Powder Mill Backcountry Camping, near Ellington, Missouri, is a primitive camping spot that offers a unique experience for those looking to escape into nature. With designated sites along the Current River, it’s a great place for tent and RV camping, though you’ll need to bring your own supplies since amenities are pretty limited.

Visitors often highlight the peacefulness of the area, especially during the week when you might find yourself completely alone. One camper noted, “For a three-night stay, we were the only ones there,” which speaks to the tranquility you can expect. The vault toilet is the only facility available, so be prepared for a back-to-basics experience.

If you’re into fishing or boating, this spot is a prime location with easy access to the river. The nearby Blue Springs Trail offers a chance to explore, though some parts may be a bit overgrown. As one reviewer mentioned, “The trail is also not maintained, with lots of downed large trees and copious ticks,” so keep that in mind if you decide to venture out.

While the campground has faced challenges, including flood damage, it’s still a place where nature is reclaiming its space, which some find charming. Just remember to pack everything you need and enjoy the raw beauty of the Ozark National Scenic Riverway.

Powder Mill Campground is located on the Current River, along Highway 106, approximately 12 miles east of Eminence, MO. ADA Access: The restroom facility is handicapped accessible, but the campsites are not.

Powder Mill Backcountry Camping — Ozark National Scenic Riverway

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Ozark National Scenic Riverways

The Best Camping Near Ozark National Scenic Riverways, Missouri

At this primitive campsite you have easy boat access to the river. The campsite is easy to reach and well kept. Mile-ish hike to Blue Spring

Put in

**Powder Mill** is in the middle-ish of the Ozark Scenic Riverway and one of many places to explore, enjoy, camp at and relax. We traveled through here last July 2016.

A primitive campsite area which is adjacent to the river with boat ramp and trail to a nearby spring. The sand bar across the river was very crowded and noisy when we visited. Generators are permitted, follow safe operation procedures. There are no anemities except what you bring with you and plenty of spring water to enjoy ( don’t drink it ;)

Party area ....and fishing

Unfortunately PowderMill is closed due to the flood damage in 2017\. The limited funding for repairs of the area has caused several sites to be left to the elements and they are slowly being reclaimed by nature...maybe not a horrible thing ;)

There are still several areas to choose from that are currently being rebuilt/reclaimed.

Closed

Found this by accident-the site we originally were going to as dispersed was literally under water from all the recent rain. For a three night stay, we were the only ones there. Except the random cars who visited between midnight and three AM and just hung out.   That was unsettling but nothing happened. A NFS Ranger did circle around once. 

Popular spot on the weekend to launch boats. There is a vault toilet but that is all the amenities offered.   Of the six sites, some are a bit wild, but usable.  We stayed at spot three, which has a great view of, and access to, the Current River.   

The Blue Springs Trail that is located at campground was flooded over about a third of the way in with no safe way around. The trail is also not maintained, with lots of downed large trees and copious ticks. 

Photos of Powder Mill Backcountry Camping — Ozark National Scenic Riverway

Real photos from real campers