Roaring River State Park campground sits in a wooded valley of the Missouri Ozarks, located in Barry County near Cassville. The area features limestone bluffs rising above cold spring waters that create the river's characteristic sound. Winter temperatures typically range from 20-40°F, while summer months see temperatures between 70-90°F with moderate humidity.
What to do
Trout fishing access: Roaring River State Park offers designated fishing zones with stocking from the onsite hatchery. "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. The other two are all close to water but some lack shade. Fishing is good for all ages and day fishing licenses are available," notes Sandi C. from Roaring River State Park Campground.
Beaver Lake exploration: Visit Dam Site River campground for water activities on Beaver Lake. "We ended up staying our full two weeks here we liked it so much. The access to the river was fantastic. Quiet except for the dam siren for water level warnings before dawn and in the evening," reports Jody D. from Dam Site River - Beaver Lake.
Disc golf course: The Farm Campground features an extensive disc golf layout across its property. "There is an awesome frisbee golf course that seemed to cover the entire property and have more than the usual number of baskets. Also on the property are several art installations and a Jerry Garcia shrine," mentions Annie C. who stayed at The Farm - Campground & Events.
What campers like
Access to wildlife viewing: Lake Leatherwood City Park offers opportunities to observe local animals. "Great birdwatching opportunities, nice hiking trails. Mostly tent camping, some with electric. Sites lower and closer to the lake subject to flooding and can get quite boggy after a lot of rain," says Donna H. from Lake Leatherwood City Park.
Secluded camping spots: Many visitors appreciate the quiet settings available at campgrounds outside the main state park. "The 'Parker Bottoms' area of this campground is amazing. The wife and I keep coming back year after year. There is trout fishing right along the grounds in the White River and the sites are well kept and beautiful. The local deer greet you at breakfast from across the street," writes Stephen R. about Dam Site River.
Family-friendly hatchery tours: The fish hatchery at Roaring River offers educational opportunities. "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," describes Wendy M. about Roaring River State Park Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal park variations: Campground amenities change throughout the year. "Reservations are highly recommended as this is a trout fishing park and fills up during the summer and on weekends. At site, 20,30, & 50 amp service. No water nor sewer at site, but dump and fill stations are readily available. New this year is free wifi, although spotty and very slow during busy hours," explains Gary P. about Roaring River State Park.
Terrain challenges: Some sites present difficulties with leveling or access. "The campground sits on high ground next to the river. You are better off going down the road a bit to get to one of the fishing access points instead. All of those have a nice parking area and a wide trail up and over a berm to get down to the river and skinny trails along the river for fishing," advises Annie C. about Dam Site River.
Warning systems: Several campgrounds use alert systems for water management. "They also have several horns scattered up and down the river to warn of sudden flooding/high water when they have to do a release from the dam upstream. It will startle you for sure!" warns Annie C.
Tips for camping with families
Accessible swimming areas: Multiple campgrounds offer swimming options for children. "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. Electric only and not very level site but loved it! Lots to do and see at the hatchery and play in the river," shares Jennifer O. from Roaring River State Park Campground.
Kid-friendly facilities: Some dog friendly campgrounds near Cassville feature playgrounds and open spaces. "There is a great trail system in this park, so be sure to take a hike or three. Up in the RV area is a nice playground for the kids, and down by the lake is a big boat launch with fun paddle boats and kayaks for rent," notes Annie C. about Lake Leatherwood City Park.
Weather considerations: Plan for appropriate conditions when visiting with children. "We camped at The Pines loop because it was the only section with a functioning bath house in the off season. The river was down a very steep hill, so not accessible from camp, but there's a boat ramp nearby. The restrooms and showers were good and the volunteer caretakers were very helpful and friendly," advises Kent A. from Dam Site River.
Tips from RVers
Campsite surface quality: Roaring River Hills Campground offers practical benefits for RV campers. "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. The owner was super nice and very communicative ensuring we had everything we needed," reports Warren H. from Roaring River Hills Campground and Cabins.
Site selection strategy: For optimal views, consider the layout at pet-friendly campgrounds. "Nice very scenic campground. Hilly with staggered rv slots, so it seems like everyone would have a great view of the lake," notes Jody D. about Lost Bridge North.
Campground accessibility: Some dog friendly campgrounds near Cassville have challenging terrain. "The drive into the park is very beautiful, hilly and curvy! Busy little older park on a lovely lake near Eureka Springs, AR. Great birdwatching opportunities, nice hiking trails. Mostly tent camping, some with electric," shares Donna H. about Lake Leatherwood City Park.