Within the Ozark National Scenic Riverways, Alley Spring Campground sits along the Jacks Fork River about five miles from Eminence. This National Park Service facility operates from mid-April through mid-October, offering 260 sites ranging from primitive tent spots to full hookup RV sites accommodating rigs up to 64 feet.
The campground spreads across multiple loops with varying character. Loop 500 provides tree cover near the river, while the 900 loop offers more open terrain with less privacy between sites. Shelly S. notes it's an "excellent area to camp in with mostly private sites," though she recommends avoiding the inner areas for better spacing. Several reviewers mention sites can be quite close together, with some picnic tables less than 20 feet apart.
Access involves narrow, winding hill roads that some describe as rough. The campground sits on a flood plain, and heavy rains can trigger evacuations. Cell service is essentially nonexistent, making weather radios essential according to multiple campers. Recent renovations have upgraded facilities, with reviewers consistently praising the clean bathrooms and hot showers available year-round.
The adjacent Alley Spring and historic mill provide easy walking access for exploration. River activities center on the Jacks Fork, with local outfitters offering pickup service directly from the campground. Swimming holes nearby include the popular "bluff hole" mentioned by visitors. Weekend ranger programs add educational value during peak season.
Reservations are available for some loops, while others operate first-come, first-served. Sites with electricity in the 600 loop tend to fill quickly. For those exploring the broader region, places to camp around Eminence provide additional options within the scenic riverways system. The campground works best for those comfortable with limited connectivity and variable road conditions.
Description
Overview
The rolling, forested landscape around Alley Spring is where 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 are able to enjoy various water activities as well as hiking, horseback riding and wildlife viewing.
Recreation
Canoeing, tubing, swimming and fishing are popular activities on the vast waterways in the region, with over 130 miles (209 km) of water trails. Canoe and kayak rentals and outfitters can be found nearby.A short walk from the campground leads to a popular swimming area on the Jacks Fork River, a crystal clear and spring fed waterway that's cool and refreshing on a hot summer day. Several interpretive trails with educational exhibits meander nearby. Other hiking trails include the Alley Overlook Trail, Chubb Hollow Trail, Ozark Trail, Cave Spring Trail and Big Springs Trail.
Facilities
Open year-round, this campground has flush toilets and shower facilities available April 15 through October 15. Roads and parking spurs are paved. Ranger-led campfire programs are offered in the campground amphitheater during the summer months.
Natural Features
Known for its caves, springs, sinkholes and losing streams, the Ozark National Scenic Riverways has over 300 identified caves within its boundaries. They 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 Dogwood are 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
Historic and picturesque Alley Mill and the scenic Alley Spring are nearby. The mill is open daily in the summer and rangers offer tours upon request. Pretty Round Spring is close to the campground as well.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsAlley Spring Campground is located in Missouri near Eminence
Directions
From the east on US Highway 60, turn north on Missouri Highway 19 in the town of Winona. Continue north 12 miles to the town of Eminence. From Eminence, Alley Spring campground is located five minutes west of State Highway 106. From Mountain View, travel 19 miles east from Mountain View on US Highway 60 and turn north on County Highway E. Go north on E for 10 miles until you reach State Highway 106, then turn west on 106 for two miles. The Alley Spring Campground is on the south side of Highway 106.
Address
PO BOX 490
Van buren, MO 63965
Coordinates
37.14722 N
91.44972 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 5/11/26
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 5/11/26
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
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
- Sanitary Dump
- Sewer Hookups
- Water Hookups
- Pull-Through Sites
- Big Rig Friendly
Contact
General Info
Reservations
Drive Time
- 2 hrs 3 min from Springfield, MO
- 2 hrs 23 min from Cape Girardeau, MO
- 2 hrs 25 min from Jefferson City, MO
- 2 hrs 35 min from Jonesboro, AR















































