A-frames near Van Buren with hiking
Public camping and outdoor recreation abound in Southern Missouri’s river region.
- Van Buren
Popular camping styles for Van Buren
A-frames near Van Buren with hiking guide
Overview
The rivers in southeast Missouri are so spectacularly beautiful they were the first to be designated as national scenic riverways in 1964. Thanks to plentiful springs and natural landscapes along the shores, the Current and Jacks Fork rivers offer prime floating and fishing waters. The town of Van Buren is a perfect home base for exploring all that the region offers. Several private RV parks are located here, offering amenities like family activities, free wifi, and full hookups. Public camping abounds across the area.
Where to go
Ozark National Scenic Riverways
Though the clear waters of the Current and Jacks Fork rivers form the basis of this national park, the Ozark National Scenic Riverways protects much more than the rivers. The region is home to historic mills, caves, architectural ruins, and scenic landscapes. Hiking, fishing, horseback riding, and more can be enjoyed. The National Park Service offers public camping at Big Spring Campground, with both basic and electric sites available for tents and RVs. Glamping rentals can be found across the region.
Mark Twain National Forest
The Mark Twain National Forest covers 1.5 million acres in Missouri, protecting woodlands and waterways. This outdoor playground is home to hiking, biking, and equestrian trails, as well as prime locations for fishing and paddling. Near Van Buren, public camping is available at Pinewoods Lake Campground and Watercress Recreation Area, both of which have tent and RV sites with no hookups. In the surrounding area, as many as a dozen national forest campgrounds can be found.
Echo Bluff State Park
One of the Missouri State Park system’s newest developed parks, Echo Bluff offers a comfortable spot for exploring this region, starting with Sinking Creek, which runs through the park. Located just under an hour northwest of Van Buren, Echo Bluff has a modern campground with full hookups, concrete pads, free wifi, and more. Venture into the woods to find deluxe tent sites with camping decks. The park also offers cabins and a full-service lodge.
Clearwater Lake
Northeast of Van Buren, Clearwater Lake is another hub for camping and recreation. A number of private RV parks can be found nearby, as well as public campgrounds operated by the Army Corps of Engineers.
When to go
Summertime is river time in the Ozarks. The waters are bustling with canoes, kayaks, and tubes, especially on weekends. The weather will be hot and humid, but the rivers are refreshing. Spring and fall are scenic, with pleasant weather. The Ozark hills are especially delightful in the fall as they erupt in autumnal colors. Camping is generally not popular in the winter due to freezing temperatures, but some visitors appreciate the solitude and starkness at this time of year.
