Camping sites near Ellsinore, Missouri cluster around the Mark Twain National Forest and Black River watershed at elevations ranging from 400-600 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-95°F with high humidity, while spring brings frequent rain events that can impact water levels. Winter camping remains available at most locations but with reduced services and overnight temperatures that can drop below freezing.
What to do
Kayaking the Current River: The Current River offers excellent paddling opportunities with water moving at approximately 3-3.5 mph. "The Current River was fantastic, as it always is. Multiple cold springs feed into this normally clear river," notes a visitor to Current River Recreation Area. Water activities remain the primary draw for most campers in the region.
Hiking trails: Sam A. Baker State Park offers a network of trails through Ozark terrain. "We spent time walking around the park, relaxing and just talking," reports one camper. The park combines riverfront access with forest exploration opportunities throughout its extensive grounds.
Stargazing opportunities: Sites at Pinewoods Lake provide excellent night sky viewing due to minimal light pollution. "The view of the stars is absolutely gorgeous. Saw a meteor during our stay," shares a visitor to Pinewoods Lake Rec Area. Most campsites in the area have minimal tree cover directly overhead while maintaining shade during daylight hours.
What campers like
Riverfront swimming access: The Ozark Riverfront Campground provides direct river entry points. "Right off the Current River, walking distant to downtown Van Buren. This campground coordinates pickups for if you want to tube the river with one of the local companies," notes a camper who stayed at Ozark Riverfront Campground.
Spacious, well-maintained sites: Most campgrounds in the region feature level sites with standard amenities. "Sites are well spaced out and most are level. It's been almost empty every time we have been there. Very pretty in the fall with the colors along the lake," reports a Pinewoods Lake visitor.
Affordable camping options: River Road Park offers quality camping at reasonable rates. "Electric was available and water was within 50 ft or so. Vault style toilet house a short walk away. R spots were spaced out very well," mentions a camper who stayed at River Road Park. Most primitive sites in the area range from $0-15 per night, while developed sites with hookups range from $20-40.
What you should know
Insect preparation required: Ticks and chiggers present significant challenges during warm months. "Chiggers and bugs are an issue here so bring plenty of Off. We stayed 10 nights and we will definitely mark this one down on our list," advises a Pinewoods Lake camper.
Limited cell service: Most campgrounds have minimal or no cell reception. "There is some noise from 60 but it's hardly noticeable. My time here has been quiet except for some drunken yahoos one night," notes a visitor to River Road Park about the environment.
Spring flooding concerns: Water levels can change dramatically after rainfall. "It was a bit flooded in this area over this past weekend, but it is still worth the drive and visit," shares a visitor to Big Spring Campground. River-adjacent sites may become unusable during high water events, particularly in spring.
Tips for camping with families
Clean swimming beaches: Piedmont Park offers designated swimming areas. "The swimming beach was the main attraction for us. The beach has a designated swimming area that boats can't access. Due to the water level the beach had a bit of an incline. The water was a great temperature and the sand was clean," explains a visitor to Piedmont Park.
Kid-friendly hiking options: Big Spring Campground provides accessible trails. "The campground offers 29 electric sites and many more with level pads, picnic tables, lanterns hooks, and fire pits. Loop 200 offers a restroom with flush toilets. Hot showers are less than 10 minute walk. We enjoyed the trail the follows the river right behind the campground," reports a visitor.
Playground access: River Road Park includes dedicated play areas. "There are several play areas for the kids to enjoy!" notes a repeat visitor who held family reunions at the location. Most developed campgrounds in the area include basic recreational facilities for children.
Tips from RVers
Level sites with hookups: Camelot RV Campground provides full-service options close to town. "It is just off of hwy 67 very easy in and out. Full hook ups including cable. Clean and level sites," explains a visitor to Camelot RV Campground. Most developed sites in the area can accommodate RVs up to 35 feet.
Asphalt access roads: Most campgrounds feature paved access even to primitive sites. "Asphalt road through the camping area and Asphalt pulloffs at each site," notes a Pinewoods Lake camper about the infrastructure quality even at dispersed sites.
Potable water locations: While hookups vary, water access points exist at most campgrounds. "There's a 1.3 mile paved trail along the lake and a dock. There is some noise from 60 but it's hardly noticeable," mentions a camper describing the amenities at Pinewoods Lake. Most campgrounds provide central water sources even when individual site hookups aren't available.
