Tent camping opportunities near Clearwater Lake, Missouri range from primitive river-access sites to established state park campgrounds. The area sits within the Ozark Mountains at elevations between 500-1,700 feet, with terrain characterized by oak-hickory forests and exposed rhyolite rock formations. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-95°F with high humidity, while spring and fall offer milder conditions with nighttime temperatures that can drop into the 40s.
What to do
Explore springs and historic mills: Turner's Mill offers access to crystal clear springs that form individual pools. "Beautiful secluded area. Small (only 3 or 4 sites). River access and super close to stream/cave/waterfall area. Water from the cave is so fresh and clear! Truly a beautiful area!" according to a camper at Turner's Mill.
Kayak the Eleven Point River: Boze Mill Float Camp provides direct river access for paddlers. "Likely the most beautiful float I've done in MO. The Ozarks are incredible. I'll be back," notes a visitor to Boze Mill Float Camp. The camp sits along a section popular for multi-day float trips.
Visit Missouri's highest point: Just a short hike from the campground, visitors can stand at the highest elevation in the state. "Hike the tallest mountain in MO, not a long hike. Endless green rolling vistas! Also had deer at our tent," describes a camper at Taum Sauk Mountain State Park.
What campers like
Quiet, spacious campsites: The distance between sites at many campgrounds provides privacy rarely found at more developed facilities. "We were the only people in the campground that night, which was a little freaky, but also very peaceful," noted a winter visitor at Taum Sauk Mountain State Park Campground.
Natural tent pads: Several campgrounds feature unique natural surfaces for tent placement. "I like this camp site because you are within the trees the whole time. It is tent camping only. Where we camped, the ground was covered in moss. That made for very soft sleeping, except for the few large rocks spread over the area," explains a group leader who camped at Taum Sauk.
River access: Many tent campsites near Clearwater Lake provide direct water access. "I grew up going here and it is great, there is great trout fishing and several real good swing holes the campsites are right beside the river which is really nice," reports a visitor at Turner's Mill.
What you should know
Accessibility challenges: Some campgrounds require specialized vehicles or hiking to access. "I was able to get into this area on foot, but it is surrounded by private property. It is accessible with a 4wd vehicle with decent ground clearance, or on horseback," explains a camper at Roberts Field Backcountry Camping.
Limited facilities: Most tent sites near Clearwater Lake offer minimal amenities. "This is a very remote primitive campsite along the river and down seven and a half miles rough gravel roads. Site has access to the river and pit toilets. No other services are provided," notes a visitor to Jerktail Landing Campground.
Seasonal water availability: Water systems may be shut down during colder months. "We didn't see where the water was but it was supposed to be off for the season anyway so we were prepared," explains a November camper at Taum Sauk Mountain State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Educational farm experiences: Some properties offer unique agricultural activities for children. "We had so much fun playing in the creek learning about as Aztec and their gardening methods. Very adorable, baby goats and baby chicks that were just all over and loving living," shares a visitor to Wanderers End Sanctuary Forest Farm.
Insect preparation: Bring appropriate protection, particularly in warmer months. "I highly suggest this place, but I do suggest lots of bug spray. For some reason, I always get eaten up by mosquitos in this area," warns a camper at Boze Mill Float Camp.
Ground conditions: Rocky terrain can make tent setup challenging in many locations. "Very rocky ground so be careful where you put your tent," advises a camper at Taum Sauk Mountain State Park.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Large RVs aren't suitable for most primitive camping areas near Clearwater Lake. "Probably not a good idea to try to bring large camping units to this site," cautions a visitor to Jerktail Landing Campground about the narrow access roads.
Alternative options: Some tent-focused campgrounds may have nearby RV accommodations. "Loggers Lake, in the Mark Twain National Forest, is about 7 miles west of Bunker, Mo. Spring fed lake, no electric or water campsites," notes a camper at Mark Twain National Forest Loggers Lake Recreation Area, providing context about primitive options.
Weekend planning: Remote sites see increased weekend traffic despite their isolation. "Very quiet and lightly used on weekdays but can get a bit busy on Friday and Saturday nights," notes a visitor to Jerktail Landing about camping patterns.
