Camping near Koshkonong, Missouri concentrates around the Eleven Point and Spring River watersheds with their consistently cool, spring-fed waters. The area sits within the hilly Ozark terrain where narrow access roads wind through forested landscapes and valleys. Water temperatures in these spring-fed rivers remain around 50-55 degrees year-round, creating ideal conditions for trout fishing and summer cooling.
What to do
Trout fishing opportunities: At Spring River Trout Shop/ Mammoth Spring Campground, anglers can catch trout right near their campsite. "Such a beautiful place and great trout fishing, my daughter had her wedding here and we used to have our family reunion here, there is a railroad museum right by the park and a fish hatchery you can check out," notes Glen T.
Visit nearby attractions: Educational options exist just minutes from camping areas. "Spring fed Spring River runs out of the ground at a tad over 50*. Cool in the summer. Great river to float. Trout hatchery is interweb and educational," explains Jason W. about Spring River Trout Shop.
Bridge jumping: More adventurous visitors can find swimming holes with natural features. "Has a big rock pad with a rope swing and a great place to dive in," says Glen T. about Cane Bluff River Access, while at Greer Crossing, "for the brave of heart at times you can jump off the bridge."
Hiking to springs: Make time for short hikes to see natural water sources. "Greer spring is right down the road and is well worth the hike!" shares Clayton R. The Greer Spring trail is approximately 1-mile round trip with moderate difficulty leading to one of Missouri's largest springs.
What campers like
Privacy and seclusion: Cane Bluff River Access offers a truly isolated experience. "It's way back on a little dirt road past some farm land and homes. Only a few campsites, no picnic tables, a fire ring, some heavily shaded spots, a couple sites right on the river. You feel like you are in the wilderness!" writes Elaina M.
Clean facilities: Campers frequently mention facility maintenance as a standout feature. At Greer Crossing, visitors appreciate "Well kept campgrounds, and restrooms!! Best I've seen around!! lots of shade and parking, camp host does an AMAZING JOB!!" as Stephanie U. reports.
Wildlife viewing: Natural pest control comes with the territory. "Great stargazing on the beach and you'll see some bats too! Think they really helped keep the bugs off us all weekend, barely had any problems with those," according to Elaina M. about Cane Bluff.
Convenient shuttle services: For paddlers, logistics matter. At Richard's Canoe Rental & Campground, "The convince of having your own vehicle waiting for you after a long day of floating is worth every dime you pay for it!" explains Stephanie W.
What you should know
Party atmosphere varies by location and timing: Many Islands Campground has distinct sections for different experiences. "It is divided into 2 sides. One is considered more family friendly and the other is the 'party' side," explains Suzsan M. Similarly, Cassie W. notes, "During busy holiday weekend this campground is a PARTY and a half! Its like walking in a fraternity party and is a great time until its not."
River characteristics: The Eleven Point River can be challenging for beginners. "I'd suggest making the trip without kids the first time to judge your skill level. It's a bit fast and deep at the beginning," warns Elisha P. about Richard's Canoe Rental & Campground.
Cash-only policies: Some campgrounds have limited payment options. At Jewells RV Park, "The owner took cash only, didn't register us in any way, and frankly overcharged for what we got," reports Russ G.
Train noise: Consider noise factors when selecting sites. At Spring River Trout Shop, Steve S. commented, "nice place beautiful and friendly people but too many trains lol but worth it for the memories."
Tips for camping with families
Look for designated family areas: Many Islands Campground separates its grounds for different camping styles. "It is divided into 2 sides. One is considered more family friendly and the other is the 'party' side," explains Suzsan M.
Find campgrounds with quiet hours: Riverside Campground and Canoe enforces policies that help families. "Quite time at night which is great if you have kids. We are a family of 5 so this is great. The bath houses are clean and the people are amazing," shares Shanna P.
Educational opportunities: Plan day trips to learn about local ecology. "There is a railroad museum right by the park and a fish hatchery you can check out," Glen T. mentions about Spring River Trout Shop.
Evaluate river difficulty: Not all water activities suit young children. Elisha P. cautions about the Eleven Point River: "I'd suggest making the trip without kids the first time to judge your skill level. It's a bit fast and deep at the beginning."
Tips from RVers
Site layout challenges: At some parks, navigation can be difficult. "The trees are overgrown and the spots are very poorly laid out. We have a 37 foot 5er and had to do some difficult maneuvering to get turned around when we left," warns Russ G. about Jewells RV Park.
Long-term vs. short-term stays: Road Runner RV Park balances different camper needs. "Mostly full-timers but even though they have 18 people on the waiting list for a full time spot still they reserve several pull throughs for short term guests," notes Jerry W.
Utility conditions: Check power and water connections before setup. Charles F. observed at Road Runner RV Park: "Large semi paved spaces (I say semi paved because the concrete pads were crumbling at least in our spot). Good separation between sites with picnic tables, no shade but they do have a dog park. Hookups were easy to reach and appeared to be in good repair. Decent water pressure."
Off-season preparations: Winter camping requires different expectations. Candace M. shares, "Even though we were there in late December all utilities were still on. Electrical connection even had a light to assist with connection."
