Southwestern Missouri offers diverse camping options near Goodman, where elevations range from 1,030 to 1,300 feet in the Ozark highlands. Campsites in this region experience significant seasonal temperature variations, with summer highs regularly reaching 90°F and humidity levels exceeding 70%. Local camping areas feature both established facilities and primitive sites within conservation areas, each providing different levels of access to the region's waterways and woodland terrain.
What to do
Kayaking on Elk River: Visitors at Shady Beach Camp & Canoe can enjoy direct river access with minimal planning. "Kayaking/Canoeing is so laid back, there was absolutely nothing to fuss over. Bonus was the float ended right at the camp site," notes Liz C.
Hiking wooded trails: The 11-mile trail system at Gibson Spring Back Country Site accommodates multiple activities. According to Dexter I., "The conservation has 11 miles of multi-use trails to explore (foot, bike, horse)."
Volleyball and social activities: Social campers can find entertainment at River Ranch Resort, where outdoor recreation extends beyond water activities. "They have sand volleyball courts, shuttle to a nearby open air dance club, huge store and restaurant with good pizza and breakfast buffet," explains Jason B.
What campers like
Hot shower facilities: Reliable bathing amenities rate highly among campers at Indian Creek Campground. One visitor observed, "There are shower houses with hot water, I have seen the crews regularly cleaning the bathroom/shower houses however be aware that there are still going to be bugs."
Easy access from highways: Primitive camping areas provide quick roadside access for travelers passing through. A camper at Huckleberry Ridge Conservation Area shared, "Right off highway K! Coordinates looks like it drops you off at the middle of the road but there is a gravel drive. Brings you to a grass lot with a trail off of it."
Convenient camp stores: Many campers appreciate on-site shopping options that eliminate trips to town. A Shady Beach visitor noted, "The convenience shop had everything you could possibly forget at home and plus! They have thought of everything you might need while camping."
What you should know
Weekend registration limitations: City-run facilities have restricted office hours that affect check-in procedures. At Neosho City Campground, a camper explained, "You need to go to city hall to pay your camping fee as the campground does not have a place to self register, so if you plan on staying here you will need to get to city hall before they close for the day, and they are only open from Monday - Friday."
River conditions can require paddling: Some waterways lack consistent current, changing expectations for float trips. At River Ranch Resort, one visitor cautioned, "The river had no current, so you had to paddle. And there were spots that were too shallow and everyone had to get out and u had to drag the raft."
Primitive sites lack facilities: Remote camping areas provide minimal infrastructure. At Gibson Spring, "Your water source is the spring it self, remember to treat the water. This site would be great for someone just getting in to backpacking as it is a short hike to the campsite from the closest trail head (took me only seven minutes). No toilets at the site."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming beach access: Families with children can enjoy dedicated swimming areas at Crystal Springs RV Resort. A recent visitor described it as, "Nice peaceful valley surrounded by springs and walking trails. Close to elk river access."
Weekend activity programming: Some campgrounds offer organized family events. At Indian Creek Campground, a regular visitor mentioned, "On Saturday nights there is a couple from the Corps of Engineers that do free activities for kids and families that we really enjoy."
Playground accessibility: Families camping near state parks can find developed recreation areas. A camper at Twin Bridges noted, "Beautiful sites, busy campground. Great facilities including showers and a playground."
Tips from RVers
Early arrival recommended: RV campers should plan check-in timing carefully. At Neosho City Campground, registration requires "You will need to get to city hall before they close for the day, and they are only open from Monday - Friday."
Site selection for level parking: RV sites vary significantly in terrain quality. At River Ranch Resort, one camper shared, "The rv spots weren't bad to get into. Site was fairly level."
RV-specific camping restrictions: Some campgrounds have shifted away from accommodating tent campers. A visitor to Neosho City Campground observed, "Site use to allow tents, but does not now, most likely due to the fact that their are no restroom facilities at this campground. All the sites come with water and electric hook ups, and their is a RV dump."
