to Pinewoods Lake in southeastern Missouri. It is an ideal location to enjoy lake fishing and scenic trails.
The lake is located on the southeastern quadrant of the Mark Twain National Forest. The area is densely wooded.
A 1.3-mile walking trail surrounds the lake. Most of the trail has a concrete surface and is accessible. The entire trail is relatively flat, with no difficult sections. Circling the 32-acre lake, the trail provides views of the lake, songbirds and wildlife, and an abundance of wildflowers.
The lake offers a floating fishing pier and a concrete boat ramp. Anglers can enjoy fishing for bass, sunfish and catfish.
The day-use picnic shelter can accommodate up to 75 people. It is equipped with tables and large grills. Accessible vault toilets are provided. Trash collection service is not available; visitors must carry out all garbage.
Ellsinore is the closest city to the campground, just 3 miles away, with a few dining options, a grocery store and fuel station.
$15 - $20 / night
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Van Buren, MO?
According to TheDyrt.com, Van Buren, MO offers a wide range of camping options, with 140 campgrounds and RV parks near Van Buren, MO and 16 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Van Buren, MO?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Van Buren, MO is Big Spring Campground — Ozark National Scenic Riverway with a 4.4-star rating from 23 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Van Buren, MO?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 16 free dispersed camping spots near Van Buren, MO.
What parks are near Van Buren, MO?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 10 parks near Van Buren, MO that allow camping, notably Ozark National Scenic Riverways and Mark Twain National Forest.
