Top Tent Camping near Ozark National Scenic Riverways

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Best Tent Sites Near Ozark National Scenic Riverways, MO (31)

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Recent Tent Reviews In Ozark National Scenic Riverways

520 Reviews of 31 Ozark National Scenic Riverways Campgrounds


  • Camper-submitted photo from Turner's mill
    August 29, 2024

    Turner's mill

    Peaceful and scenic

    Spent 3 nights here and the area is beautiful! The mill and springs are soothing and crystal clear. The river is shallow enough to wade across and cool off in. Great spot if you are in the area. A few people on the river fishing and kayaking but no other campers that we saw while there.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Sam A. Baker State Park Campground
    August 7, 2024

    Sam A. Baker State Park Campground

    Where the rivers meet

    Sam a Baker is a beautiful destination for any family. There is plenty to do from hiking to horseback riding. There are multi camp sites that can be easily reserved online. The Saint Francis River and the Big Creek meet in the park. The big creek is spring feed and ice cold. The Saint Francis is wild and is considered white water during the rainy season. There are plenty of amenities in the park for the novice camper. From the camp store to the shower house. SAM A BAKER has you covered

  • Camper-submitted photo from Parks Bluff Campground
    July 29, 2024

    Parks Bluff Campground

    A Busy Weekend

    We arrived later and the staff was so attentive and kind! They remembered our groups names and were so kind at the shop! We had a large camp ground, two spots fit our group of 8 with room! We also had 5 vehicles. The camp sites in the #70’s are so close to the water and a short walk to the toilet/shower house! The bathrooms could have been cleaner and some of the lights were out but not the worst I have seen! (Your camping anyways) the float shuttle was a bumpy ride but the drivers were nice and the men at the raft pick ups were kind also! I would recommend this lil place! Maybe not In The summer time when the river is busy but to camp anytime!

  • Camper-submitted photo from Riversedge Campground
    July 17, 2024

    Riversedge Campground

    HORRIBLE Customer Service

    Last year my family and I stayed at the Wilderness Lodge as I have done for over 30 years. We decided to go on a float trip at the Rivers Edge Campground which is affiliated with the Wilderness Lodge. When we made the reservation we had to pay for 2/4 people that were going when I made the reservation over the phone. On Sunday when we arrived to the Rivers Edge to go on our float, we were informed that there were severe storms headed in and we could not go on the float. We totally understood and asked if we could just get a rain check. We were able to get a rain check but they said that I would need to pay for the additional two people to get a rain check since there were 4 in our party total. I was told to hold onto my receipt and rain check because without those two items the rain check would not be honored. Fast forward to this week and we decided we would like to go back and use the rain check they had issued to us. When I called I was informed that they would not be honoring ANY rain checks because the property had been sold and the new owners will not honor ANY previously issued rain checks because the new owners were not paid the money for any outstanding rain checks..?? I was told by the lady on the phone that she would try to reach out to the new owner Mike and see what could be done and she would call me back. She did indeed call me back the same night and said she could not get a hold of the owner and then she was silent not offering ANY sort of solutions. I asked her if she could call me the next day and let me know what he said or if I could even speak with him. She never called back… so now I sit with a“RAIN CHECK” that I spent$170 for 4 floaters that clearly has an issue date, an expiration date, my name and address, what it is for, and why it was issued. It is stapled to my original receipt as well but I guess they will not be honoring it. This has to be one of the worst customer service experiences and poor business practices I have encountered in my life. It is apparently OK that I am out$170 for a float that I was told we could not go on that day and that seems to be perfectly OK with these new owners. I am completely disappointed in the lack of follow up and poor customer service. This is definitely not a best practice for a business and I will be letting everyone I know and on every forum I can that you basically stole$170 from my family and while it may seem like not a big deal to you it certainly is to me and my family.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Alley Spring Campground — Ozark National Scenic Riverway
    May 27, 2024

    Alley Spring Campground — Ozark National Scenic Riverway

    Needs tent pads

    Pretty campground with river access and accessible restrooms. Showers were a little far from our loop. I wish the sites had tent pads as it was hard to find a flat spot to place the tent and several holes in the terrain. There is NO cell signal, so I highly recommend you take a weather radio. I wish we had.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Red Bluff Campground
    May 26, 2024

    Red Bluff Campground

    Not What it Was

    If you’ve been coming to this campground for decades as my family has, prepare yourself. They’ve taken this hidden gem abounding with rustic, quiet character and turned it into a busy RV park. Most spots are not ideal for tent camping. The beaches are too small to accommodate the number of people now coming in. It’s just heartbreaking. It’s our ancestral home and we just don’t know if we can handle going back. The whole vibe is drastically different. It’s looks like every other RV park out there. It used to be a short walk to get to the water. Not anymore. They also got rid of the picnic area close to the water. It was extremely inconvenient getting my elderly mother down to the water (and then finding a beach spot on our side of the creek was impossible).

  • Camper-submitted photo from Round Spring Campground — Ozark National Scenic Riverway
    May 19, 2024

    Round Spring Campground — Ozark National Scenic Riverway

    Choose Tent Site Carefully

    Positives: Tranquil little campground with beautiful spring and cave. Quiet, shady, has two points of river access, group sites, and steaming hot showers.  Close to Echo Bluff State Park, Current River State Park, and Eminence, MO.  

    Negatives:  Test sites are hit or miss. Sites 1-18 are fairly small and not very level. Sites 19-29 have larger, more level areas. 30-39 are kind of mixed.  Many sites have steps up of down to the site from the road.  There is no cell service available, so make sure you have made reservations before you get here. Closest cell service is up the road at Echo Bluff State Park. 

    Other info: You may get lucky and see otters on your way to the spring, or some of the wild horses in the area. Go in the early morning to the spring trail to watch the mist roll off the water and enjoy the wildlife - so otherworldly. 

    Cave tours are available June - Oct., but even if you visit is outside of this window, the walk to the cave is kind of magical.  

    If you walk to the spring overlook, you'll also encounter a portion of the Ozark Trail. About a half a mile down the Ozark Trail you can cross the Current River on a pedestrian bridge which is a pretty cool experience.  

    Bathrooms available on the upper camping loop, but the showers are located on the bottom loop (three family style showers).  Fantastic water pressure. 

    Host was friendly even when he had to tell us we couldn't hang hammocks in National Park campgrounds. 

    While you're there drive down to Alley Spring for a nice hike, another beautiful spring and historic mill, and at the camp store you can get a National Parks Passport stamp (located in the screened in porch) for the Ozark National Scenic Riverways. 

    We stayed in site 13 which is located directly behind the bathrooms. Good if you have to go all the time, bad if you don't like to hear loud toilet flushes.  Very shady site.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Powder Mill Backcountry Camping — Ozark National Scenic Riverway
    May 14, 2024

    Powder Mill Backcountry Camping — Ozark National Scenic Riverway

    Quiet spot

    Found this by accident-the site we originally were going to as dispersed was literally under water from all the recent rain. For a three night stay, we were the only ones there. Except the random cars who visited between midnight and three AM and just hung out. That was unsettling but nothing happened. A NFS Ranger did circle around once.

    Popular spot on the weekend to launch boats. There is a vault toilet but that is all the amenities offered. Of the six sites, some are a bit wild, but usable. We stayed at spot three, which has a great view of, and access to, the Current River.

    The Blue Springs Trail that is located at campground was flooded over about a third of the way in with no safe way around. The trail is also not maintained, with lots of downed large trees and copious ticks.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Little Scotia Pond 4x4 Dispersed Site
    April 15, 2024

    Little Scotia Pond 4x4 Dispersed Site

    Great site

    Great quiet site. Wasn’t a bad drive in. Decent amount of wild life hanging around. Will probably hear the beaver if you stay at one of the two sites by the pond. Only saw one other group camping here while we did. Be mindful that it is tick season now. We had a few on the dog by the end of the first day.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Sulphur Springs Dispersed
    April 8, 2024

    Sulphur Springs Dispersed

    Beautiful River site for parking or dispersed

    We stopped here chasing the 2024 eclipse. Easy to find. No cost. About 20 parking spaces, a vault toilet, and a boat launch. Open for solar panels, but tree cover around the lot. Only about 5 parking spaces are not on a slant. Places in the trees for tents. Absolutely beautiful views up and down the river. A single fire pit on the river’s edge. No road noise to speak of because it is way in the distance and rare at night. Fireflies and owls into the night. Mist on the water in the morning: just beautiful. T mobile service has 3 of 4 bars. There is no apparent Verizon service.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park
    March 18, 2024

    Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park

    Late Winter Camping

    The campground was big and comfortable. We wanted to stay close to the open shower houses since only those in loop 3 and the cabins were open until April. Stayed in loop 2, which was still close enough to cabins shower house. Our site was right at the beginning of the loop and was very level and offered privacy since no one was to our right. No problem with cell service for 5G, we were able to stream music and apps. Anything under 5G was in SOS mode. No antennae TV available, either. The shut-ins were right down the road or you could walk or bike the paved path all the way there. The Scour Trail was also close and really neat to see.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Sycamore Loop Dispersed
    March 15, 2024

    Sycamore Loop Dispersed

    Ok place

    Ok place to camp, pretty secluded, old campground but most spots no longer seemed camp friendly, as new tree growth has taken over. Seems to be a guy living in a rv at the end of the road which is really close to the one camping friendly spot, kinda kills the dispersed camping vibe.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Little Scotia Pond 4x4 Dispersed Site
    March 7, 2024

    Little Scotia Pond 4x4 Dispersed Site

    Great “off the pavement” spot

    Although the old rv park across the water is nice and level, we ended up wanting to be closer to the water and there happened to be a trail. Easy to get in but could be tricky for a small car to get out (boulders, trees, incline and possible rain/mud) 4x4 recommend. Great spot right next to the dam. Very quiet. Lots of beavers in the pond. Fire wood is abundant. A few fire rings in place at location.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Julian Tower Lookout
    January 3, 2024

    Julian Tower Lookout

    National Forest - Old Julian Lookout Tower site - Tower Removed

    There is not much here other than a place to camp for free. There is one two-path logging road suitable for hiking and mountain biking back into the woods. It leads to a T where additional two-path logging road.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Taum Sauk Mountain State Park Campground
    November 20, 2023

    Taum Sauk Mountain State Park Campground

    Taum Saul Mountain Campground

    Very nice secluded camping. Only a handful of other campers at the site. Nice fire pits and picnic tables with access to small pit bathrooms. Easy access to the mountain overlook and trailheads. Parking at the sites is about 50-100ft away from the table and fire pit. Wish we could’ve gotten our van closer.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Current River Recreation Area
    October 6, 2023

    Current River Recreation Area

    Loved it

    Wow, what an incredible weekend we had at the CurrantRiver Campground From the moment we arrived, we were greeted with warm hospitality and a sense of adventure. The campground itself was well-maintained, with clean facilities and spacious campsites that offered just the right amount of privacy.

    The highlight of our trip was, of course, the canoeing experience. The staff provided top-notch equipment and safety instructions, making us feel confident even though we were beginners. Paddling down the scenic Currant River was an absolute joy. The water was crystal clear, and the surrounding nature was breathtaking. We encountered some gentle rapids, which added a thrill to the journey without being too challenging for novices like us.

    One thing that stood out was the wildlife we spotted along the way – eagles, deer,It felt like a true escape into nature.

    The team made our trip unforgettable. They were knowledgeable about the area, provided great tips for navigating the river, and ensured our safety at all times. We also appreciated the convenience of shuttle service back to the campground after our float trip.

    Overall, this place exceeded our expectations, and we can't wait to return. If you're looking for a relaxing yet adventurous getaway in the heart of Missouri this is it

  • Camper-submitted photo from Timbuktu Campground — Echo Bluff State Park
    October 4, 2023

    Timbuktu Campground — Echo Bluff State Park

    Great place for upscale camping and rv

    Echo Bluff State Park is nestled in the heart of Missouri's Ozarks. This natural haven offers a perfect retreat for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. The park boasts a stunning blend of scenic beauty, recreational activities, and comfortable amenities.

    The first thing that strikes you about Echo Bluff State Park is its breathtaking natural beauty. The towering bluffs, dense forests, and the pristine Sinking Creek that meanders through the park create a picturesque landscape that's a joy to explore. Hiking trails like the Signal Hill Trail and Current River Trail offer hikers stunning vistas and the chance to encounter local wildlife.

    For those looking to relax, the park offers a range of options. The modern campground facilities are well-maintained and provide all the comforts of home, while the cozy cabins offer a rustic yet comfortable escape. The Echo Bluff Lodge is a standout feature, offering a beautiful setting for meals and relaxation with its panoramic views of the park.

    One of the highlights of Echo Bluff State Park is its accessibility to the Current River. Canoeing, kayaking, and fishing are popular activities, and the park provides easy access to the river. It's also a designated Missouri Trout Park, making it a paradise for anglers.

    In conclusion, Echo Bluff State Park is a haven for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful getaway. Its natural beauty, outdoor activities, and comfortable accommodations make it a must-visit destination in Missouri. Whether you're an avid hiker, a water sports enthusiast, or simply looking for a tranquil escape, Echo Bluff has something to offer everyone.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Big Spring Campground — Ozark National Scenic Riverway
    September 23, 2023

    Big Spring Campground — Ozark National Scenic Riverway

    one of my favorite places

    This campground is a must visit. Obviously the main attraction is the amazing and magical spring. Flowing 226 million gallons a day! Campground is beautifully manicured and has spacious sites and many options. It's a self serve campground so pay at the front. The hot water in the showers was out but still giving it 5 stars because this place is just great. The cabins are super cute cottages that are being remodeled right now, and I can't wait! The trails are well kept and moderately challenging. I highly recommend camping here dont forget to bring in your own firewood.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Timbuktu Campground — Echo Bluff State Park
    September 16, 2023

    Timbuktu Campground — Echo Bluff State Park

    Absolutely perfect!

    First, the park hosts were so friendly, helpful and hard working. They kept everything spotless! Bathrooms and showers were a 10. Grounds were a 10. Location and surroundings were gorgeous. Sites were spacious and there’s not a “bad” site in the whole park. It was Peaceful and quiet at night. We walked through the walk in tent camping area and it was amazing. Sites were big, private and spread out through the woods with wooden platforms. Path through the area was gravel and very well maintained. The Betty Lea Lodge was close and had an awesome store and gift shop. We will definitely be back!

  • Camper-submitted photo from Timbuktu Campground — Echo Bluff State Park
    August 15, 2023

    Timbuktu Campground — Echo Bluff State Park

    Great place!!

    Great place to stay. Easy to get checked in staff is super helpful. Quiet campground not a lot of loud music and people. Other campers are super friendly and nice. Bluffs at at the lodge are amazing to see. Will definitely be coming back!!

  • Camper-submitted photo from Sam A. Baker State Park Campground
    August 6, 2023

    Sam A. Baker State Park Campground

    Family Camping Perfection ✨

    We have been coming here for years, there is something for everyone here! The water is slow and shallow enough in tons of places for littles and deep and cold enough for the older kids and adults to cool off too. The store is adorable, the food is surprisingly really good (I’m craving those loaded nachos!), and when you’re absent-minded like me and forget the bikes you can rent them there 😁 We like Campground 2 on the gravel side (to the left when you pull in) because it’s nice and quiet and close to the nature center. You really can’t go wrong with any of the sites!

  • Camper-submitted photo from Flying W Store & Sampground
    July 31, 2023

    Flying W Store & Sampground

    Clean clean clean

    We have stayed here four or five times now, so clean and the people working are friendly. We have stayed other places and this is by far the most clean and maintained. Highly recommend.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Pinewoods Lake Rec Area — Mark Twain National Forest
    July 26, 2023

    Pinewoods Lake Rec Area — Mark Twain National Forest

    Quiet and nice

    This was a great stay! Nice and peaceful, great company with total strangers on the next site over. Campsites are spaced out nicely. There are only a handful of sites that are suitable for tents as each site varies on cleared area. No water or electricity that we seen. Boat launch and floating dock are just a short walk from any camp site. We stayed at campsite #5 and it was spacious for our tent. Dumpster for trash is next to the bathrooms across from site #3 & 4. Asphalt road through the camping area and Asphalt pulloffs at each site. Chiggers and bugs are an issue here so bring plenty of Off. We stayed 10 nights and we will definitely mark this one down on our list. Truck Stop 1 mile east for ice, food and drinks. There is a small grocery store about 18 miles west with a great selection. Picnic table and fire pit at each site. Free wood laying all over the place, when the management team cut trees down they leave them there for campers to use.



Guide to Ozark National Scenic Riverways

Camping near Ozark National Scenic Riverways, Missouri, offers a fantastic escape into nature with beautiful landscapes and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to hike, fish, or just relax by the river, there’s something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the scenic trails around the area. Many campers rave about the trails at Echo Bluff State Park, where one visitor noted, "The hiking trails like the Signal Hill Trail and Current River Trail offer stunning vistas and the chance to encounter local wildlife."
  • Fishing: The rivers are great for fishing, especially at Montauk State Park Campground. A reviewer mentioned, "This place is perfect for easy stream and running water fishing."
  • Swimming and Canoeing: Enjoy the refreshing waters of the Current River. A camper at Big Spring Campground said, "The river access behind site 52 is pretty cool with a short sandy trail to the bank."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the campgrounds. One visitor at Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park remarked, "This was such a clean campground. From the restrooms to the campsite and the river, everything was amazing."
  • Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds offer roomy sites. A reviewer at Pulltite Campground mentioned, "Each site is spacious and plenty of hammock trees and little corners for tents if you want a little privacy from the group."
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often highlight the helpfulness of the campground hosts. A visitor at Sutton Bluff Recreation Area said, "The host is awesome and takes good care of the campground."

What you should know:

  • Limited Cell Service: Many campgrounds have poor or no cell service. A camper at Alley Spring Campground advised, "There is NO cell signal, so I highly recommend you take a weather radio."
  • Reservations Recommended: Popular spots can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. A visitor at Pulltite Campground noted, "MAKE RESERVATIONS! This campground exploded in the last few years and it's always packed when we go anymore."
  • Wildlife Encounters: Be prepared to see local wildlife. A reviewer at Round Spring Campground shared, "We saw wild horses. The Rangers were friendly and helpful."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for campgrounds with amenities for kids. A parent at Echo Bluff State Park said, "The park hosts were so friendly, helpful and hard working. They kept everything spotless!"
  • Plan Activities: Bring games and outdoor activities to keep kids entertained. A camper at Montauk State Park Campground mentioned, "The store was a highlight for my daughter and they really have some great fishing gear and supplies."
  • Safety First: Always keep an eye on children near water. A visitor at Big Spring Campground reminded, "The river is awesome, cold, and a highlight of the campground."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Pulltite Campground said, "Super easy to get my 28' trailer backed into site 52."
  • Be Prepared for Weather: Bring gear for rain, as some sites can get muddy. A camper at Sutton Bluff Recreation Area noted, "This isn’t a campground that you would want to bring a large RV into."
  • Use Dump Stations: Familiarize yourself with dump station locations. A visitor at Montauk State Park Campground mentioned, "There was a dump station in loop 4 and another one near the entrance."

Camping near Ozark National Scenic Riverways, Missouri, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors with family and friends. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy all the natural beauty this area has to offer!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular tent campsite near Ozark National Scenic Riverways?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Ozark National Scenic Riverways is Taum Sauk Mountain State Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 22 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find tent camping near Ozark National Scenic Riverways?

    TheDyrt.com has all 31 tent camping locations near Ozark National Scenic Riverways, with real photos and reviews from campers.