The Mark Twain National Forest spans 1.5 million acres across southern Missouri with elevations ranging from 600 to 1,400 feet. Most RV campgrounds within and around the forest operate from March through November, with average summer temperatures reaching into the 90s. Winter camping is limited due to seasonal facility closures and occasional ice storms affecting rural road access.
What to do
Floating trips: Several campgrounds provide direct river access for floating the Jacks Fork River. Jacks Fork Canoe Rental and Campground offers canoes, tubes, and kayaks for rent on-site. "Very nice place to stay riverside. Great Price. Tubes canoes and kayaks available for rent. Friendly staff," notes camper Shawn B.
Creek exploration: Sites with water features allow for cooling off during hot Missouri summers. Big Creek RV Park features a spring-fed creek along its boundary. "The creek is nice for cooling down on a hot day, but there is a pool if you'd rather do that," shares Mike T. The park also offers evening hayrides every Saturday.
Horseback riding: Equestrian campers can access dedicated riding trails at certain campgrounds. Fourche Creek RV Park and Riding Trails provides horse stalls near camping sites and maintains private trails around a lake. "They provided a tack room, pitch fork, wheelbarrow and shovel to help us clean up after our horses - enjoyed their private trails that went around the big lake," reports Kelly M.
What campers like
Large level sites: Most RV campgrounds near Mark Twain National Forest feature concrete or gravel pads. "The sites are well maintained and offer everything from basic sites to full RV hook ups," explains J K. about Timbuktu Campground at Echo Bluff State Park.
Consistent cellular connectivity: Cell service varies significantly by location. Campers report best connectivity at established RV parks. "Even though we were there in late December all utilities were still on. Electrical connection even had a light to assist with connection," notes Candace M. about Road Runner RV Park.
Clean facilities: Newer campgrounds typically offer updated bathroom facilities. "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," writes Stephanie W. about tent camping at Echo Bluff.
What you should know
Limited shade at newer facilities: Many recently developed campgrounds feature minimal tree coverage. "This campground felt very sterile. You are not sheltered at all by the forest trees," observes Anita B. about Echo Bluff State Park.
Advanced reservations required: Popular campgrounds fill quickly during peak seasons. "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," advises J K.
Varying accessibility: Some campgrounds require navigation on rural roads. Little Sinkin Creek RV Resort is located in the Ozark Mountains with nearby hiking opportunities. "This place is a gem. Family operated and located in the Ozark Mountains with beautiful scenery nearby to explore," shares Sean O.
Tips for camping with families
Look for scheduled activities: Some campgrounds organize regular weekend events. "Saturday is fun with different campground activities and an evening hayride," explains Mike T. about Big Creek RV Park, which also features duck races that campers report as "fun" for children.
Consider connectivity needs: While some families prefer to disconnect, others need access to communication. "WiFi doesn't reach the primitive campsites but that was perfect for us to unplug! It was a great place to take our kids," notes Stephanie W.
Check creek safety: Water features provide cooling options but require supervision. "The creek is nice for cooling down on a hot day, but there is a pool if you'd rather do that," mentions Mike T., highlighting the option between natural and controlled swimming environments at Big Creek RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Pack supplies: Rural locations may have limited shopping options. "Not a lot of supplies nearby. Make sure you bring with you," advises Eric H. about staying at Big Creek RV Park, which is located 8 minutes from the nearest town.
Verify site dimensions: Most campgrounds can accommodate standard RVs, but specifications vary. Ozarks Mountain Springs RV Park offers sites that are "graveled and level, and most are full hookups. The majority also have picnic table and fire pit," according to Sandra M.
Check hookup specifications: Electrical service varies between campgrounds, with most offering 50-amp connections. "Sites are close together and there is a train beside the river... but otherwise pretty great," notes Amy & Stu B. about their experience at Big Creek RV Park, suggesting noise considerations for light sleepers.
