Established Camping
Sutton Bluff Recreation Area
Sutton Bluff Recreation Area, near Salem, Missouri, is a fantastic campground that offers a blend of natural beauty and outdoor fun. With spacious sites and easy access to the crystal-clear Black River, it’s a prime location for those looking to unwind and enjoy some water activities.
The campground is known for its clean facilities and friendly atmosphere. Visitors have praised the well-kept bathrooms and the helpful campground host, who provides essentials like ice and firewood. As one camper noted, “The sites are nice and clean,” making it a comfortable place to set up camp.
For adventure seekers, Sutton Bluff is surrounded by scenic trails perfect for hiking and ATV riding. The nearby bluffs provide stunning views and a great backdrop for your camping experience. Plus, the river access is a hit for swimming and relaxing by the water, with some campers highlighting it as a “great river access area.”
While it’s a bit off the beaten path, that just adds to its charm. Just remember to stock up on supplies before you arrive, as the nearest store is a drive away. Whether you’re pitching a tent or parking your RV, Sutton Bluff Recreation Area is a welcoming spot for a memorable outdoor getaway.
Description
National Forest
Mark Twain National Forest
Overview
Roomy campsites surrounded by open lawn and natural shading, cool breezes, abundant songbirds and scenic views all await visitors at the Sutton Bluff Recreation Area. The campground is a popular site for those using the nearby designated Sutton Bluff off-road vehicle trails.
Recreation
A 20 mile off-road vehicle trail can be accessed from the campground. Permits are required for off-road vehicle use in the area. The Karkaghne section of the Ozark Trail, which is popular among backpackers, hikers and mountain bikers, is accessible from a trailhead less than a mile from the campground. The West Fork of Black River provides access to a serene, slow-moving mountain stream and a natural gravel beach. Visitors enjoy wading in the waters, however the current is not strong enough to enable floating the river. Anglers can enjoy a variety of bass and bluegill.
Natural Features
Sutton Bluff is located 13 miles outside Centerville, Missouri, on the Black River. It is nestled among a variety of short-leaf pine trees and shrubs, and a number of campsites sit alongside the West Fork of the Black River.
Nearby Attractions
The small mining town of Centerville is located roughly six miles from the campground.
Location
Sutton Bluff Recreation Area is located in Missouri
Directions
From Centerville, Missouri, travel 3 miles northeast on Highway 21. Take County Road 907 northwest for 7 miles, then turn on County Road 849 and travel south for 3 miles to the campground.
Address
PO BOX 460
Salem, MO 65560
Coordinates
37.4763889 N
91.0069444 W
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Stay Connected
- WiFiAvailable
- VerizonUnknown
- AT&TGood
- T-MobileUnknown
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- 50 Amp Hookups
- Big Rig Friendly
