The Eleven Point River corridor shapes equestrian camping near Thayer, Missouri. The area features primitive camping within the Mark Twain National Forest, with several access points along Missouri Highway 19. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F, while spring and fall provide milder conditions for outdoor activities.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Greer Crossing, visitors can fish directly from camp. "We have our family reunion here and it is beautiful, has a great boat dock and swimming area and for the brave of heart at times you can jump off the bridge," notes Glen T.
Explore springs: Turner's Mill provides access to natural springs with crystal clear water. Jared G. describes the area as having "mill and springs [that] are soothing and crystal clear. The river is shallow enough to wade across and cool off in."
Wilderness hiking: The Irish Wilderness offers extended backcountry experiences. Tony R. advises, "Plan around hitting the two springs on both legs of the 20 mile loop. car camping available at the camp 5 pond trailhead (no water available). BRING A GPS! The trail is very easy to lose."
What campers like
River proximity: Boze Mill Float Camp offers sites directly adjacent to the Eleven Point River. William M. notes it has "Several dedicated camp sites that each have fire ring, shepherds hook, picnic table. There is one pit toilet building. There is a beautiful blue spring coming out of the bottom of a pool formerly used to power Boze Mill."
Ease of water access: Richard's Canoe Rental & Campground provides convenient launch points. Stephanie W. explains, "We stayed here to utilize their shuttle services for kayaking the 11 point. The convince of having your own vehicle waiting for you after a long day of floating is worth every dime you pay for it!"
Natural water features: Campers consistently mention the natural springs and river access points. Ashley W. calls Turner's Mill an "Awesome mill you can climb on and awesome spring that makes individual pools."
What you should know
Primitive facilities: Most campgrounds offer basic amenities only. At Whitten Access, Glen T. notes it's "a great place to take out from the river, has a really good boat dock and great fishing" but facilities are minimal.
Trail navigation challenges: When hiking in Irish Wilderness, trail markings can be inadequate. Tony R. warns the "trail is very easy to lose and after 20+ miles you'll want the comfort of knowing where you have been/are going!"
Seasonal considerations: Most river-based activities are weather dependent. Clayton R. mentions Greer Crossing costs "$12 dollars a night buut theres a free campsite just north of there," providing options for different budgets.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming locations: Bidwell Point Park offers family-friendly water access. Valerie D. reports, "We stayed here for a week! We loved it! Nice and beautiful view over the water! Very clean!"
Campground host support: At Greer Crossing, Stephanie U. notes, "Well kept campgrounds, and restrooms!! Best I've seen around!! lots of shade and parking, camp host does a AMAZING JOB!!"
Consider skill levels: For float trips with children, assess difficulty first. Elisha P. recommends regarding Eleven Point River, "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."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Riverbend, RV amenities include water and electric hookups. Glen T. mentions "You can rent or buy spots, has pool shower houses, great fishing, great for floating in tubes canoeing or kayak."
Limited big rig access: Most campgrounds near Thayer cannot accommodate large RVs. Bidwell Point is one exception with Chris A. noting, "Site was a little hard to get into and a little tight with the pavillion there providing the only shade."
Water depth awareness: For RVers using boat launches, water levels fluctuate seasonally. N I. warns about Bidwell Point Park: "Reservations only and if there has been a lot of rain some sites could be under water."
