Roaring River State Park campgrounds offer cabin accommodations in the Ozark Mountains near Cassville, Missouri. The park sits at an elevation of approximately 1,000 feet with limestone bluffs surrounding the river valley. Water temperature from the spring remains a consistent 57 degrees year-round, creating ideal conditions for the park's trout hatchery and fishing opportunities.
What to do
Fishing at designated zones: Roaring River State Park divides fishing areas into three zones with varying regulations. "Trout fishing is awesome. Lots of trails and fish hatcheries," notes a visitor to Roaring River State Park Campground.
Hiking trails exploration: Several trails wind through the park with varying difficulty levels. "We spent a weekend in early May in campground 1 backing right up to one of the creeks. The sound of running water alone would have me back... Hikes were overgrown but beautiful. Highly recommend!" shares a camper who stayed at Roaring River.
Visit the fish hatchery: The working trout hatchery allows visitors to observe the fish raising process. "You can walk the holding tanks and feed the trout from baby to ready to be released into the river. There is also a cave you can walk in where you'll find a pool of water that goes for miles underground," explains a visitor from Roaring River State Park.
What campers like
Well-maintained grounds: The campgrounds receive regular maintenance despite occasional challenges. "The staff did an exceptional job of cleaning and maintaining the park, especially after the terrible flood not even a year ago," mentions a visitor at Roaring River State Park Campground.
Multiple camping loops: The park features three distinct camping areas, each with different amenities. "Loop 2 has a brand new restroom/shower house... At site, 20,30, & 50 amp service. No water nor sewer at site, but dump and fill stations are readily available," reports a camper who stayed in loop 2.
Newer cabin options: For those seeking improved accommodations, updated facilities are available. "We stayed here for a quick weekend getaway trip and it was fantastic. All the sites are gravel so when we had a few rain showers it did not cause a muddy mess for our campfire evenings," shares a visitor at Roaring River Hills Campground and Cabins.
What you should know
Connectivity considerations: Cell service varies greatly by provider. "Verizon cell is ok, ATT non existent," notes a camper at Roaring River State Park. Another mentions, "New this year is free wifi, although spotty and very slow during busy hours."
Fishing schedules impact: The park uses sirens to signal fishing times, which can affect the camping experience. "We were turned off by the sirens at the park alerting fishermen you can fish. The campground is okay. Very open and not a lot of shade," advises a visitor at Roaring River.
Reservation requirements: Securing spots requires advance planning, particularly for cabin rentals. "Reservations are highly recommended as this is a trout fishing park and fills up during the summer and on weekends," suggests a visitor at Prairie Creek Campground where similar booking patterns occur.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Multiple recreation options keep children engaged. "Our girls had a blast there! For first timers, this place is great! Quiet, relaxing, and a nice hatchery/hiking area!" shares a family who visited Roaring River State Park Campground.
Swimming alternatives: The cold river water may not appeal to all swimmers. "There are few deep swimming holes in the park although there are plenty of area's to wade and catch crawdads. Several different types of campsites. One area is more shaded and near the pool but not by river," explains a camper at Roaring River.
Cabin selection for groups: When traveling with extended family, consider accommodation layout. Near Cassville, camping cabins vary significantly in configuration. "We brought our grandkids out for a weekend and stayed in one of the larger spaces with a deck and gas grill. They have had a blast. From swimming in the pool to shooting hoops and climbing in the playgrounds they have had plenty to do," describes a visitor at Eureka Springs KOA.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Different loops offer varying amenities and settings. "Loop one is out away from the river tucked in a narrow cannon really cool feeling. Loop two and three are on the river. Loop two has electric and lots of trees. Loop three has unreserved with trees, and reserved basic more in the open and not as crowded," advises an RVer who stayed at Roaring River State Park Campground.
Hookup availability: Electric options exist but with limitations. "No water nor sewer at site, but dump and fill stations are readily available," notes a camper who visited Roaring River State Park. For those requiring full hookups, consider nearby alternatives.
Weather preparation: The region experiences rapid weather changes that can impact camping. "When we went it looked like they were making some major improvements on the sites, which is great. If you're in a tent or in the bike cabins, go for it. It's totally for you guys. For an RV? I wouldn't do it again," shares a visitor at Lake Leatherwood City Park.
