Looking for a rustic and comfortable horse camping experience near Clearwater Lake? Equestrian camping is the best way to experience nature. With our help, you'll find the best Missouri equestrian campsites from scenic to easily accessible.
$11 - $32 / night
The park features a primitive group/special-use camping area with a fire ring and restroom facilities. Call the park for information on how to reserve this area.
$11 - $65 / night
$12 / night
Bluff View Campground on Clearwater Lake greets visitors with excellent camping, fishing, swimming, boating and picnicking opportunities. Local wildlife includes wetland waterfowl, fox, deer, turkey, and geese. Bald eagles nest at Clearwater, and remain in the area year-round.
A trailhead for the Bluff View Nature Trail begins at the campground. This is a wonderful loop trail to look for wildlife among a mix of towering hardwood trees.
The lake, surrounded by the picturesque hills of the Ozarks, is fed by the Black River. Average temperatures range from 33 to 59 degrees Fahrenheit in March, and 65 to 92 degrees in summer.
In the area, campers enjoy visiting traditional drive-in movie theaters, the Sam A. Baker State Park, local golf courses, and the historic Civil War site at Fort Benton.
$50 / night
Three miles from Ellington MO. Trails for miles for ATVs, OHVs, and Horses. Ride to Clearwater Lake Conservation Area for thousands of acres to ride or hike. Also 5 miles from Current River Conservation. area and 12 miles from the Black River for kayaking, canoeing, floating and fishing. Stalls available for your horses or you can tie out. Bring your boat or rent one at Clearwater Lake. They also offer pontoons and jet skies. Blue Springs, Johnson Shut Inns, and Elephant Rock State Park are just a few of the places to go in the area.
$15 - $30 / night
Many people enjoy the solitude and peaceful experience of camping away from large groups of people. Dispersed camping is the term used for free camping anywhere in the National Forest OUTSIDE of a designated campground. Dispersed camping means there are no toilets, no structures, no trash cans, no treated water, and no fire grates. There are extra responsibilities required for this type of camp. It's a must to educate yourself before you try it, but we hope the adventure of dispersed camping in the Mark Twain National Forest calls to you! Picking a Campsite If you are going to an area where others have camped, pick a site that's been used before. If there is no existing campsite, then follow these Leave No Trace guidelines: Camp on bare soil if possible, to avoid damaging or killing plants and grass. Camp 100 feet away from any water source - plants near water and water sources are fragile. Camp 100 feet away from any administrative site (Trails, Recreational Areas and/or Building). Campfires Many wildfires are caused by human activity, including escaped fires from dispersed campers. Campfires are allowed UNLESS there are fire restrictions in effect-know before you go! Use camp stoves when possible Use existing fire rings if they exist; NEVER LEAVE A FIRE UNATTENDED. When ashes are COLD and DEAD OUT, scatter outside of the campsite before you leave. If you don't bring wood, collect only dead/downed wood. Please never cut any live trees.
In the rolling, forested landscape of Two Rivers, two of America's most beautiful spring-fed rivers combine to make up the Ozark National Scenic Riverways.As the first national park area to protect a wild river system, visitors have plenty of scenic water activities to enjoy as well as hiking, horseback riding and wildlife viewing.
The crystal clear Current River flows past the campground, offering excellent canoeing, tubing, swimming, and fishing. Jacks Fork meets the Current River nearby. Over 130 miles (209 km) of waterways exist within the park. Find canoe and kayak rentals through our list of Riverways Outfitters on the park website. Several miles of hiking and horseback riding trails crisscross the region, including the Alley Overlook Trail, Chubb Hollow Trail, Ozark Trail, Cave Spring Trail, and Big Springs Trail.
Known for its caves, springs, sinkholes and losing streams, the Ozark National Scenic Riverways has over 300 identified Caves/Karst systems within its boundaries. The caves range in size from a rock overhang to almost seven miles of identified passages. Eight caves, including an open sinkhole, have been designated as outstanding natural features. The Ozark forest is mostly white oak and Shortleaf pine, Missouri's only native pine species. Along the rivers, Sycamore, Cottonwood, River birch and maples are common. Redbud and Dogwood are also abundant, putting on a spectacular show during most spring months.
Historic and picturesque Alley Mill and scenic Alley Spring are nearby. The mill is open daily in the summer and rangers offer tours upon request. Round Spring and Round Spring Cave are nearby as well, with ranger-guided tours offered daily during summer months.
$20 / night
Legend
General: Very large state park with six separate loops/areas:
• Loop 1: 10 Equestrian sites with water and electric (50 amp)
• Loop 2: 20 FHU sites (50 amp)
• Loop 3: 21 Sites with electric only (50 amp)
• Loop 4: 14 sites with no hookups
• Loop 5: 14 walk-in sites plus three special use sites
• Six cabins
Site Quality: We stayed in Loop 3. Each site was very generous in size and reasonably distanced from each other. Most had foliage separating them. All sites looked to be level, and the camper pads were either all concrete or concrete/macadam and in very good shape. A large wooden picnic table, lantern/garbage hook, and fire pit complete each site.
Bath/Shower House: The one closest to our site (and I’m assuming others are the same) had three toilet/sink combos and one family restroom/shower. On the other side of the building were three shower rooms. While they were clean, the floors were concrete, and the walls cinderblock and there was a bit of a musty odor.
Activities/Amenities: We were there during the week in May and the visitor center and both stores (one in the campground and one by the Shut-Ins) were only open on the weekends. There was a laundry room with very reasonably priced machines ($1 each for the washer and dryer), a playground, and an amphitheater (which also was not in use when we were there). There is a gravel path that bisects each of the loops providing a nice way to walk/run throughout the campground. The signage in the park is good so even though no one was at the check-in station, it was easy to find our site and other facilities. The big draw for this park is the shut-ins (narrow constriction or gorge in a stream) where people can swim/slide from one to the other via small waterfalls into pools of water. We did see a few hearty souls in the water when we were there, and I can only imagine what it would be like on a hot summer weekend!
We had almost the entire Loop 3 to ourselves, so it was a very quiet stay for us (except for the cicadas)!.
Legend
I’ve been coming to the Current River area for over 60 years, before the National Scenic Riverways, when Round Springs, Alley Springs, Big Springs, and Montauk were all state parks. They were great places for camping, swimming in the Current River, and canoeing. This new State Park at Echo Bluff is everything I would eliminate from a campground. Sites are packed close together, everything is concrete. No privacy, no shade , no natural beauty. A big modern lodge, cabins and townhouses. I made reservations for two weeks expecting a state park experience. Sorely disappointed! We left early. The staff mostly didn’t bother us. But we watched the cop that sat along the road partway down a steep hill almost every day and gave out tickets for exceeding the 20 mph limit. Showers/bathrooms were new, but not centrally located. Probably would not go back.
Traveler
Spent 3 nights here and the area is beautiful! The mill and springs are soothing and crystal clear. The river is shallow enough to wade across and cool off in. Great spot if you are in the area. A few people on the river fishing and kayaking but no other campers that we saw while there.
Traveler
Sam a Baker is a beautiful destination for any family. There is plenty to do from hiking to horseback riding. There are multi camp sites that can be easily reserved online. The Saint Francis River and the Big Creek meet in the park. The big creek is spring feed and ice cold. The Saint Francis is wild and is considered white water during the rainy season. There are plenty of amenities in the park for the novice camper. From the camp store to the shower house. SAM A BAKER has you covered
Guide
We spent a one night get-away at Hazel Creek with our 30 foot travel trailer. The gravel road into the campground was no problem for a pickup with a trailer. It would be fine for a passenger car, too.
The campsites are large. Several back up to the creek, which is shallow and pretty. The rest are scattered through the wooded campground. Come for the scenery and the hiking. You won't be disappointed.
There are no amenities other than fire rings, picnic tables, and food posts. There is no cell phone coverage. Follow the USFS directions, not Google Maps. That will put you on good paved roads.
TravelerLove tent camping! Secluded and shaded. I want a few years back and it was lovely can’t wait to see if there have been updates!
TravelerThe campground was big and comfortable. We wanted to stay close to the open shower houses since only those in loop 3 and the cabins were open until April. Stayed in loop 2, which was still close enough to cabins shower house. Our site was right at the beginning of the loop and was very level and offered privacy since no one was to our right. No problem with cell service for 5G, we were able to stream music and apps. Anything under 5G was in SOS mode. No antennae TV available, either. The shut-ins were right down the road or you could walk or bike the paved path all the way there. The Scour Trail was also close and really neat to see.
TravelerEcho Bluff State Park is nestled in the heart of Missouri's Ozarks. This natural haven offers a perfect retreat for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. The park boasts a stunning blend of scenic beauty, recreational activities, and comfortable amenities.
The first thing that strikes you about Echo Bluff State Park is its breathtaking natural beauty. The towering bluffs, dense forests, and the pristine Sinking Creek that meanders through the park create a picturesque landscape that's a joy to explore. Hiking trails like the Signal Hill Trail and Current River Trail offer hikers stunning vistas and the chance to encounter local wildlife.
For those looking to relax, the park offers a range of options. The modern campground facilities are well-maintained and provide all the comforts of home, while the cozy cabins offer a rustic yet comfortable escape. The Echo Bluff Lodge is a standout feature, offering a beautiful setting for meals and relaxation with its panoramic views of the park.
One of the highlights of Echo Bluff State Park is its accessibility to the Current River. Canoeing, kayaking, and fishing are popular activities, and the park provides easy access to the river. It's also a designated Missouri Trout Park, making it a paradise for anglers.
In conclusion, Echo Bluff State Park is a haven for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful getaway. Its natural beauty, outdoor activities, and comfortable accommodations make it a must-visit destination in Missouri. Whether you're an avid hiker, a water sports enthusiast, or simply looking for a tranquil escape, Echo Bluff has something to offer everyone.
TravelerThis site was probably my favorite one in Missouri so far. Has a few sites that are great for groups. Then a few sites that are more private for solo/family camps. Fire pit/lantern hooks/tables at the sites. No cell service for both my AT&T and Verizon phones. No restrooms. Only negative I could say about the site would be the other campers that have stayed before me. There was trash I had to police up left by other campers. The fire ring was still hot with a burning log. Bring a shovel if you’re going to camp here and want to have a fire. The fire rings were full with ash. Will have to clean out the rings to have a safe fire. Don’t think they are maintained that well.
Traveler
My girlfriend and I were going to backpack camp at St Joe. We learned that the dispersed campsites had been dismantled. That's a real bummer.
ScoutFirst, the park hosts were so friendly, helpful and hard working. They kept everything spotless! Bathrooms and showers were a 10. Grounds were a 10. Location and surroundings were gorgeous. Sites were spacious and there’s not a “bad” site in the whole park. It was Peaceful and quiet at night. We walked through the walk in tent camping area and it was amazing. Sites were big, private and spread out through the woods with wooden platforms. Path through the area was gravel and very well maintained. The Betty Lea Lodge was close and had an awesome store and gift shop. We will definitely be back!
ScoutGreat place to stay. Easy to get checked in staff is super helpful. Quiet campground not a lot of loud music and people. Other campers are super friendly and nice. Bluffs at at the lodge are amazing to see. Will definitely be coming back!!
ScoutWe have been coming here for years, there is something for everyone here! The water is slow and shallow enough in tons of places for littles and deep and cold enough for the older kids and adults to cool off too. The store is adorable, the food is surprisingly really good (I’m craving those loaded nachos!), and when you’re absent-minded like me and forget the bikes you can rent them there 😁 We like Campground 2 on the gravel side (to the left when you pull in) because it’s nice and quiet and close to the nature center. You really can’t go wrong with any of the sites!
Scout
We have stayed here four or five times now, so clean and the people working are friendly. We have stayed other places and this is by far the most clean and maintained. Highly recommend.
GuideWe arrived at 9:30 AM and headed for the North Day Use parking lot. We were the second or third car there. We did not plan to see the shut-ins but instead put our chairs in the river via the access trails by the North Day Use side. We were able to choose any picnic table and setup our future lunch spot. I don't think but one other table was used the rest of the day, because most people that parked here walked to the shut-ins. The early afternoon was very peaceful and we were the only people in that section of the river. By mid afternoon the parking lot was full and there were then several small groups of families in the section by us, all very polite and friendly. Don't know, but imagine the shut-ins were busy with people due to seeing all the cars drive in that direction. We left by 3:30 and the parking lot was starting to empty out. Decent vault toilet in this section, if you don't look in it, and flush toilets by the Black River Center.
GuideI took the day off on Friday so we could have a full weekend of camping. We originally planned to go to Buffalo River in Arkansas, but there was a lot of rain in the area so we decided to check out Echo Bluff State Park instead.
I’m glad we did! It was beautiful and our campsite 🏕️ was perfect. There was a wooden platform that kept us drier than we might have been when it rained Saturday night and some water got in a few of the seams of our tent 😅
We tried to catch some fish in Sinkin’ Creek Friday and Saturday but no luck. The cool water felt wonderful both days but chasing away the copperheads 🐍 Saturday that were likely scaring away the fish 🐟 was so not fun 😂 neither was finding a tick on my arm but we found it soon enough to get it off without issue. We also successfully avoided all the poison ivy 🌱
Bf made some delicious steaks 🥩(as always 🤤) hot dogs 🌭, sausages and bacon 🥓
I don’t know where we’ll go next but I know it will be just as fun! And despite everything, we plan to return here at some point soon!!!
Also there is WiFi in the rv area and at the lodge. Otherwise absolutely no service for ATT or Verizon and I would imagine several others
GuideThis place has what you need for a good camping trip. The general store has the essentials, the campground is clean, sites are decently spaced with enough privacy. Thumbs up.
Guide
Shelly seemed like a very nice person via text. She just wasn't there when we arrived, and we had a hard time determining property boundaries, tent site locations, etc. on our own. Unfortunately, the tent site we did find was pretty washed out, and we ended up leaving and camping elsewhere. If you have an RV/trailer, ATV's, etc. this place is probably a hoot. Best of luck.
Scout
This place is a gem. Family operated and located in the Ozark Mountains with beautiful scenery nearby to explore.
Guide
If you want to see the wild horses of Shannon County, this is the place to stay. Right on the Jack's Fork, so beautiful. New bathrooms, but everything else is primitive. Equestrian sites down the road in both directions. $10 a night!
Guide
$10 per night, firewood, ice, and more amenities on site. The owner is so nice. His dog Lil' Dan also slept with me. There is a horse next to the camp sites and it's just so beautiful. Float launches from the campground, so convenient. Close to Grand Gulf, Greer Spring, Mammoth Spring, and right on beautiful highway 19. I will be back soon!
Scout
Perfect in the off season. People were wonderful and you are right next to the water. Pickup for float trips is nice too
If the facilities are great it would be five stars. They were not bad, but a little dated and not well set up for camper showers. Clean though.
ScoutCamp host was nice and river was also very nice but campground was really tight. We had camper 5 feet off back window and tents on are side not much space
Scout
K
Travelerthis campground is totally off the beaten path. a great place to relax and unwind. this is also a good place if your new to off grid camping and want to test your gear before you say bye to society. the dogs are friendly and imo a good addition to make the place feel comfortable
TravelerThis was such a clean campground. From the restrooms to the campsite and the river, everything was amazing. The river was a bit busy on Saturday but that’s a given in July. We will definitely be coming back!
GuideLove it. Best way to put it. There is a store and firewood, campsites are semi close but very large and well put together!!
Camping near Clearwater Lake, Missouri, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and fun activities for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or an action-packed adventure, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.
Camping near Clearwater Lake, Missouri, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Clearwater Lake?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Clearwater Lake is Sam A Baker State Park with a 4.5-star rating from 48 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Clearwater Lake?
TheDyrt.com has all 26 equestrian camping locations near Clearwater Lake, with real photos and reviews from campers.
