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Best Campgrounds near Thayer, MO

293 Reviews

The Thayer, Missouri area includes numerous campgrounds along the Spring River and nearby waterways, providing options for tent, RV, and cabin campers. Established campgrounds such as Riverside Campground and Canoe and Spring River Trout Shop offer riverside sites with amenities like showers, picnic tables, and fire rings. Many Islands Campground and Richard's Canoe Rental & Campground provide both developed and primitive camping areas, with some sites featuring electrical hookups and water access. Several facilities also rent canoes, kayaks, and other watercraft for river exploration, making these locations popular for combined camping and water recreation trips.

Road conditions remain generally accessible for most vehicles, though some campground entrances may require careful navigation for larger RVs. Seasonal considerations affect camping in the region, particularly during holiday weekends when sites fill quickly. "This campground is not for everyone. During busy holiday weekend this campground is a PARTY and a half," noted one camper about Many Islands Campground. Summer brings higher temperatures and increased river traffic, while spring offers cooler weather but potential for higher water levels. Most campgrounds operate year-round, though services may be limited in winter months. Reservations are strongly recommended during peak season from Memorial Day through Labor Day, as riverside sites are particularly popular.

Water access represents a primary attraction for campers in the region, with Spring River known for its consistent 50-degree water temperature flowing from natural springs. Fishing opportunities abound, particularly for trout near Mammoth Spring. Campers mention the family-friendly atmosphere at certain campgrounds while others cater more to adults looking for a lively social scene. "We love this campground. Quite time at night which is great if you have kids," shared a visitor about Riverside Campground. Bathroom and shower facilities vary significantly between locations, with some receiving praise for cleanliness while others are described as basic. Most developed campgrounds provide amenities like trash collection, potable water, and camp stores selling essentials, though availability may be seasonal.

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Best Camping Sites Near Thayer, Missouri (127)

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Recent Camping Photos near Thayer, MO

76 Photos of 127 Thayer Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Thayer, MO

293 Reviews of 127 Thayer Campgrounds

  • J
    Aug. 16, 2025

    Log Yard Campground Backcountry Camping — Ozark National Scenic Riverway

    Beautiful but not free

    Stunning views. Multiple spots. All have a picnic table and fire ring. They have a QR code on each picnic table so you can book your site through the state and pay $10 to Camp but there's no service in that area so I'm not sure how they expect us to be able to do that. There's two camping sections. One is about halfway down the road. It's grass and trees and it's across from a vault toilet and a trash bin. If you go all the way to the end of the road it rocks and sand and you're right on the water but there's no toilets or trash.

    The coordinates for this place just takes you to the start of the road not to the actual campsites. So once you get to the road just drive down it. It's not too far and car could make it.

    The only annoying thing was that when I stayed with my tent on the rocks by the water, all the way at the end, I could still hear the person at the very first campsite with RV generator humming very loudly and it took away a lot of the ambiance of the place. So it's primitive but you may not be alone.

  • J
    Aug. 13, 2025

    Noblett Lake Dispersed Camping

    Actually found it.

    Most of the sites on this app that say there's just first camping this area or wrong. They've been turned into day. Use only areas. We did find this small road with a loop at the end that have pull-in campsites. They're nothing special, some of them are overgrown. Mostly all of them don't have any kind of fire ring. Looks like nobody really ever comes out here. There's a big one at the very end of the road where the circle is. It does have a rock fire ring and it's probably the nicest one available. There was nobody here when I came so it was fun to let the dogs run.

    If you go down the road to what used to actually be the Noblett Lake campground (it is now a picnic area, no overnight camping allowed). They do have vault toilets available but they're gross.

    This road and loop is just straight primitive camping. Nothing special at all.

  • J
    Aug. 13, 2025

    Sycamore Loop Dispersed

    Not able to get in.

    Pretty much all the campsites listed in this area have been turned into day use only/ No camping here spots. The gate to go down towards this campsite was locked.

  • PThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 19, 2025

    Misty Mornings Arkansas Cabins & RV Sites

    Misty Mornings

    Great stopover. Hosts are very accommodating. I am the only camper here tonight. Very quiet. PJ'S restaurant was wonderful.

  • Brian L.
    Jul. 13, 2025

    Gamaliel

    New paved areas

    Good concrete pad. Abit short for our 36' camper. Parking available on road or grass.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 1, 2025

    Hardy Camper Park

    Convenient

    Bathrooms are scary and the sites could be improved. Don’t forget the train!

Guide to Thayer

Camping near Thayer, Missouri, offers a fantastic escape into nature with a variety of campgrounds that cater to different preferences. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there’s something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the scenic trails at Echo Bluff State Park. One visitor shared, "The hiking trails like the Signal Hill Trail and Current River Trail offer stunning vistas and the chance to encounter local wildlife."
  • Fishing: The Alley Spring Campground is a great spot for fishing. A reviewer noted, "Rocky Falls is scenic and great to cool off in the summer."
  • Canoeing and Kayaking: The Current River is perfect for water sports. As one camper mentioned, "Canoeing, kayaking, and fishing are popular activities, and the park provides easy access to the river."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness at Round Spring Campground. One review stated, "The host was great, did a nice show at the amphitheater about the local area; bathrooms and showers are great."
  • Spacious Sites: Many enjoy the roomy campsites at Big Spring Campground. A visitor remarked, "The campground is beautifully manicured and has spacious sites and many options."
  • Natural Beauty: The stunning landscapes at Gunner Pool Recreation Area are a big draw. One camper said, "This is one of the most beautiful campgrounds."

What you should know:

  • Limited Cell Service: Many campgrounds, like Missouri Alley Springs, have little to no cell service. A camper advised, "I highly recommend you take a weather radio."
  • Reservations Recommended: Popular spots like Bull Shoals-White River State Park can fill up quickly. One reviewer noted, "Reservations recommended, especially on weekends."
  • Wildlife Encounters: Be prepared for wildlife sightings. A visitor at Round Spring Campground mentioned, "You may get lucky and see otters on your way to the spring."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and swimming areas, like Crowley's Ridge State Park. A family shared, "We enjoyed the little lake and playground for the kids."
  • Pack Bug Spray: Mosquitoes can be a nuisance. One camper at Lake Charles State Park warned, "There were a significant amount of mosquitoes."
  • Plan for Meals: Bring easy-to-cook meals and snacks. A camper at Pinewoods Lake Rec Area mentioned, "Free wood laying all over the place, when the management team cut trees down they leave them there for campers to use."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Round Spring Campground noted, "I was able to get my 28' trailer in site 37 and managed to level it."
  • Bring Extra Water: Some campgrounds, like Gunner Pool Recreation Area, don’t have water hookups. A camper advised, "Bring everything. There are no stores in the camp."
  • Use Solar Power Wisely: If you’re using solar panels, be aware of tree cover. One RV owner at Big Spring Campground mentioned, "The large shading tree kept them from charging the batteries."

Camping near Thayer, Missouri, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, with plenty of activities and beautiful campgrounds to choose from. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy your time in nature!

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at Camp Thayer?

The Thayer area offers several camping options with varying amenities. Alley Spring Campground — Ozark National Scenic Riverway provides primitive camping with vault toilets, well-maintained grounds, and walking distance access to the river. The grounds are well-kept with knowledgeable staff. Nearby, Fourche Lake Rec Area features a boat launch with good road access. Most campgrounds in the area are primarily primitive, though some offer basic facilities like pit toilets and water access. Many serve as excellent bases for exploring the region's natural springs and rivers.

How can I contact Thayer property management for camping reservations?

For camping reservations near Thayer, you'll need to contact specific campgrounds directly. Big Spring Campground — Ozark National Scenic Riverway is managed by the National Park Service and can be reached through recreation.gov or the park's visitor center. Ozark Riverfront Campground has helpful staff that manage reservations and can provide assistance with bookings and river information. For most public campgrounds in the Thayer region, contact the managing agency (typically National Park Service or Forest Service) through their official websites or visitor centers for the most current reservation information.

Are there RV camping sites available at Thayer?

Yes, the Thayer area has RV camping options. Blue Spring Backcountry Camping — Ozark National Scenic Riverway accommodates RVs and allows tent camping alongside them. Spring River Oaks is big-rig friendly with water and toilet facilities. However, some locations like Rymers Backcountry Camping have narrow access roads not recommended for motorhomes over 20' or large campers due to limited turning space. When planning an RV trip to Thayer, check specific campground restrictions and access limitations in advance, as many campgrounds in this region have varying degrees of RV accessibility.

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