Best Campgrounds near Hartshorn, MO
The Ozark National Scenic Riverway shapes the camping landscape near Hartshorn, Missouri, with multiple riverside campgrounds and backcountry options. Montauk State Park Campground offers developed sites for tents, RVs, and cabins, while dispersed options like Sunklands Conservation Area provide more primitive experiences. The Current River serves as a central feature throughout the region, with campgrounds like Pulltite, Alley Spring, and Round Spring providing direct river access. Most established campgrounds maintain water and electric hookups for RVs, while primitive camping areas focus on backcountry experiences.
Seasonal patterns significantly impact camping conditions in the Ozark region, with most riverway campgrounds operating from mid-April through mid-October. During peak summer weekends, campgrounds fill quickly, especially those with riverside sites. Several campgrounds offer both reservable and first-come sites, though visitors planning summer trips should secure reservations well in advance. Sites like Montauk State Park and Echo Bluff State Park maintain year-round operations with more consistent amenities. Road access varies throughout the region, with some backcountry areas requiring high-clearance vehicles. A camper wrote: "This campground is right on the Current River. You can rent a canoe right here at the store and the people are extremely friendly! Just remember that they only have 20 sites that are first come, but more that you can make reservations for."
Riverside camping opportunities rank consistently high in visitor reviews, particularly sites with direct water access for fishing, swimming, and paddling. The Current River provides exceptional recreational opportunities, with multiple campgrounds serving as put-in or take-out points for canoe and kayak trips. Many reviewers highlight the trout fishing opportunities at Montauk State Park and along the river. Several visitors mentioned appreciating the mix of amenities and nature experiences. According to one visitor: "This is a very popular campground during the 'in-season'. Limited spots that can't be reserved, and many that can. Tent spaces, RV hook-ups and group spots." For those seeking solitude, backcountry options like Sunklands Conservation Area receive praise for their isolation, with a reviewer noting: "We had a great time exploring the outdoors - saw no other people and only heard nature and airplanes."
