Missouri's Ozark region near Plato offers primitive camping sites within Mark Twain National Forest at elevations ranging from 800-1,400 feet. The area receives 43 inches of annual rainfall, creating lush forested terrain with access to spring-fed rivers. Tent and RV sites are available year-round, though some yurt camping options near Plato, Missouri operate seasonally from April through October.
What to do
Fishing at Montauk State Park: Purchase a $3 trout tag at the lodge allowing you to keep 4 trout per day with an 8-fish possession limit. Conservation officers stock the Current River nightly based on tag sales. "[The] stretch of river from spring to the falls are some of my favorite fishing anywhere," notes Kyle H. from Montauk State Park Campground.
Cave exploration: Tour Round Spring Cave from June through October for $5 per person. "The lantern tours show an amazing cave with many beautiful formations," according to Marty C. who visited Round Spring Campground. Rangers lead daily tours during summer months.
Creek wading: Lane Spring Recreation Area provides shallow creek access ideal for cooling off. "The campground is in the middle of a forest with a large creek running around it... The sound of the creek running right behind my camp site felt so soothing," writes Erin from Lane Spring Recreation Area.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept restrooms and shower houses. "Clean bathrooms and showers on sight. 10/10 recommend," reports Marc G. about Pinecrest Campground and Cabins. This attention to cleanliness extends across most established campgrounds in the area.
River proximity: Sites along the Current River provide easy water access for swimming and fishing. "The Current River provides some of the best canoeing anywhere in America as well as good fishing for Smallmouth Bass," explains Marty C. about Round Spring Campground. Many sites offer direct river views.
Shaded camping: Mature trees provide natural cooling during summer months. "Very nice campground, tons of shade! My site (206) was very level and was surrounded in trees like basically ever other site which made it comfortable to sit outside all day," notes Trevor S. about Montauk State Park.
What you should know
Seasonal differences: Some facilities operate limited schedules during off-season months. "Cave tours are available June - Oct., but even if your visit is outside of this window, the walk to the cave is kind of magical," advises Lea B. about Round Spring Campground.
Reservation requirements: Popular sites fill quickly, especially during summer months. "The campground can be a bit difficult to book, if visiting on a Friday or Saturday, but the park is worth it," recommends Jesse C. about Bennett Spring State Park Campground.
Cell service limitations: Many campgrounds have limited or no connectivity. "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," warns Lea B. about Round Spring Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with planned programming for children. "There were a lot of activities aimed at kids," mentions Dan N. about Montauk State Park. "Tons of family and little kid friendly activities," adds Leah H.
Swimming access: Safe water entry points provide natural recreation options. "If you head out of the park on YY you will find Tan Vat Access located right outside the park on the Current. This is a great place to take young ones for a dip in its cool waters," suggests Kyle H. about Montauk State Park.
Yurt accommodations: For families new to camping, consider yurt options at Timbuktu Campground — Echo Bluff State Park. "A lot of nice stuff is provided to do and keep you entertained. Very beautiful scenery," reports Nicole T. These sturdy canvas structures provide comfort with basic amenities.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Research specific campsite characteristics before booking. "Sites 1-18 are fairly small and not very level. Sites 19-29 have larger, more level areas," advises Lea B. about Round Spring Campground. This preparation ensures your rig fits properly.
Utility access: Full hookup availability varies by campground. "When we pulled into the campground and picked out a super sweet paved full hook-up site we let out a sigh of approval and knew we were going to really like it there for a few days," shares Nancy W. about Bennett Spring State Park.
Seasonal limitations: Winter camping options exist but with reduced services. "We stayed in campground one because it is the only one open during the off season," notes Nathan P. about Bennett Spring State Park. Travelers seeking yurt camping near Plato should check availability since many structures close during winter months.
