Mark Twain National Forest covers much of the camping area around Davisville, Missouri, with rugged terrain featuring elevations ranging from 600 to 1,400 feet. Located in the Ozark Highlands, this region experiences hot, humid summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F and mild winters with occasional snowfall. Many campgrounds require visitors to bring their own water supplies due to limited facilities.
What to do
Trail riding access points: At Berryman Trail & Campgrounds, riders can access a 24-mile loop through Mark Twain National Forest. "We backpacked overnight to the Brazil Creek campground and back. Only ones on the trail. Lots of flowers on the trail," notes Patti M. The trailhead includes horse tie-out areas with parking for trailers.
Swimming in natural features: The unique rock formations at Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park create natural water slides and pools. "Our kids loved climbing all over the shut-ins. We have already planned to return in the summer to swim!" shares Ashlee B. The park restricts dogs on the shut-ins trail but allows them in designated camping areas.
Floating trips: Most outfitters operate from April through October with various trip lengths. At Huzzah Valley Resort, "It was awesome to be camped right on the creek and take a half way break at camp for lunch before finishing the float," reports Mallory C. Weekday trips offer a much quieter experience with significantly fewer people on the water.
What campers like
Primitive sites with creek access: Hazel Creek Campground features spacious sites near a clear creek. "The campsites are large. Several back up to the creek, which is shallow and pretty. The rest are scattered through the wooded campground," writes Art Z. This free camping area includes lantern posts, fire rings, and picnic tables without additional amenities.
Well-separated camping areas: Several campgrounds maintain designated quiet and party areas. At Ozark Outdoors-Riverfront Resort, "Huge campground with a family side and a late night side. Lots of updates in the last 15 years," notes Jess Z. The family areas typically enforce noise restrictions after 10 pm while party areas remain active much later.
Multiple activity options: Many campgrounds offer diverse recreation beyond trail riding. "The gravity toilet is well maintained but no access to water. Very few bars so don't expect to get any service," explains Hannah F. about Brazil Creek. Pack enough water for your entire stay, as many primitive campgrounds have no potable water sources.
What you should know
Seasonal crowding patterns: Summer weekends bring large crowds to popular float trip destinations. "We stayed on a Monday-Wednesday in a walk-in spot in loop 5. Every spot was occupied but park was maintained well," reports Becky T. at Johnson's Shut-Ins. Reservations are essential for weekend camping between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
Water availability limitations: Many forest service campgrounds have no drinking water. At Brazil Creek Camping Area, "Water source is creek. Abundant shade. No Verizon service," notes Linda C. Bring all necessary water or filtration equipment when staying at primitive sites.
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies widely throughout the region. "No cell signal, and as the other reviewer has said, have your map to get there, because it's easy if you do. Your phone will not get you there," warns Staci R. Download offline maps before arriving and bring printed directions to remote locations.
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with bathroom facilities: When traveling with children, bathrooms become essential. "Very nice campground with nice showers and clean bathrooms. Camp sites were somewhat close together so hope you like neighbors," advises Erin J. Most state parks maintain shower houses while forest service campgrounds typically offer vault toilets at most.
Look for designated swimming areas: Blue Spring Ranch provides family-friendly river access. "Highly recommend going to the 'Upper Beach'! It's up by the cabins/cottages and you definitely need to drive there. Get there early in the morning to set up your chairs in the river to get a good spot," suggests Caitlin F. Swimming areas with gradual entry points work best for younger children.
Consider walking distance to facilities: Some campgrounds require significant walking. "The cart provided was great to walk our gear down the trail to our site, and there was a flat deck for us to camp on (which was great on our rainy weekend)," shares Shelby B. about Johnson's Shut-Ins walk-in sites. Pack accordingly for the distance between parking and campsites.
Tips from RVers
Check access roads before arrival: Some campgrounds have challenging approach roads. At Hazel Creek, "The gravel road into the campground was no problem for a pickup with a trailer. It would be fine for a passenger car, too," reports Art Z. Call ahead during wet weather as many forest roads become impassable after heavy rain.
Consider site dimensions: RV sites vary significantly in size and layout. At Huzzah Valley, "Great site on the end. Extra space for our two dogs to run around," notes Melony M. Request specific site numbers when making reservations based on your vehicle length and slide-out requirements.
Reserve utilities based on season: Summer heat requires proper cooling. "Big and spacious sites. First come first serve. You can fit multiple tents on one site. Amenities are limited especially during the off season," explains Dave B. about Berryman Trail Campground. Many primitive campgrounds permit generator use during limited daytime hours only.
