Tenting, RV camping, and seasonal yurt accommodations populate the Ozark National Scenic Riverways region, with options varying from developed state park campgrounds to primitive riverside sites. The area sits at elevations between 600-1,200 feet with a humid subtropical climate featuring hot summers and mild winters. Most developed campgrounds remain open from April through October, though primitive camping may be available year-round depending on weather conditions.
What to do
Cave exploration: 1.5 miles from Round Spring Campground, visitors can take guided tours of Round Spring Cave from June through October for $5 per person. According to Marty C., "The lantern tours show an amazing cave with many beautiful formations."
Float trips: Access multiple river sections from Harveys Circle B Campground which offers "floating outfitter to rent or they will put your own boat in," as noted by Laura, who stayed in an RV with a river view.
Hiking: Connect to the Ozark Trail from Round Spring Campground. Theresa H. reports, "We walked through the campground past the spring and caught a little trail that hooked up with the Ozark Trail and had a lovely day hike around a loop. It was perfect."
Wildlife viewing: Watch for native animals around Pulltite Campground. Reviewer Ellen F. warns, "Keep an eye out for copperheads and water moccasins along with black widow spiders. The gnats can get pretty bad in the evenings but quickly go away once the sun sets."
Fishing: Catch trout at Montauk State Park where the Current River begins. "This is a popular campground for canoeing on the Current River, also fishing and hiking. There is also a small cavern with ranger tours," explains Joel R. about Round Spring.
What campers like
River access: Direct water entry points at Pulltite Campground provide convenient swimming spots. "This is a great campground if you want to spend the day next to the river or use it as a launch, mid-float overnight, or an end point of a day on the Current River," says Annie C.
Scenic springs: Crystal-clear water features dot the region near Two Rivers Backcountry Camping. Jade G. explains, "The water is spring-fed and very clear and beautiful. Be sure to visit the nearby springs and sites of the recreational area. The springs are so deep blue and dramatic against the rocky cliffs."
Camping variety: Options for every comfort level at Echo Bluff State Park, which J K. describes as having "everything you can want from walk in tent sites to an entire lodge with all the amenities. Campsites are all well manicured and offer everything from basic sites to full RV hook ups."
Yurt camping: Seasonal structured canvas accommodations are available at select locations. Denni G. noted about Echo Bluff, "Love tent camping! Secluded and shaded. I want a few years back and it was lovely."
What you should know
Campsite reservations: Book early for prime locations, especially at popular parks. J K. advises about Echo Bluff, "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."
River conditions: Water levels fluctuate seasonally across the Ozark National Scenic Riverways. Joel R. notes about Round Spring, "There are tons of trees down in the water, making it a more technical trip at some points and even requiring us to get out and portage our canoe for about 25 yards."
Limited cell service: Communication may be unavailable in many areas. Stephanie N. says about Round Spring Campground, "It has zero cell service but you can drive about 2 miles up the road to the state park and connect their WiFi."
Yurt camping availability: Canvas structures and platforms typically require advance booking. Lea B. advises visitors near Round Spring to "Go in the early morning to the spring trail to watch the mist roll off the water and enjoy the wildlife - so otherworldly."
Tips for camping with families
Structured activities: Park ranger programs engage children. Shona H. mentions Pulltite has "Nightly fun activities, close to many different hiking trails, and an on-site general store."
Safe swimming areas: Designated water access points provide controlled environments. Joshua Y. describes Sam A. Baker State Park Campground as having "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."
Primitive vs. developed options: Choose sites based on amenities needed. Stephanie W. notes about Echo Bluff, "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!"
Wildlife education opportunities: Learn about local ecosystems throughout the riverways. Theresa H. reports, "We saw a bald eagle and a very curious little otter down by the river" at Round Spring Campground.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup options: Not all sites offer power connections in the Ozark National Scenic Riverways. Joel R. notes about Round Spring, "There are a few electric sites, but no water. So fill your tank before arriving. There is a dump station."
Site selections: Research specific campground layouts before arrival. Anita B. cautions about Echo Bluff, "The area the campground is located in is spectacular. Worth staying in the area. We, personally, like more of a woodsy feel. This campground felt very sterile. You are not sheltered at all by the forest trees."
Campground amenities: Check for seasonal variations in services across parks. Laura from Harveys Circle B Campground reports, "Super clean campground. Great swim area. Shower house is basic. We stayed in our RV on a spot with river view. Was really nice!"
