Mark Twain National Forest camping areas span across 1.5 million acres of diverse terrain in the Ozarks, with elevations ranging from 600 to 1,400 feet. Riverside camping opportunities often feature crystal-clear water with visibility extending 20-30 feet deep in spring-fed areas. Most campgrounds maintain vault toilets year-round, though full services including showers typically operate mid-April through mid-October.
What to do
River floating and tubing: Several campgrounds provide access points to the Current and Jacks Fork Rivers. At Round Spring Campground, "This is a popular campground for canoeing on the Current River, also fishing and hiking. There is also a small cavern with ranger tours," according to Joel R.
Wild horse viewing: Echo Bluff State Park offers opportunities to spot wildlife. "Very clean. Was able to see wild horses as well. Water, electric, and even wifi," notes Sage W. The elk reintroduction program near some campgrounds has created new wildlife viewing options.
Historic sites exploration: The Ozark region contains several historical points of interest. John B. mentions "Chose this location to be our hub while completing a Missouri springs tour. Visited 8 springs in total." Multiple campgrounds feature preserved mills, historic structures, or cultural sites from early Ozark settlements.
What campers like
Spring viewing: The vibrant blue waters of the springs attract many visitors. "Blue Spring is beautiful and cold! Aside from the over zealous teenagers jumping into the spring it was a nice visit," reports Shelly S. about Blue Spring Backcountry Camping.
Cave tours: Seasonal guided explorations offer unique underground experiences. "Tours of the cave are given daily June through August and cost $5. The lantern tours show an amazing cave with many beautiful formations," writes Marty C. about Round Spring Cave.
Swimming holes: Natural swimming areas with rock formations create popular recreation spots. Glen T. describes Rymers Backcountry Camping as having "a great swimming hole and beautiful scenery with nice tall cliffs. It has a couple big rocks out in the water you can swim to and jump off of."
What you should know
Road access challenges: Many campsites require navigating difficult terrain. Lula L. warns about Rymers: "Long beautiful drive in, narrow road would not recommend for motorhome over 20' or any large camper as there is no backing up or turn arounds."
Flooding risk: Riverside locations can become inaccessible during heavy rain. About Log Yard Campground, Joseph A. cautions: "You have to cross a creek to get to this location. If the weather moves in, it would be wise to pack up and move out while you can. If the creek comes up, you may not be able to cross it again."
Limited cell coverage: Communication options are extremely restricted in most camping areas. Hannah W. notes about Log Yard: "Just be aware you will not have cell service." Some campgrounds like Round Spring require driving several miles to find connectivity.
Variable amenities: Services differ significantly between campgrounds. Fred S. explains about Blue Spring: "There is no potable water, and no hookups. There is a his/hers vault toilet located in the center of the loop; it was clean and supplied with tp. Except for a small trash container in the vault toilet, there is no trash service at this campground."
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with ranger programs: Educational activities enhance family experiences. At Pulltite Campground, one visitor mentioned "Nightly fun activities, close to many different hiking trails, and an on-site general store."
Consider tent-specific areas: Some locations offer designated family-friendly sites. About Echo Bluff State Park, Stephanie W. shares: "This campground has full amenities. Clean bathrooms and showers. Firewood available for purchase and even WiFi. The WiFi doesn't reach the primitive campsites but that was perfect for us to unplug! It was a great place to take our kids!"
Plan for swimming safety: River and spring access points vary in depth and current. Joshua Y. describes Round Spring: "Clear waters on the current river lots of wild life. A little ways to get to any town but that's ok with me. Clean restrooms."
Tips for RVers
Limited large rig access: Many campgrounds cannot accommodate substantial vehicles. Joel R. notes: "The highway to get here is narrow, winding, and hilly! But it's worth the trip."
Book early for hookup sites: Electric and water connections are limited and in high demand. About Harveys Circle B Campground, Laura shares: "Super clean campground. Great swim area. Shower house is basic. We stayed in our RV on a spot with river view. Was really nice! Site 148 has standing water when it rains, but that was the only wet spot in the RV areas."
Consider shade availability: Newer campgrounds may lack mature tree cover. Janet S. observes about Echo Bluff: "This is the third year for this campground so the trees are small but if you have an awning or some kind of shade mechanism, all is good."
Plan for dump station access: Not all campgrounds offer dump facilities. Joshua Y. mentions: "Very accommodating campground. Has a nicely stocked store when you come in for anything you might have forgotten. Bathrooms were a little cramped but clean. Clean showers."
