Blue Spring Ranch attracts campers to the Meramec River Valley southwest of Stanton, Missouri, where elevations range from 700 to 900 feet. The area's forested Ozark terrain features limestone and dolomite rock formations that create natural springs. Camping options include both riverside locations along the Meramec and more secluded woodland settings that offer relief from summer temperatures that regularly exceed 85°F in July and August.
What to do
Trail riding experiences: Blue Spring Ranch offers horseback riding with guided tours along established trails. These rides require advance booking. "We did a 5 mile float which was amazing! They bus you up river and then you end up back at the campground... They also have trail riding and a zip line, but trail riding was all booked when we called to reserve," explains a visitor at Blue Spring Ranch.
River floating: The Meramec and Huzzah rivers provide floating opportunities with varying trip lengths. "We stayed here this weekend (I usually go on a few float trips a year) and it was fun as always!! Cleanest showers and bathrooms so far this summer!" notes a camper at Huzzah Valley Resort. Many campgrounds offer equipment rentals and shuttle services with trips ranging from 2-8 miles.
Ziplining adventures: Several campgrounds feature aerial adventure courses with ziplines. "My family also enjoy the Floating Trees ropes course. It was supposed to be about 2 hours but the instructors let them go an extra 45 minutes without anyone feeling rushed," reports a visitor at Ozark Outdoors-Riverfront Resort.
What campers like
Beach access options: Many campgrounds maintain dedicated river beach areas for swimming and wading. "Highly recommend going to the 'Upper Beach'! It's up by the cabins/cottages and you definitely need to drive there. Get there early in the morning to set up your chairs in the river to get a good spot," advises a camper from Blue Spring Ranch.
Camp stores and amenities: Most established campgrounds maintain well-stocked stores with camping necessities and food options. "They have a store that is well stocked and nice bathrooms and showers. Not alot of privacy like you would find at a national park but fun for a party atmosphere," mentions a visitor at Ozark Outdoors-Riverfront Resort.
Primitive camping alternatives: For those seeking seclusion away from the more developed facilities, dispersed camping options exist in nearby Mark Twain National Forest. "No cell signal, and as the other reviewer has said, have your map to get there, because it's easy if you do. Your phone will not get you there. Beautiful clear water creek runs directly behind this 'pull off' campground," notes a camper at Brazil Creek.
What you should know
Campsite layout considerations: Many campgrounds use a buddy system for RV sites allowing campers to face each other. "We enjoyed the buddy sites so that our front doors faced our friends and the hookups were on the outside of each campsite. They also had group buddy sites that allowed four rigs to all front doors to face each other all being pull through sites," explains a visitor at Ozark Outdoors-Riverfront Resort.
Bathroom and shower facilities: Most established campgrounds provide shower facilities, though some charge additional fees. "Bathroom and shower facilities were walking distance from our camp but unfortunately a few of the showers on the female side didn't work and all were extremely dirty," warns a camper at Bass' River Resort.
Noise levels vary: The region's popularity for river recreation creates different atmosphere levels depending on location and time. "This is primarily a campground for people floating the Meramec River and other area streams. They provide canoe rental, and transport to the put-in points. On summer weekends it is crowded and noisy," explains a reviewer at Ozark Outdoors-Riverfront Resort.
Tips for camping with families
Look for designated family sections: Many campgrounds separate family camping areas from more active party zones. "We average 3-4 trips a year here! We love it and the 5 mile float is the perfect amount of time on the river! They have fun themed weekends! 4th of July and Halloween are our favorites," shares a regular visitor to Blue Spring Ranch.
Check for kid-friendly amenities: Swimming beaches, pools, playgrounds and organized activities enhance family stays. "Lost valley happens to be one of our favorite camp grounds. They are extremely family friendly, they have an indoor pool, hot tubs, and sona, an outdoor pool and hot tubs, inflatable jump pillows, concerts almost every weekend," reports a camper at Lost Valley Lake Resort.
Consider proximity to attractions: The region offers caves and other natural attractions within driving distance. "It's close to the caverns and other awesome sites. Clean shower houses and a pool cap off the nice experience," mentions a family camper at Blue Spring Ranch.
Tips from RVers
Site selection and leveling: RVers should check specific site dimensions and leveling requirements before booking. "The campsite was so unlevel my 1 year old couldnt even stand outside the camper without falling. There was NO room to play at all outside the camper on the family side," warns an RVer about certain spots at Ozark Outdoors-Riverfront Resort.
Road conditions for large rigs: Access roads to some campgrounds may present challenges for larger RVs. "They have tent sites, and RV sites with 50 amp hookups, water, and sewer. Some sites have river access and some river views. There wasn't much grass, and few trees for shade," notes a reviewer at Ozark Outdoors-Riverfront Resort.
Full-hookup availability: Most established campgrounds offer full-hookup sites, though premium locations book quickly. "We booked a RV trip here with another family. We were able to reserve side by side and had a great time. The general store has most everything you need, its quiet, family friendly and well maintained," reports a visitor at Blue Spring Ranch.
