Camping spots near Winona, Missouri center around the Eleven Point River system, which features clear water at a consistent 58°F year-round from the numerous springs feeding it. Most campgrounds in this region sit at elevations between 600-800 feet, with terrain characterized by limestone bluffs, dense oak-hickory forests, and karst topography. Local flooding typically occurs from March through May when rainfall averages 4-5 inches monthly.
What to do
Cave exploration: 1-mile hike to access. At Round Spring Campground, visitors can tour an impressive cave system during summer months. "Tours of the cave are given daily June through August and cost $5. The lantern tours show an amazing cave with many beautiful formations," notes Marty C. The cave entrance is accessible via a short trail from the campground.
Smallmouth bass fishing: Early morning best. The Current River and Eleven Point River systems provide excellent fishing opportunities. "The Current river provides some of the best canoeing anywhere in America as well as good fishing for Smallmouth Bass," according to one Round Spring Campground visitor. Most successful fishing happens at dawn or dusk when water traffic is minimal.
Wildlife viewing: Bring binoculars. Big Spring Campground offers opportunities to spot diverse wildlife including otters and eagles. "We saw a bald eagle and a very curious little otter down by the river," shares Theresa H. Morning hours provide the best viewing conditions when animals are most active.
What campers like
Accessible swimming spots: Multiple entry points. The rivers around Log Yard Campground offer excellent swimming opportunities with natural rocky beaches. "This place is like a hidden treasure. lots of space on the bank to have privacy from other campers, the river was blue and super pretty," says Malayna F. Most swimming areas feature gradual entries with pebble or sand bottoms.
Stargazing: Minimal light pollution. Several campgrounds in the region offer excellent night sky viewing due to their distance from major cities. At Log Yard Campground, campers report exceptional star viewing. "Plenty of stars out at night," mentions one visitor. The best viewing typically occurs after 10pm when the sky is fully dark.
Trail connectivity: Multiple options. Alley Spring Campground provides access to numerous hiking opportunities. "Very short drive to get to the spring & mill. Wouldn't call it a 'hike' but a very nice path to take a stroll on a loop at the mill," notes John B. Many trails interconnect, allowing for routes ranging from 0.5 to 8 miles.
What you should know
Limited connectivity: Plan accordingly. Cell service throughout the region ranges from spotty to non-existent, especially in river valleys. "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," advises Lea B. about Round Spring Campground. Download maps offline before arriving.
Creek crossing hazards: Check conditions. Some campgrounds require traversing low-water crossings that can become dangerous after rainfall. At Log Yard Campground, "You have to cross a creek to get to this location. If the weather moves in, it would be wise to pack up and move out while you can. If the creek comes up, you may not be able to cross it again," warns Joseph A.
Boat traffic considerations: Weekends busier. Riverside campsites often experience noise from motorized boats, particularly on summer weekends. "This stretch of the current is 25-hp boat territory. There will be boat traffic on the river on the weekends," mentions Joseph A. about Log Yard. Weekday camping typically offers a quieter experience.
Tips for camping with families
Water safety: Life jackets essential. The rivers can have unexpected currents despite their calm appearance. At Greer Crossing Recreation Area, one camper notes, "It has a great boat dock and swimming area and for the brave of heart at times you can jump off the bridge." Always supervise children near water and bring personal flotation devices.
Educational opportunities: Ranger programs. Several campgrounds offer interpretive programs during summer months. "The host was great did a nice show at the amphitheater about the local area," shares Jeff A. about Round Spring Campground. Programs typically run between Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends.
Reliable facilities: Important with children. Clean restrooms make family camping more manageable. At Greer Crossing, campers appreciate the "Well kept campgrounds, and restrooms!! Best I've seen around!!" according to Stephanie U. Most campgrounds with flush toilets also provide changing tables in at least one restroom.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Reserve early. Many campgrounds have limited large sites. At Timbuktu Campground in Echo Bluff State Park, "The RV and tent spots all looked mostly level," notes Theresa H. However, another camper warns, "You need to reserve your side months in advance because this campground is so popular."
Hookup variations: Plan water usage. Electric sites are available at several campgrounds, but full hookups are less common. At Harveys Circle B Campground, "We stayed in our RV on a spot with river view. Was really nice! Site 148 has standing water when it rains," shares Laura. Most RV sites accommodate units up to 32 feet, with limited availability for larger rigs.
Dump station locations: Limited options. Not all campgrounds provide dump stations. One visitor to Alley Springs notes, "The campground has a shower house, restrooms, RV dump station, electric and water hookups, picnic tables and fire rings." Plan your tank usage accordingly as the next nearest dump station may be 20+ miles away.
