River Ranch Resort operates along the Elk River in southwestern Missouri, combining RV camping with float trip services during its May through September season. This private resort accommodates RVs up to 45 feet with full water and sewer hookups, while also offering primitive tent sites accessible by both vehicle and boat.
The campground caters primarily to a party-oriented crowd, particularly on weekends during peak summer months. Multiple reviewers note the late-night atmosphere can be disruptive, with one camper observing frequent security patrols and police presence. The resort designates specific areas for different camping styles, including island sites that require longer walks to restroom facilities. Site conditions vary considerably - some advertised as grassy contain mostly gravel and rocks that can damage tent floors.
Float trips run 5 or 8 miles down the Elk River, though water levels can create shallow sections requiring paddlers to walk and drag watercraft. The river contains numerous downed trees and branches that pose navigation challenges. Jason B. calls it "the best place to stay when floating the Elk River." The resort includes an on-site store, restaurant, and sand volleyball courts.
Campers seeking quieter alternatives can explore options like Two Sons Floats & Camping for a different riverside experience.
Description
Located along the Elk River in Southwest Missouri, River Ranch offers different selections of camping areas. For those searching for a more private space, primitive tent camping is available. Electric tent camping is also available for those requiring electricity. River Ranch camping is also RV camping friendly as well.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
RV ParkRiver Ranch Resort is located in Missouri
Directions
From jct Hwy-90 & Hwy-59: Go 100 yards N on Hwy-59.
Address
101 River Road
Noel, MO 64854
Coordinates
36.55096094 N
94.49318097 W
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent Coverage
- VerizonLTESome Coverage
- AT&T5GGood CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 4/25/26
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent Coverage
- VerizonLTESome Coverage
- AT&T5GGood CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 4/25/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
- Cabins
Features
For Campers
- Market
- ADA Access
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- WiFi
- Showers
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Sewer Hookups
- Water Hookups
- 50 Amp Hookups
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 47 min from Joplin, MO
- 50 min from Fayetteville, AR
- 1 hr 35 min from Springfield, MO
- 1 hr 36 min from Tulsa, OK








