Glamping in Pomona, Missouri offers access to over 550 miles of shoreline along the Current and Eleven Point rivers. The surrounding Ozarks region maintains elevations between 800-1,700 feet, creating a hilly terrain punctuated by natural springs and limestone formations. Summer temperatures typically reach the 90s with high humidity, while spring and fall offer more moderate conditions in the 60s and 70s.
What to do
River access: North Fork Recreation Area provides multiple points to enter the Current River. "Sites are right on the river so you can hear it rushing as you fall asleep. Beautiful scenery with good hiking nearby," notes Katie L., who visited the North Fork campground.
Cave exploration: Round Spring Cave offers guided tours for $5 from June through August. "The lantern tours show an amazing cave with many beautiful formations," explains Marty C., who stayed at Round Spring Campground. Tours require reservations during peak season.
Fishing opportunities: The region offers premium trout fishing spots across several waterways. "The Current along with the Jack's Fork River make up the Ozark National Scenic Riverways National Park. Since it is one of Missouri's trout parks you will find a majority of campers are there to fish," explains Kyle H. about Montauk State Park.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Echo Bluff State Park features well-maintained camping areas with various accommodation options. "Campsites are all well manicured and offer everything from basic sites to full RV hook ups," shares J K. who stayed at the park. Many visitors appreciate the campground's accessibility and amenities despite noting it can get crowded during peak seasons.
Water activities: The Eleven Point River provides clear water for kayaking and floating trips. "This has been my favorite river to float down so far. I'd suggest making the trip without kids the first time to judge your skill level. It's a bit fast and deep at the beginning," recommends Elisha P., who used Richard's Canoe Rental & Campground as a starting point.
Wildlife viewing: The area offers opportunities to spot diverse wildlife in their natural habitat. "We saw a bald eagle and a very curious little otter down by the river. Close proximity to the ozark trail," notes Theresa H. from her spring glamping trip. Some campgrounds even report wild horse sightings in nearby fields.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Many campgrounds in the area have limited operating seasons. "Most sites have electric but no water. So fill your tank before arriving. There is a dump station. It is a popular park in summer and fall, so reservations are advised," explains Joel R. about camping facilities at Round Spring.
Weather impacts: Spring rains can affect water levels and campground access. "In the spring of 2020 many sites were under water from the spring rain," reports Joe J. about Robinson Point, indicating the need to check conditions before arrival.
Cell service limitations: Most campgrounds in the area have limited or no cell service. "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," advises Lea B. about Round Spring Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water options: Some areas offer safer water access points than others. "There is a herd of wild horses that frequents the area and you can easily walk over to the beautiful round spring. There is an on/off-loading area for canoes and kayaks," mentions Theresa H., highlighting the family-friendly amenities at Round Spring.
Educational opportunities: Take advantage of ranger programs offered at several campgrounds. "The host was great did a nice show at the amphitheater about the local area bathroom and showers are great, not to mention the nice clean river," shares Jeff A. about his family's experience at Round Spring.
Food options: Plan meals according to available facilities. "The lodge has a full restaurant, as well as a diner style counter. My son love's to go and sit at the counter to get ice cream," reports Kyle H. from Montauk State Park. "You can even order a sack lunch to take out to the river bank."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Consider campground layouts when booking. "Most of the campsites are scattered along the road with lots of trees and privacy. The electric sites are in the center of the campground on the road with no shade," advises Joel R. about Round Spring Campground.
Hookup availability: Check utility options before booking. "Site was fairly level. Definitely a wooded setting," notes Mary D. who stayed at Ozarks Mountain Springs RV Park. Many glamping locations in Pomona offer varying levels of electric and water hookups, but sewer connections are less common.
Dump station access: Plan accordingly for waste management. "Limited spots that can't be reserved, and many that can. Tent spaces, RV hook-ups and group spots. Good, clean restrooms with separate shower stalls," explains Shona H. about Pulltite Campground, which offers dump station facilities for RVers.
