Mark Twain National Forest runs through a wide stretch of southern Missouri, and Current River Recreation Area sits along one of its most active waterways, drawing paddlers and drive-in campers to the banks of the Current River outside Doniphan. The US Forest Service manages the site, which includes sewer hookups, showers, toilets, a dump station, and ADA-accessible facilities, making it functional for both tent campers and RV rigs. Rangers make evening rounds to check on campers, which reviewers note adds a layer of oversight that keeps the site well-maintained.
Water access is the central draw here. The Current River moves faster than most Missouri float streams, with cold springs feeding into it and a current running around 3 to 3.5 mph, which suits paddlers comfortable with moving water. Canoe access is direct, and a shuttle service back to the campground is available after float trips. Eagles and deer have been spotted along the river corridor. Sites are close to the water, which reviewers appreciate, though some note the lack of seclusion between spots.
Flooding is a real consideration. Campers consistently advise pitching tents on higher ground when rain is in the forecast, as the river rises quickly. Cell service may be limited in this part of the forest, so downloading maps and float trip information in advance is worth the effort. Nearby options for those building a longer itinerary include Gooseneck/Hawes Backcountry Camping -- Ozark National Scenic Riverway to the north and Float Camp to the southeast. Reservations are available and worth booking ahead for summer weekends.
Description
Campground Camping Recreation areas with activity Campground Camping:
Deer Leap Recreation Area
Float Camp Recreation Area
Watercress Recreation Area
Deer 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.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsCurrent River Recreation Area is located in Missouri near Doniphan
Public CampgroundDirections
See specific recreation areas on the Current River for directions.
Coordinates
36.79000062 N
90.95000036 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Market
- ADA Access
- Picnic Table
- Reservable
- Showers
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Sewer Hookups
Drive Time
- 1 hr 52 min from Jonesboro, AR
- 2 hrs 1 min from Cape Girardeau, MO
- 2 hrs 37 min from Paducah, KY
- 2 hrs 54 min from Memphis, TN
