Equestrian camping near Pineville, Missouri offers access to the scenic Ozark terrain with elevations ranging from 800 to 1,500 feet. The area experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 85-90°F and winter lows frequently dropping below freezing. Campgrounds in this region typically maintain open status from early April through late October, though some provide year-round access with limited winter amenities.
What to do
Trout fishing access: Roaring River State Park Campground provides dedicated fishing areas with a working trout hatchery. Campers can watch the fish development process from fingerlings to release-ready specimens. "The fish hatchery and play in the river. Hikes were overgrown but beautiful. Highly recommend!" notes Jennifer O.
Swimming opportunities: During summer months, campers can find relief at designated swimming areas when temperatures climb. "Crystal water" is how Faith B. describes Beaver Lake, adding "They had kayakes to rent and jet skies. Fishing is good as well."
Hiking trails: The Ozark region features interconnected trail systems with varying difficulty levels. Big M campground provides convenient access to nearby routes. "It's not too far of a drive from Roaring River which has lots of hiking trails," explains Hayley G., who stayed at Big M.
What campers like
Riverside campsites: Sites positioned along waterways offer both scenic views and direct fishing access. As Jason C. explains about Roaring River State Park Campground: "Loop one is out away from the river tucked in a narrow cannon really cool fealing. Loop two and three are on the river."
Wildlife viewing: The surrounding woodland environment supports diverse wildlife observation opportunities. Faith B. reports from her stay at Beaver Lake Hide A Way: "Also lots of wild life! Owls, lizards, tons of birds, deer, and foxes. I would definitaly come back!"
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathhouses and common areas enhance the camping experience. Regarding Big M, Jeremy C. states: "This is a COE facility. Pads are generally good and pretty level. Sites are spaced out nicely."
What you should know
Campsite selection matters: Different campground loops offer varying levels of privacy, shade coverage, and proximity to water. At Big M, Hayley G. notes: "Our campsite had a lot of privacy on 3 sides and had a small creek running through a ways behind it, downhill. There really wasn't a good level spot for our tent due to where the firepit was placed."
Seasonal operations: Operating schedules vary by location with some facilities limiting amenities outside peak season. Jennifer O. mentions about Beaver Lake Hide A Way: "When we camped here (beginning of March) it was very quiet. It might have been a shoulder season or just opening. Payment was through a drop box and none of the facilities were open."
Connectivity limitations: Cell service and internet access remain inconsistent throughout the region. About Roaring River, Gary P. reports: "New this year is free wifi, although spotty and very slow during busy hours. Verizon cell is ok, ATT non existent."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Several campgrounds offer dedicated facilities for younger visitors. Miles H. shares about Roaring River State Park Campground: "Our girls had a blast there! For first timers, this place is great! Quiet, relaxing, and a nice hatchery/hiking area!"
Swimming areas: Designated swimming zones provide supervised water recreation. According to Sandi C.: "There are few deep swimming holes in the park although their are plenty of area's to wade and catch crawdads."
Playground access: Some campgrounds maintain playground equipment for children. Cathy S. observes about Rivers Edge RV Park: "Great play area for kids. Well kept bathrooms and showers."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Many campsites require adjustment equipment due to terrain variations. David B. notes about Rivers Edge RV Park: "We were on a level, narrow concrete pad; ~half of sites were gravel; no picnic table."
Hookup positioning: Utility placement varies between campsites requiring appropriate equipment. David B. continues: "We had to buy an extra sewer hose to connect to sewer, as it was placed so far toward entrance of the site, rather than toward rear of site where electric and water were appropriately placed."
Pet amenities: Some facilities offer dedicated areas for animal exercise. Lori V. recommends Rivers Edge RV and Stables: "Great views, wonderful neighbors and a really nice dog park! Owners and management are very nice and helpful. Plenty of drive thru lots for big rigs."
