Dispersed camping spots near Birch Tree, Missouri offer primitive outdoor experiences primarily within the Mark Twain National Forest and along the Ozark National Scenic Riverway. The region features elevations ranging from 600 to 1,400 feet with dense oak-hickory forests providing natural shelters at many sites. Spring temperatures range from 50-75°F with frequent rainfall, while fall brings temperatures between 45-70°F with spectacular foliage displays from mid-October through early November.
What to do
Cave exploration: 5-mile round trip hike. Round Spring Campground features guided cave tours from June through October for $5 per person. A visitor noted, "Tours of the cave are given daily June through August and cost $5. The lantern tours show an amazing cave with many beautiful formations."
River swimming: Access points at multiple sites. Greer Crossing Recreation Area provides designated swimming areas for cooling off during hot summer days. According to one camper, "It has a great boat dock and swimming area and for the brave of heart at times you can jump off the bridge."
Wildlife viewing: Early morning recommended. Round Spring Campground offers opportunities to spot local wildlife along river banks. A camper shared, "We saw a bald eagle and a very curious little otter down by the river. Close proximity to the ozark trail."
Spring hiking: Various trail options. The region contains numerous springs with short hiking trails. One visitor to Greer Spring reported, "Greer spring is right down the road and is well worth the hike!"
What campers like
Clear waters: Perfect for paddling. Alley Spring Campground receives praise for its pristine river access. A reviewer stated, "This place has some amenities, and a very friendly staff that help upkeep the area very well. I really loved how the river was just a short trot away from the tent."
Cave systems: Unique underground explorations. The region features several accessible cave systems that campers appreciate. One visitor commented, "The lantern tours show an amazing cave with many beautiful formations. An outfitter for canoe rentals and shuttle service is located across the road."
Fishing opportunities: Multiple species available. McCormack Lake Recreation Area provides alternative fishing spots away from the rivers. According to a camper, "Great fishing. A really nice place to go hang out."
Natural springs: Vibrant colors year-round. The blue-green springs attract photographers and nature enthusiasts. A visitor noted, "Blue Spring is beautiful and cold! Aside from the over zealous teenagers jumping into the spring it was a nice visit."
What you should know
Road conditions: Prepare for narrow access. Rymers Backcountry Camping has limited access for larger vehicles. A camper warned, "Long beautiful drive in, narrow road would not recommend for motorhome over 20' or any large camper as there is no turn arounds."
Seasonal availability: Check before traveling. Many areas offer free camping during off-season months. One visitor noted about Rymers, "In October after closing can be solo camping... Free in off season."
Bathroom facilities: Limited at primitive sites. Blue Spring Backcountry Camping offers minimal facilities. A camper explained, "This is a primitive camping area and there are a lot of partying people in and around this area plus frequent motorboat traffic. No amenities, many generators."
Water temperature: Springs remain cold year-round. Expect spring water to be much colder than river water. A camper reported, "Blue Spring is beautiful and cold! Aside from the over zealous teenagers jumping into the spring it was a nice visit."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly sites: Reserved campgrounds best. Circle B Campground offers amenities that make family camping more comfortable. A reviewer stated, "Super clean campground. Great swim area. Shower house is basic. We stayed in our RV on a spot with river view."
Riverside activities: Pack water shoes. The rocky river bottoms require proper footwear for comfortable wading. A camper advised, "Take your water shoes, the river is awesome!!"
Wildlife spotting: Early morning walks. Morning hours provide the best opportunities for viewing wildlife. One visitor shared, "We saw a bald eagle and a very curious little otter down by the river."
Supply planning: Limited stores nearby. Most camping areas have minimal or no supplies available. A camper noted, "Has a nicely stocked store when you come in for anything you might have forgotten."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Research carefully. Echo Bluff State Park offers more developed sites suitable for RVs. A camper explained, "This place literally has everything you can want from walk in tent sites to an entire lodge with all the amenities. Campsites are all well manicured and offer everything from basic sites to full RV hook ups."
Dump stations: Limited availability. Only established campgrounds typically offer dump stations. A reviewer noted, "There are only 50 sites, some have electricity. There is a shower and dump station."
Access roads: Size restrictions apply. Many forest roads are unsuitable for larger RVs. According to a camper at Rymers, "Would not recommend for motorhome over 20' or any large camper as there is no turn arounds."
Shade considerations: Varies by campground. McCormack Lake Recreation Area offers more wooded sites than riverfront areas. A visitor shared, "Totally alone with a gorgeous lake."
