7 campgrounds with availability this weekend
Big Spring Campground permits pets throughout its established campsites along the Current River in Van Buren, Missouri. This National Park Service property offers 29 electric sites with level pads, picnic tables, and fire rings where dogs can accompany their owners. Nearby, Ozark Riverfront Campground (formerly Van Buren Campground) accommodates pets at its riverside tent sites and RV spaces with electric hookups. The gravel RV section provides shade trees, while the tent area sits closer to the water. Current River Campground allows pets at its full hookup RV sites, tent areas, and pet-friendly cabins. Most campgrounds require pets to remain leashed at all times outside accommodations. The tent grounds are comfortable with ground that isn't rocky, making it easier on pets' paws during extended stays.
Mark Twain National Forest's Watercress Recreation Area offers 17 pet-friendly campsites along the Current River's emerald green waters. Dogs can cool off in the river under supervision, though the current can be strong in certain areas. Hiking opportunities include the 1.2-mile Songbird Trail leading to Watercress Spring, suitable for leashed pets. Big Spring—Missouri's largest—provides additional trails where dogs can join hikers. Campers with pets should prepare for limited services; some campgrounds have vault toilets only, while others offer shower facilities. Most sites operate seasonally, with Watercress open May through October. Pet owners should pack plenty of water and waste bags, as facilities may be basic. The small town of Van Buren provides limited emergency services, though veterinary options are scarce in this rural area.
"Big Spring Campgrounds near Van Buren, MO is still being renovated after the flood in 2017. That being said porta pots are in evidence but they were clean. The showerhouse is crowded and old."
"For Labor Day we stayed at Big Spring State Park CG, near Van Buren, Missouri which is part of the Ozark National Scenic Riverways. "
Available this weekend
from $50 / night
"Stopped here while passing through Missouri on a Saturday on 4th of July weekend and there were only 3 other campers when we arrived late afternoon."
"There are two (nice & clean) vault toilets, one in the campground near the entrance and the other at the day use/boat launch site, no electric, water, dumpster or garbage."
from $15 - $50 / night
"There must be an ATV trail close by because Sunday evening we had about 20 side-by-side show up to hang out by the river all in all just a great place"
"This area has access to the shores of the current river. No campsites, just the open rocky shores. You can park right on the shores and set up camp. Beware!"
"Right off the Current River, walking distant to downtown Van Buren."
"****Van Buren, MO is in the midst of to the Ozark National Scenic Riverway."
"Sweet place to camp and so close to the river. My kids and I loved it! Comfortable ,but no RV hook ups."
from $10 - $25 / night
"Chose this location to be our hub while completing a Missouri springs tour. Visited 8 springs in total. Checked out the camping facilities at every spring that offered camping."
"At this campground you have walking distance access to the river and a rental place nearby. Check out the Alley Mill while your there."
Available this weekend
from $50 / night
"We stayed right next to the beach in site A15. Spot was lacking shade but made up for it with the view."
"Very easy to drive to and plenty of parking! Definitely recommend and would stay here again!"
Campground full this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $14 - $50 / night
"Only site 3 has direct access to the river with a view, but we just walked down behind the site to the water. The trail to Blue Spring was rough."
"If you want to do some stargazing, you cannot find a much better place in Missouri than the Power Mill Campground. It is an NPS site so it very well maintained."
"Water moves a bit faster than most of the floating rivers/creeks in Missouri. Expect about 3-3.5 mph. Plenty of places to disperse camp between Tan Vat, down to Two Rivers Landing."
"The water was crystal clear, and the surrounding nature was breathtaking. We encountered some gentle rapids, which added a thrill to the journey without being too challenging for novices like us."
GuideIt's off grid, quiet, and free. Not many spots and it looked like a couple of people had been there a while but everyone kept to themselves and I got a good night's sleep. This isn't luxury and there are no hookups. It's a great getaway for some solitude and to untether from the rest of the world.
GuideLarge gravel turnaround half mile off of state road 142. No services, just a flat level surface. Some road nose from highway 67 and state road 142. Good for cheap overnight stay. Not a destination. Access road is maintained. parking is secluded.
TravelerWhat a magical surprise! Put in 4lo and cross the river and this place opens up to a magical paradise. Sandy beaches, swimming holes, easy to get beyond site of the hwy. I would have never looked here had it not been for this app, and this site is so good I almost don’t want to post up- but this site worth sharing- There was a little trash but all picked up now, I hope it’s still clean when I for sure come back. ;)
TravelerTent to electric to full hookups available. multiple shower toilet facilities throughout campground. All sites with nice concrete parking pad.
ScoutWe stayed at Broken Arrow Campground in Eminence, MO just after peak season. This location was perfect due to the fact we were kayaking about 7 miles of the Jacks Fork River. We started at Alley Springs and pulled out at Broken Arrow Campground.
The campground could use some TLC, but you can quickly tell by the cheaper rates that it is more of a party campground in the summer months. The bathrooms work (bring your own TP), electric and water worked, and the sites have plenty of shade. There are a few walnut trees so be careful where you set your camp in the early fall months.
Is the place a little rough? sure, but it's priced reasonably...and you're camping. We will stay here again.
TravelerThe camp sites are full hook up with good size lots. Lots of room for dogs to run. They have hiking trails, lake for paddle boarding or kayaks( free to use on site), mini golf( have to supply own balls they have putters) 9 hole golf course,and Disc golf. The pool and shower house with game rooms are clean and showers open 24/7. Grounds keepers go a fantastic job
TravelerGreat camping, gracious host combined with the natural beauty of Mammoth Spring, if I wanted to, I could live here 9 months out the year.
TravelerWhat a wonderful place to venture to with a young family. The people that run the campground are beyond generous and go above and beyond to make you feel welcome. The farm animals were a huge hit with the kids and they loved petting and feeding them. We will surely be back!
TravelerThe road leading in had downed trees that were cut back, the road itself was tolerable for my 2 wheel drive dodge journey. Some of the sites were grown over but one a few sites were usable with fire rings. Wood in the area was mostly dead. There was a decent area for us to put the tent out. Overall a good stay.
Dispersed camping options near Van Buren, Missouri provide access to the Ozark National Scenic Riverways where the Current River flows through a valley at approximately 450 feet elevation. The region experiences humid summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F from June through August, while winter lows regularly drop below freezing. Seasonal flooding can affect camping areas, particularly during spring months when rainfall is highest.
Riverside hiking trails: Near Watercress Recreation Area, the 1.2-mile Songbird Trail leads to Watercress Spring and passes Civil War earthworks. "You will find the Songbird Trail for hiking 1.2 miles long to the Watercress Spring. You will even run across a Civil War earthworks on the trail," notes one visitor.
Float trips: The Current River's consistent flow rate makes it suitable for novice paddlers, with most sections moving at approximately 3-3.5 mph. At Current River Recreation Area, "The water was crystal clear, and the surrounding nature was breathtaking. We encountered some gentle rapids, which added a thrill to the journey without being too challenging for novices like us," reports Chelsea G.
Fishing opportunities: The river systems support multiple fish species accessible from shore or boat. "While on the river drop a line to try your hand at fishing. Catfish, sunfish, bass and walleye" are commonly caught according to experienced anglers visiting the area.
Spring viewing: Missouri's largest spring is accessible via short trails with interpretive signage. A visitor to Big Spring Campground noted, "The Big Spring is awe inspiring and this is a perfect place to stay to see it. Nice quiet and yet lively. Plenty of deadfall if you're not looking to buy firewood."
Level campsites: Many established campgrounds feature improved tent pads that remain comfortable in various weather conditions. At Pinewoods Lake Rec Area, "Sites are well spaced out and most are level. It's been almost empty every time we have been there. Very pretty in the fall with the colors along the lake," according to Chenoa B.
Winter camping access: Unlike some regional facilities that close seasonally, several campgrounds remain open year-round. "Came here for a solo winter camping trip with my dog. It was really nice. The spring was beautiful and the campsites and amenities were very well kept," shares Kristin A. about her off-season experience.
Flood risks: Campgrounds near the Current River may require evacuation during heavy rainfall periods. "If the creek comes up, you may not be able to cross it again. There is one good established campsite at this location and 2 not so good ones. The area changes after a flood, and the campsites have to be reestablished," warns Joseph A. about Log Yard Campground.
Varied toilet facilities: Bathroom amenities range from modern facilities to primitive options depending on location. "Some sites have more shade than others. Also a group site is available. There is one flush toilet in the first campground loop, the other two loops have porta pots," reports one camper.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Van Buren, MO?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Van Buren, MO is Big Spring Campground — Ozark National Scenic Riverway with a 4.5-star rating from 26 reviews.
What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Van Buren, MO?
TheDyrt.com has all 116 dog-friendly camping locations near Van Buren, MO, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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