Tent campsites near Ellington, Missouri provide access to some of the most rugged terrain in the Ozark Highlands. The region surrounding Ellington sits at elevations ranging from 600-1,700 feet with numerous spring-fed creeks cutting through the landscape. Primitive camping options in Mark Twain National Forest offer varied terrain with natural obstacles like exposed roots and rocks that require proper site preparation.
What to do
Hiking the Ozark Trail: The Ozark Trail system provides extensive backcountry hiking options near Ottery Creek Primitive Campground. According to a backpacker, "This is one of my favorite campsites on the trail. It is right next to the trailhead and can be accessed by a short hike from the parking lot. There are tall trees with plenty of flat areas that is large and open and could accommodate several large groups."
Explore local caves: The primitive camping area near Peter Cave Hollow Creek provides access to interesting geological features. One camper noted, "The weather in the Ozarks can be unpredictable. We were expecting temperatures in the 50's to 60's and ended up getting snowed on several days. It slowed us down tremendously."
Wildlife observation: Early morning and dusk offer prime wildlife viewing opportunities at most forest camping areas. Deer, turkey, and numerous bird species are common throughout the region. One camper at Taum Sauk Mountain State Park Campground mentioned seeing "deer at our tent" during their stay.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Though primitive, some camping areas maintain basic facilities. At Mark Twain National Forest Loggers Lake Recreation Area, a camper appreciated that "There is a maintained M/F restroom on the site, and a water spigot close to the restroom. All sites have a fire ring and a picnic table. GORGEOUS!"
Solitude and quiet: The remote nature of many Ellington area campsites provides exceptional privacy. A visitor to Jerktail Landing Campground noted it's "Very quiet and lightly used on weekdays but can get a bit busy on Friday and Saturday nights."
Natural springs: The region features numerous natural springs providing clean water sources for prepared campers. At Padfield Branch Primitive Campground, a backpacker advised, "Make sure you bring a water purifier. It is some of the best tasting water I have ever had."
What you should know
Access challenges: Many primitive campgrounds require proper vehicles or hiking to access. At Roberts Field Backcountry Camping, one visitor warned, "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."
Limited amenities: Most primitive sites have few or no facilities. At Peter Cave Hollow Creek, a camper shared practical advice: "Dig your cat hole before you go to sleep and make sure it is at least 100 feet from the water."
Weather variability: The Ozark region experiences significant weather fluctuations, particularly in spring and fall. A camper at Padfield Branch noted finding "some old remnants of what used to be a living quarters for someone who lived in the woods. It has been long abandoned and is falling over but it offers some fun exploring."
Tips for camping with families
Established sites for beginners: Families new to camping should consider more developed camping areas first. At Four Creeks Ranch Campground, a camper advised, "this 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."
River access: Several campgrounds offer safe water play opportunities. At Four Creeks Ranch, one visitor noted, "The outhouses are comfortable and clean, and the river is beautiful. Great place to go hopping and find some cool rocks."
Short hiking options: Look for campgrounds with accessible trails nearby. Tom Sauk Mountain State Park offers "Several hiking trails," and a visitor observed the campground "wasn't crowded" during their visit, making it suitable for families needing space.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Large RVs face significant limitations in the Ellington area. A visitor to Jerktail Landing cautioned it's "down seven and a half miles rough gravel roads" and "Probably not a good idea to try to bring large camping units to this site."
Alternative options: When tent-only areas won't accommodate your RV, consider nearby alternatives. At Tom Sauk Mountain State Park, a visitor noted, "We didn't camp here but drove up the mountain to check out the look out. Took a trip through the campground, tent camping only."
Seasonal availability: Many forest service and primitive camping areas have limited accessibility during winter months. Loggers Lake Recreation Area operates seasonally from "April 1 to October 31," giving RVers a defined window for planning visits.
