The Ozark region surrounding Fremont, Missouri sits at elevations ranging from 500 to 1,400 feet with spring-fed waterways maintaining temperatures between 52-68°F year-round. The area receives approximately 44 inches of rainfall annually, creating ideal conditions for the crystal-clear streams that define the camping experience. Many glamping sites operate seasonally due to occasional flooding along riverside locations.
What to do
River floating excursions: Richard's Canoe Rental & Campground offers shuttle services for kayaking the 11 Point River. "We stayed here to utilize their shuttle services for kayaking the 11 point. The convince of having your own vehicle waiting for you after a long day of floating is worth every dime you pay for it," notes one visitor who appreciated the convenience for multi-day adventures.
Cave exploration: The Round Spring Campground provides access to guided tours of Round Spring Cave from June through October. "Tours of the cave are given daily June through August and cost $5. The lantern tours show an amazing cave with many beautiful formations," explains a camper who visited this National Park Service site.
Visit natural springs: Multiple springs feed the waterways around Timbuktu Campground — Echo Bluff State Park, offering photogenic blue pools where underwater springs bubble up. "The spring is absolutely beautiful! The color is just as vibrant and turquoise in my photo as if I was standing there looking at the spring," remarks one visitor describing nearby Round Spring.
Wildlife observation: Early morning visits to water access points increase chances for spotting wildlife. One camper at Round Spring Campground — Ozark National Scenic Riverway reported, "You may get lucky and see otters on your way to the spring, or some of the wild horses in the area. Go in the early morning to the spring trail to watch the mist roll off the water and enjoy the wildlife."
What campers like
Waterfront camping options: Many glamping sites near Fremont offer direct river access. At Harveys Circle B Campground, campers appreciate the proximity to water: "We stayed in a campsite on the river. The campsites are a little close together but no one was at the one next to us so it did not feel so bad."
Well-maintained facilities: Unlike more rustic camping options, glamping accommodations prioritize comfort. One visitor to Sam A. Baker State Park noted, "My group and I stayed in Campground 1 and we were so pleased with how well-kept our sites were. Even during the last weekend of September, it was hot out, so we were glad there were plenty of trees around."
Convenient amenities: Many glamping sites feature on-site stores and food options. At Pulltite Campground — Ozark National Scenic Riverway, visitors appreciate the amenities: "There's some basic showers (2 locations) and flush toilets (3 locations). Might be a bit of a walk from some of the campsites, but nothing too unreasonable. 2-5 minute walk at most."
Off-season tranquility: Spring and fall visits offer more seclusion at glamping sites. A camper at Fourche Lake Rec Area shared, "Total peace and tranquility will invade your senses and take over your being. At Fourche Lake you will find dispersed camping at its best."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Popular glamping destinations fill quickly during peak seasons. A visitor to Echo Bluff State Park advised, "The only negative is that we have experienced are that you need to reserve your side months in advance because this campground is so popular."
Weather considerations: Spring flooding can impact camping areas. One camper reported, "We spent four days at the park with friends during the higher rain and very, high river. I have never seen the river through the park so high to the top of the banks."
Limited cell service: Many sites have limited connectivity. A visitor to Round Spring Campground noted, "It has zero cell service but you can drive about 2 miles up the road to the state park and connect their WiFi."
Wildlife awareness: Multiple campers report encounters with wildlife at glamping sites. "The raccoons and armadillos can be a bit rowdy and too close for comfort some nights, so secure your food carefully. Also, in recent years, black bear sightings are becoming more frequent," warned one experienced camper at Pulltite Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly glamping options: Montauk State Park Campground receives high marks from families with children. "This campground has perfect amenities. Clean bathrooms and showers. Firewood available for purchase and even WiFi. It was a great place to take our kids," explains one family.
Swimming access: Shallow water entry points provide safe recreation. "Perfect in the off season. People were wonderful and you are right next to the water. 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," reported one visitor to Circle B Campground.
Educational programs: Several sites offer ranger-led activities suitable for children. A visitor to Round Spring noted, "The host was great, did a nice show at the amphitheater about the local area."
Safety considerations: Parents should monitor children near water. "Keep an eye out for copperheads and water moccasins along with black widow spiders," cautioned one experienced camper, emphasizing the importance of wildlife awareness when glamping with children.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: RVers recommend specific locations at Two Rivers Backcountry Camping — Ozark National Scenic Riverway for more privacy. "Would recommend going for sites on the outside of the ring, if possible - these seemed to have more shade and a tad more privacy," advised one RVer who stayed at the campground.
Leveling considerations: Some glamping sites require careful positioning. A visitor to Fourche Lake Recreation Area noted, "Most sites could accommodate a small motorhome or trailer. Fairly level spots."
Utility access: Electric hookup availability varies widely among glamping sites. At Echo Bluff State Park, an RVer reported, "This place is pretty new and they didn't spare any expense. Lodge and campgrounds were great. Camp host at RV park was awesome and helped us a couple times."
Shade availability: Tree cover impacts comfort in summer months. One reviewer of Echo Bluff mentioned, "4 star due to bathrooms left some to be desired. A lot of concrete. The area the campground is located in is spectacular. Worth staying in the area. We, personally, like more of a woodsy feel. This campground felt very sterile. You are not sheltered at all by the forest trees."
