Clearwater Lake sits at approximately 500 feet elevation in the foothills of the Ozark Mountains. The 10,000-acre lake features over 100 miles of shoreline with gravel and sandy beaches that maintain consistent water clarity throughout most seasons. Water temperatures range from the high 40s in winter to mid-80s during peak summer months, with camping available at several locations around the lake perimeter.
What to do
Hiking nearby trails: Multiple day hikes branch out from Sam A. Baker State Park Campground, allowing access to backcountry areas. "Super park for great biking, hiking, river access, restaurant, great camp store. This park always has a lot of activties for the campers!" notes Jenny H.
River activities: The Black River offers excellent paddling options within 15 miles of Clearwater Lake. A camper at Twin Rivers Landing explains, "Waters were super clear. They have bathrooms and showers. Att cell service works good here." Float trips range from 2-8 hours depending on route selection.
Wildlife viewing: The forests surrounding Clearwater Lake support diverse animal populations. According to one visitor at Marble Creek Recreation Area, "We were the only ones here on a weekday in the off season and it was fantastic. The campsites were clean, the waterways were clean, and no one bothered us."
What campers like
Direct lake access: Most glamping sites at Clearwater Lake offer water proximity. At Bluff View, Scott M. reports, "Quiet and beautiful campground. Great swimming and fishing. Marina is great and have boat rentals available. We love it there and go back every year."
Clean facilities: Regular maintenance makes facilities comfortable for first-time glampers. "We spent four days at the park with friends during the higher rain and very, high river. The park as usual was yet maintained in almost perfect conditions, staff was very nice," shares John K. from Sam A. Baker State Park.
Spacious sites: Camping areas typically provide adequate separation between sites. A visitor at Marble Creek Rec Area noted, "Most sites are nicely separate by trees and brush, and a few in the front are more open and close together, better for groups."
What you should know
Reservation timing: Book glamping accommodations 3-6 months in advance for summer weekends. A visitor at Otahki Lake Cabins and Campground reported, "We have everything from glamping tents right on the river bluff to 12 fully equipped cabins with hot tubs overlooking the 22 acre lake with a beach and activities."
Weather considerations: Spring camping near Clearwater Lake can involve heavy rainfall. According to one Sam A. Baker camper, "We spent time walking around the park, relaxing and just talking. The only slight below norms was their wifi was very poor and didn't work half the time."
Limited cell service: Coverage varies significantly around the lake. Twin Rivers Landing visitors note that "Att cell service works good here," though other carriers may have reduced signals in more remote glamping locations.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming areas: Designated swim zones offer safer water access for children. A visitor to Marble Creek mentioned, "You can spend the day floating in the river or swimming near the little shut-ins watering hole."
Kid-friendly sites: Choose glamping options with easy creek access. "This spot was perfect for our group of friends bringing children! Site #20 had a perfect path to the water, and a reasonable creek walk up to a swimming hole," shares a reviewer from Marble Creek Recreation Area.
Educational opportunities: Several glamping locations offer ranger-led programs. "My family camps at Sam A Baker every year. It is clean and everyone there is friendly. They have a nice gift shop and some great places to swim," notes Emily J.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Most glamping locations near Clearwater Lake accommodate RVs with advance notice. At Beaver Springs Campground, Phil B. shares, "A really nice smaller privately owned campground that still has all of the perks. Pool, clean bath house, ice, fire wood, etc. Bordered by a spring branch and just a mile from Clearwater lake access."
Accessibility considerations: Larger rigs may find challenges at older campgrounds. According to Paul K. at Webb Creek Park, "Older campground, very tight and some sites are uneven. Does have dump station, showers, boat ramp, playground and a swimming area."
Off-season advantages: Consider glamping at Clearwater Lake during shoulder seasons. A visitor at Marble Creek noted, "The campground is shaped by Marble Creek, from overhead it looks the piece to a puzzle, no matter where you are in the campground any direction takes you to the water."
