Bayou Bluff Recreation Area Campground

Great recreational area along the Illinois Bayou. The river is gorgeous and made us with we had brought a few poles! We camped at a pull off spot so there were no amenities bur we made sure to practice NTLB!

The notice that says that it is closed for the season is incorrect.  The upper loop is closed, but not the sites with the stone buildings.  In fact, going to the website, there is a statement that it is free camping right now.  Be sure to check the website, as this is subject to change.  The stone buildings are so nice to set up somewhat out of the weather and have functional fireplaces.  The walk to the river is very easy.  There are no hookups (water or electricity) so it is primitive camping.  There is no cell service on ATT - it showed only "SOS" but the town of Hector is nearby if you need to check your phone in a pinch.  I have a WeBoost and that still would not get a signal.  This site is easily accessed via the paved highway, passenger vehicles can easily access it.  It's quite an unique area to describe.  It's not really well suited for big RV's but wouldn't be impossible.  I went in January so there was only one other camper.  It looked like they were hammock tenting inside one of the structures.  It would be a great base camp for overlanding the Ozarks.

We very much enjoyed our time spent at bayou bluff. It has fire pits, tables, covered sites, trash cans and bathrooms. Not to mention, alot to explore!!!