Within the Mark Twain National Forest, Markham Springs operates as a Forest Service campground along the Black River near Williamsville. This established facility provides both electric hookup sites and primitive camping options, though recent reviews indicate varying conditions and maintenance levels across different time periods.
The campground spreads across multiple loops, with sites positioned near the Black River for water access. Campers consistently mention the river proximity as a key feature, with some sites offering direct waterfront placement. "We found an absolutely beautiful spot along the Black River, for only $10/night," notes Misty L.. The Black River provides fishing opportunities and serves as the primary recreational draw, with a boat ramp accommodating anglers and paddlers.
Road conditions entering the campground receive mixed feedback from visitors, with some reporting significant potholes that require careful navigation. Cell service appears limited or nonexistent based on multiple camper reports. The facility includes shower buildings in certain loops, vault toilets, and electric hookups at designated sites, though amenity availability may vary by season and maintenance schedules.
For campers exploring alternatives in the region, Pinewoods Lake Rec Area — Mark Twain National Forest offers lake-based recreation about eleven miles west.
Description
Overview
Markham Springs Campground is set on the Black River in a scenic and historic recreation area in the southwestern corner of Missouri's Mark Twain National Forest. The area provides access to multiple trails and recreational opportunities. Markham Springs Recreation Area gets its name from former owner, M. J. Markham, who acquired the property in 1901 and operated a lumber mill at the site until the 1930s. The Fuchs House, a five-bedroom concrete and native stone home, also sits on the property, along with a neighboring mill. At times, it is also available for rent.
Recreation
River and stream fishing are popular activities near the campground. The Black River boasts bass, sunfish, walleye and catfish. Many anglers fish from boats, but others fish from the riverbanks. Canoeing and kayaking is also possible on the river. Various day hikes within the Markham Springs Trail System are accessible from the campground. Eagle Bluff Trail is a 1.5-mile loop along the river, where birding and wildlife viewing are favorite pastimes.
Facilities
The campground offers single and double sites for tent and RV camping. Some rather primitive sites are located in a wooded setting near the river. Electric hookups are provided, as well as tables and campfire rings with grills. Lantern posts are also available. Accessible vault toilets, drinking water, showers and trash collection are provided.
Natural Features
Located adjacent to the Black River, the recreation area contains a small pond that dates back to the 1800s. The area is covered by a dense forest of colorful trees, including ash, elm, maple and poplar.
Nearby Attractions
The small town of Williamsville is just 3 miles from the campground, offering a general store and fuel station.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundMarkham Springs is located in Missouri
Directions
From Poplar Bluff, take Highway 67 north for 14 miles, then drive west on Highway 49 for 9 miles (about 3 miles past the town of Williamsville). Take the first right after crossing the Black River to enter Markham Springs Recreation Area.
Address
Rt 1 Box 144B
Williamsville, MO 63967
Coordinates
36.9733333 N
90.6016667 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 3 usersLast on 3/18/26- VerizonNo Coverage
AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 3/18/26
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 3 usersLast on 3/18/26
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 3/18/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Pull-Through Sites
- 50 Amp Hookups
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 1 hr 32 min from Cape Girardeau, MO
- 1 hr 54 min from Jonesboro, AR
- 2 hrs 8 min from Paducah, KY
- 2 hrs 14 min from St. Louis, MO
