Established Camping
Big Spring Campground — Ozark National Scenic Riverway
Big Spring Campground, near Van Buren, Missouri, is a fantastic spot for those looking to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying some modern conveniences. The campground is known for its spacious sites and well-kept amenities, making it a comfortable base for your outdoor adventures.
Visitors rave about the stunning Big Spring, which flows an impressive 226 million gallons a day. The area is perfect for hiking, swimming, and kayaking, with trails that lead right to the river. One camper noted, “The campground is beautifully manicured and has spacious sites and many options,” highlighting the well-maintained environment.
You’ll find electric hookups available, along with picnic tables and fire pits for those cozy campfire evenings. While some amenities like showers may not always be operational, the overall experience remains top-notch, as one reviewer mentioned, “I can't wait for the cabins to be remodeled!”
If you’re up for some exploration, the surrounding Ozark National Scenic Riverway offers a wealth of outdoor activities, from fishing to floating down the Current River. With its picturesque scenery and friendly atmosphere, Big Spring Campground is a great choice for a memorable camping experience.
Description
National Park Service
Ozark National Scenic Riverways
Overview
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.
Recreation
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.
Natural Features
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.
Contact Info
This location is unstaffed. To speak with our main office for general information, please call: (573) 323-4236.
Nearby Attractions
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.
Fee Info
Location
Big Spring Campground — Ozark National Scenic Riverway is located in Missouri
Directions
Big Spring Campground is located four miles (6.4 km) south of Van Buren, Missouri. Turn south on Missouri Highway 103 and continue south for four miles (6.4 km) to the Big Spring Unit of the park.
Address
PO BOX 490
Van buren, MO 63965
Coordinates
36.9625 N
90.9830556 W
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Stay Connected
- WiFiGood
- VerizonGood
- AT&TUnknown
- T-MobileGood
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
- Cabins
Features
For Campers
- Market
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Water Hookups
- Pull-Through Sites
- 50 Amp Hookups
- Big Rig Friendly
Contact
General Info
Reservations