Camping near Van Buren, Missouri offers access to multiple water recreation areas including the Current River, Jack's Fork River, and Clearwater Lake within the Ozark National Scenic Riverways. The region's elevation ranges from 400-1,000 feet with summer temperatures averaging 85-90°F during peak season. Winter camping remains available at several year-round sites where temperatures typically range from 20-45°F.
What to do
Explore cave systems: Round Spring Campground offers tours of Round Spring Cave from June through August for $5 per person. "Tours of the cave are given daily June through August and cost $5. The lantern tours show an amazing cave with many beautiful formations," according to a camper at Round Spring Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Look for wild horses and river otters near Round Spring. As one visitor noted, "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."
Hiking options: The Ozark Trail connects with several campgrounds in the area. "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," shares a camper who stayed at Round Spring Campground.
What campers like
Spring-fed waters: Two Rivers Backcountry Camping provides clear, cool water for swimming. One visitor reported, "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," making this a standout destination for water enthusiasts.
Quick town access: Circle B Campground provides riverfront sites with easy access to supplies. "Campgrounds are right outside of town if you need to go get anything they might not have at the store. I would stay here again," shares a recent visitor, noting the convenience factor.
Affordable firewood: Kempers Hideaway Resort offers budget-conscious campers good value on essentials. A guest mentioned, "Save your money and buy firewood here at the hideaway, best value ($7) and a large amount, you can also purchase ice here as well in the office area."
What you should know
Limited cell service: Many campgrounds in the area have poor or no cell coverage. At Round Spring Campground, "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."
Seasonal availability: Many campgrounds operate seasonally from April through October. Round Spring is available "mid apr-late sep" while Bluff View at Clearwater Lake operates from "May 15 to September 15."
Site selection matters: Campsite quality varies significantly within the same campground. "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."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water play: Two Rivers Backcountry Camping offers safe river access for children. "We had a section of the river to ourselves and it was a large private spot," reports one family, though they note the campsite itself "was rocky, so mats would be hard."
Nearby yurt camping: While yurt camping in Van Buren, Missouri is limited, nearby Clearwater Lake offers yurt accommodations. According to Bluff View's information, their facilities include "tent, rv, cabin, glamping, yurt" options for families seeking alternative shelters.
Weekday advantages: For quieter family experiences, time your visit strategically. One camper at Round Spring noted: "When we were there in April there were only a handful of other campers there and we tons of quiet and privacy, however, I imagine during the summer it fills up."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds require preparation for uneven terrain. At Webb Creek Park, one RVer reported it's an "older campground, very tight and some sites are uneven" and "could be more difficult for larger rigs to level or find the convince of private campgrounds."
Full hookup locations: For complete services, Timbuktu Campground at Echo Bluff State Park provides premium connections. A visitor noted: "This campground has full amenities. Clean bathrooms and showers. Firewood available for purchase and even WiFi," though they mentioned "The WiFi doesn't reach the primitive campsites."
Shade considerations: Newer campgrounds often lack mature trees. "All of the campsites are out in the open with no shade," warns a visitor to Echo Bluff State Park, suggesting RVers should "have an awning or some kind of shade mechanism."
