Tent camping near Greers Ferry Lake offers several primitive options within the Ozark foothills, where elevation ranges between 400-700 feet. The area has a humid subtropical climate with hot summers reaching 90°F and mild winters, creating a year-round camping environment. Most tent sites feature dirt surfaces with minimal artificial lighting, allowing for excellent stargazing conditions during clear nights.
What to do
Water activities along Buffalo River: Primitive camping at Rush Campground provides direct river access for canoeing and swimming. One camper notes it's "the last stop before you enter the wilderness area of the Buffalo River. It was amazing. The only complaint is that at times the river can run somewhat low. This is a great place to go if you are a beginner level for canoeing."
Fishing opportunities: The Illinois Bayou near Bayou Bluff Point of Interest offers riverside fishing spots. A visitor mentioned they "made us with we had brought a few poles" when camping along the river. Campers can fish from the riverbank at various access points without needing a boat.
Hiking nearby trails: Syllamo has multiple trail systems accessible from several trailheads. A reviewer writes, "This is a series of trails with multiple trail heads. Each trail head has a course gravel parking area and a very nice pit toilet. Bring lots of drinking water. Good for both Mountain Biking and hiking, but hikers need to make way for bikers."
What campers like
Stone shelters at Bayou Bluff: The unique CCC-built structures provide partial protection while maintaining an outdoor camping experience. A reviewer describes them as having "functional fireplaces. The walk to the river is very easy." Another adds they "have a large rock fire area" making them practical in various weather conditions.
Quiet camping at Spring Creek: Spring Creek Campground offers a peaceful experience away from crowds. A camper reports, "This primitive campground was perfect for me and my dog. We stayed three nights in October 2020. It's right on a put-in spot on the Buffalo River so there were a couple of buses and shuttles but for the most part it was very quiet."
Natural surroundings at Conway Lake: The dispersed camping at Camp Robinson provides a natural lakeside experience. A camper describes: "The sunset was beautiful. Peaceful and quiet. The birds and frogs sang all evening." Another adds it's a "Great spot to pitch a tent by lake Conway. Isolated but not too far out."
What you should know
Road access considerations: Several campgrounds require travel on gravel or dirt roads. At Spring Creek, one camper warns the "campsite had a rather janky gravel and dirt road leading to it. In the rain, the road would be extremely difficult. Very steep." Allow extra driving time when accessing remote sites.
Vault toilets only: Most tent camping areas feature vault toilets with varying maintenance levels. At Rush Campground, a camper notes they "have one vault toilet, 12 tent sites, and a water spigot." Prepare for basic facilities without running water or showers.
Limited or no phone service: Many camping areas have poor cellular reception. A Spring Creek camper mentioned, "there is no drinking water and I didn't get phone service." Download maps beforehand and bring printed directions.
Recent facility changes: As of October 2021, Bayou Bluff's status changed to a Point of Interest with suspended fees. A visitor reports, "The fees are suspended for camping and day use and is now open all year. Upper loop is closed to camping and will be eliminated completely."
Tips for camping with families
Riverside camping: Shine Eye Gravel Bar offers flexible camping along Buffalo National River. A camper describes: "This is just a gravel bar along The Buffalo National River but it is beautiful! There are no designated campsites, just park in the parking lot, walk down to the river and find a spot."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children might enjoy seeing local wildlife. At Spring Creek Campground, one camper mentioned "a handful of armadillos were scrounging around during the evening," creating potential nature watching experiences for kids.
Site selection for privacy: Choose sites based on family needs. At Bayou Bluff, a camper observed "There are 3 sites total, no reservations. But you never have trouble getting a spot unless it's a holiday weekend." Another noted, "Plenty of privacy on the 2 end sites."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV accommodations: Most tent camping areas near Greers Ferry Lake aren't suitable for larger RVs. A camper at Bayou Bluff notes "It's not really well suited for big RV's but wouldn't be impossible." Consider size limitations when planning.
Level site availability: Finding level areas for vehicle camping varies by location. At Spring Creek, one visitor noted "Not all sites are level; varies from site to site," making advance scouting recommended for van or small RV camping.
Pack in, pack out requirements: No trash services exist at most primitive sites. At Bayou Bluff, "Trash services are managed by visitors as 'pack-it-in, pack-it-out,' and Leave No Trace ethics are posted on information kiosks."
