Established Camping
Cobb Ridge
Cobb Ridge, near Ava, Missouri, is a fantastic spot for those looking to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying some modern comforts. This campground is open year-round and offers spacious sites with picnic tables and fire rings, perfect for gathering around the fire after a day of adventure.
The area is well-known for its extensive ATV trails, with nearly 80 miles of interconnected routes ranging from easy to challenging. Visitors have praised the well-maintained facilities, including clean bathrooms and a friendly camp host on duty. As one camper noted, “The campground is well maintained, and the sites are very large and spaced out well.”
Cobb Ridge is nestled within the Mark Twain National Forest, providing a beautiful backdrop for hiking and exploring. The dense forests and scenic landscapes make it a great place for families and groups, with options for both tent camping and RV setups. Some campers have even shared their experiences of watching the campground evolve over the years, highlighting its charm and accessibility.
While the campground is primarily geared towards RVs, there are tent sites tucked away for those seeking a quieter experience. Just keep in mind that the trails can get busy with off-road vehicles, so it’s wise to stay alert while exploring. Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or a longer stay, Cobb Ridge offers a blend of adventure and relaxation that’s hard to beat.
Description
National Forest
Mark Twain National Forest
Overview
Cobb Ridge Campground is adjacent to the Chadwick Riding area, which is popular among and off-road vehicles (dirt bikes; ATVs and side by sides 50 inches or less) enthusiasts. Numerous trails provide nearly 80 miles of interconnecting loops that vary from easy to difficult terrain, winding in and out of deep, forested hollows and down long ridge tops. Family and group camping is available, providing access to Missouri's beautiful Mark Twain National Forest.
Recreation
Visitors to the area mostly come for the plentiful off-road vehicle trails (motorcycle; ATVs and side by sides 50 inches or less). Some trail segments are very rocky, steep, rough, rutted and are technically challenging, while others that don't drain well have been built up with concrete. Hiking on the trails is also permissible but requires caution. If using the trails, you will need a Chadwick riding permit - they are available at our District office; Casey's General Store in Sparta, MO. Cost is $45 for an annual; $7/day for motorcycles, ATVs and side by sides. $3 for mountain bike. You will need make/model and VIN# of vehicle along with rider information. The permit is valid for the machine and cannot be transferred.
Natural Features
The Chadwick area is mostly forested with oak, hickory and pine woods on rocky ridge tops, with a few small open forest glades. Steep ridges break into narrow hollows with scattered surface rock and occasional rock ledges and patches of eastern red cedar.
Nearby Attractions
The campground is 30 miles from Springfield, Branson, Silver Dollar City and Shepherd of the Hills attractions. Lake Taneycomo is 20 miles south of Cobb Ridge.
Location
Cobb Ridge is located in Missouri
Directions
From Chadwick, Missouri, take Highway 125 south about 2 miles, then turn right onto Highway H and continue past Camp Ridge day-use area, turning right onto Lookout Road (the first portion of lookout road is paved - if you get to the gravel you have gone to far) to Cobb Ridge Recreation Area. Fom Forsyth, take H Highway north approximately 14 miles, turn left onto Lookout Road (the first portion of lookout road is paved - if you get to the gravel you have gone too far) to Cobb Ridge Recreation Area. The campground is approximately .5 miles on Lookout Road from H Highway.
Coordinates
36.894675 N
93.099937 W
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Stay Connected
- WiFiAvailable
- VerizonUnknown
- AT&TPoor
- T-MobileGood
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- WiFi
- Drinking Water
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Pull-Through Sites
- 50 Amp Hookups
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 40 min from Springfield
- 1 hr 39 min from Joplin
- 2 hrs 12 min from Fayetteville
- 2 hrs 32 min from Jefferson City
