Camping near Van Buren
Public camping and outdoor recreation abound in Southern Missouri’s river region.
93% (1019 reviews)
- Van Buren
93% (1019 reviews)
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12 top campgrounds near Van Buren
98%
(568)
Arcadia Valley Outdoors Land
37 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents150 acres · Ironton, MO
A wooded, more private camping experience with unique site designs and natural elements. Wood-burning sauna and hot tub available for guest use.
Primitive Camping
Van/vehicle Camping
Small Trailers
Glamping
Bike Trails, Hiking, creek sit-in' on site!
Best of the midwest biking, hiking, Ozark Trail, rock climbing Elephant Rocks Park, Johnson Shut-ins and more swimming holes nearby!
Wood for sale on site, $5 per bundle, Fire starters also available.
Ask us about our "Really Good At Camping" merchandise. We have shirts, mugs & wine tumblers!
*Cash Only* at this time.
We Have free stickers!
*For camp site locations please refer to our map in the campsite listing photos.
We are located just west of the Ironton Water Works Plant and the Shepherd Mountain Lake dam. Turn right after the dam, drive through Shepherd Mountain Lake Park. If our "campground guests only" gate if it is closed, and please close gate behind you. Thank you!
No Hook Ups
No swimming in the lake and no outside boats, but we have boats for campers to use free of charge!
General Store and restroom facilities/showers coming soon!
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$25
/ night
98%
(343)
Four Creeks Campground
19 sites · RVs, Tents90 acres · Ellington, MO
Three crystal clear creeks to swim, wade, hunt rocks, or just relax. We have several tent sites right on the creeks and RV sites close for just a short walk for swimming fun.
Right on miles of ATV, OHV, SxSs or hiking trails. Close to the Black River and the Current for floating, Kayaking or fishing. Clearwater Lake for boat rentals or Jet skies. Sites to see, Blue Springs, Big Springs Johnson Shut Inns, Elephant Rock, Rocky Falls, and many state parks to explore.
We are also only three miles from the town of Ellington, MO for your shopping needs, several restaurants and antiquing.
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$20
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97%
(53)
Eminence Cottages and Camp
45 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents28 acres · Eminence, MO
Welcome to Eminence Cottages & Camp
Our Resort is perfectly located to enjoy the natural wonders that abound in this area.
Eminence Cottages and Camp is in the center of Missouri's largest national park; The Ozark National Scenic Riverways. We invite you to enjoy river fishing and canoeing, hiking and biking the famous Ozark Trail, abundant wildlife viewing, spring hopping and auto tours.
Relax in our well-appointed cottages or get close to nature in the campground. Once settled you'll be ready to float the Current or Jacks Fork River. Call to make your reservation!
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$20
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(7)
Robert's Redneck Retreat, LLC
3 sites · Lodging74 acres · Doniphan, MO
Robert's Redneck Retreat is located on about 16 acres of pasture and 58 acres of forested land with a creek and trails running through it. Our property also adjoins 1200 acres of the Mark Twain National Forest, dotted with springs, trails, rivers, lakes, ponds and breathtaking views. We have three small cabins on the property that are spaced out for privacy. There are also potential for tent camp sites.My husband and I love nature, farming, gardening, and sharing time with like-minded individuals. Our dream is small scale hobby farming adjoined with cabin rentals, allowing trees to regrow in places that were once pasture in order to do our part to help maintain habitat for wild animals and plants. It is a balance that we love and it is our pleasure to share this property with you. We are new here, but we are not new to the camping world; we have been helping campers have positive experiences since 2013 and already have over 170 positive reviews on Airbnb. We would love for Hip Campers to come experience our brand of cabin camping, with farm and forest experiences.A little history of the surrounding area: The Mark Twain National Forest was stripped by loggers in the 1800's and was purchased by the government as a preserve. Since then, it has regrown into hardwood forest, dotted with remnants of pine. It feels wild and untouched, despite knowing it's history. And within it, it harbors all manner of waterways, wildlife, plants, and fungi beyond your imagination. We love southern Missouri and hope you come catch a taste of the wildness that is the Forest. Disconnect, unplug, lose your cell signal, and come find yourself in the woods :)
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$45
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96%
(13)
Arcadia Valley BaseCamp
1 site · Tent68 acres · Arcadia, MO
BaseCamp is respite nestled into the Arcadia Valley just miles from Shepherd Mountain Bike Psrk. With nearly 70 acres surrounded by Mark Twain National Forest, there are many opportunities for hiking, botanical exploration, licensed fishing, mountain biking, equine accessible trails, and much more. There is a small pond on the property with a walking trail and a rock garden that doubles as a small creek when rains are heavy. With camping options ranging from backpacking and tent camping to van dwellers and Tiny House glamping, all are welcome. Adventure begins at Base Camp!
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$18.50
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100%
(6)
Eagles Landing Resort
6 sites · RVs7 acres · Van Buren, MO
Welcome to our campground in Van Buren, Missouri, where you can experience the beauty of the Current River and enjoy a relaxing stay in your camper or RV. Our campground offers 5 well-maintained spots with gravel pads, water, and both 30 and 50-amp electric hookups, as well as sewer hookups for your convenience.
Just a short walk away, you'll find access to a shared private gravel bar along the Current River, perfect for swimming, fishing, or simply relaxing by the water. If you're feeling adventurous, side-by-sides are welcome for exploring the area's scenic trails.
During your stay, be sure to explore the charming town of Van Buren, where you can dine at local restaurants like The Landing, Las Margaritas, or Joly Cone for delicious meals. Nearby markets, gas stations, and a Dollar General Store make shopping convenient for all your needs.
Whether you're seeking outdoor adventure or simply looking to unwind by the river, our campground in Van Buren provides the perfect setting for your next getaway. We look forward to hosting you!
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$60
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100%
(7)
Two River Ranch RV and Tent sites
1 site · RV, Tent50 acres · Alton, MO
Looking to take a step back and have a peaceful getaway? This beautiful property sits on 50 acres of seclusion and privacy. Bring your four legged friends, along with your ATV's. You can rest and relax or go exploring on several trails constructed on the property. We have four kayaks and only 5 miles from the scenic Eleven Point River boat launch and swimming hole. Roughly the same distance is Fourche Lake Recreation Area, Mark Twain National Forest. Also, we are 20 miles from the Current River, both rivers are known for trophy fishing and world class floating/rafting/boating all summer long. Just a short drive up the road is the Irish Wilderness and Mark Twain National Forest, which is ideal for hiking, hunting, mushroom foraging and photography. Don't forget your Kayak, fishing pole, ATV, horses ,and Camera! Also we have corn hole, Croquet, latter ball, and various fun competition games.
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$50
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99%
(55)
Fredrock Waterfront Glampground
20 sites · RVs33 acres · Fredericktown, MO
Fredrock is a small privately owned glampground on crystal clear 12mile Creek.
It is located about 15 minutes from the nearest town on 33 beautiful acres.
Enjoy one of the 7 themed stays or bring your own RV and stay in one of only 5 RV spots.
It is just a few minutes walk to 12 Mile Creek which runs through the property.
Enjoy the beautiful bluffs, shut-ins, gravel river beds and crystal clear water. Swimming, hiking, stargazing, and horseshoes are all available at Fredrock!
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$50
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1855 Campground
7 sites · Tents45 acres · Black, MO
LATEST NEWS: We open the 2024 season March 1st with the same wilderness adventure. Campsite 6, Bills Hill, has been improved to give you more choices to pitch you tent. This is a wilderness site, just a fire pit, sits on a ridge top in the forest, check it out. Pictures forthcoming. A big thanks for all those campers who were here for the eclipse and to Mel Eberle and Rick Kramer who brought their drumming skills to bring in the eclipse. What a special time it was. So now things have settled down to a more normal pace, quiet and peaceful. So when your busy lives get the best of you hit the pause button and come on back to step of the planet and soak in some peace and serenity. See ya here!
TIRED OF NOISEY OVER CROWDED CAMP GROUNDS, we’ll give us a try!
1855 Campground is a private natural preserve, dedicated to fostering the natural Ozark experience. We border the National Forest!! Come enjoy the outdoors at its bests! This nature space offers seven large campsites generously spaced to provide privacy and the ability to become one with nature.
JUST OPEN. A hiking trail that takes you around the property. It’s a one mile, clearly mark trail that requires a level 4, strenuous, skill. It’s free to all campers. A reminder we are 15 minutes from the Ozark Trail head located on highway A. Make 1855 Campground you base camp.
I offer 4 campsites that provides the experience in camping in the woods. Site 1, Little Brushy Creek. Site 3, Bills Hill. Site 6, Hidden Hollow, and site 7, Roberts Mountain.
Campsites 3,4,5,6, and 7 are remote wooded campsites. No vehicles are allowed to those sites so free shuttle is available upon request. When booking those sites please arrive before 8pm on the day of arrival. FYI for campsites 1 and 2 you may park at those sites so long as you don’t block the road.
This land borders the Mark Twain National Forest, so hiking is abundant and encouraged and being far away from the city this area is ideal for star gazing and planet photography. There is on-site fresh spring water flowing all year round. Enjoy fishing, swimming, or just hanging out at the pond or in the babbling brook that runs alongside the prosperity. There is also an off grid home where I live an I am willing to share my experience with you.
Just opened campsite 7! Yes a new wilderness campsite located on top of the highest hill on the prosperity. It’s borders the National Forest a like all other sites it’s very private. Only a fire pit is available. It’s a must see and experience. Those of you who like site 3, the other wilderness site, will like this. This will be a popular site!
1855 Campground is in close proximity to:
Floating activities along the Black River
Johnson Shuts State Park
Bell Mountain Hiking Trails
Elephant Rocks
Counsel Bluffs Lake
Tip Top Park
Taum Sauk State Park
Historic town of Caledonia
Clearwater Lake
Shepard Mountain bike trial
The details:
Campsites are large enough for multiple tents
All sites have fire pits and the first bundle of wood provided is included
All have BBQ grills and tables (except site 3 and 7). Bring charcoal
Outhouses and outside shower is available
Parking space provided, once check in assistance to campsite is provided
For your peace an quite no vehicles, guns or loud music allowed back in campground
1855 Campground lives by “Leave no trace Principles” take out what you bring in.
2023 season runs to Oct 2nd
Additional firewood and charcoal can be purchased at office.
Campsite fees: Weekend rate ( Friday and Saturday nights) $30/ per night per site ( 4 campers per site) children under 5 stay free.
Weekday special ( Sunday- Thursday night): 40% off! $20/ per night per site. Note: some campsite can hold more than 4 people, message Bill for more details.
Get away from the vibrations of city life and enjoy existence within the arms.
Special note to interested campers:
The office /house is open 9 to 9 daily through the season. It’s worth noting that the office/ house is “ off grid” that is it is not connected to the National electrical grid for its power. It’s been off grid for over 25 yrs. Bill, the manager, of the campground has been living full time off grid for over 8 yrs and would be willing to field question on the subject during normal business hours.
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$30
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Delightful 1 bedroom peaceful tiny house
1 site · Lodging20 acres · Salem, MO
We bought this property to enjoy our horses and cattle as well as the small animals including our rabbits , chickens , ducks , and more . We turned one of our barns into a place to have music and line dancing, however over time it turned into a perfect place for weddings and gathering events. We enjoy meeting the people who visit our farm . The sunsets behind the barn are therapeutic and soothing to the soul! Our small animals are the heart of the farm. We enjoy them and our guests are welcome to enjoy them as well. Learn more about this land:You won’t forget the peaceful surroundings of this rustic destination. Your stay with us is sure to bring you back to simplicity of life while comfortably cozy and relaxed . While TV and WiFi are available , you will find yourself content with viewing the activities of the surroundings and serene atmosphere. Just minutes away you’ll find exciting selections of activities , excellent dining , and friendly small businesses with a wide selection of interest .Guests are welcome to our venue and we encourage meeting with us to enjoy farm animals and surroundings .This is a working farm. This includes small and large farm animals .
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$89
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92%
(6)
Saco Valley Farm, LLC
4 sites · Tents28 acres · Cherokee Pass, MO
Camp, Swim, BBQ, wade the creek, enjoy the campfire!
Primitive Camping. Very Private. Water is cool and clear.
Open to the stars. A great place to commune with nature, or enjoy some peace and quiet!
12 mile creek runs directly through our property.
Shallow and deep all throughout. Great for wading, swimming, floating, kayaking. Great small mouth fishing! We are approximately one mile by water from the St. Francois River. We have kayaked down the creek to the river for many years.
The farm is very rural. We are 16 miles to the closest gas station, and 25 miles to town. There is no internet. Cell phone service is spotty at best.
Currently a working farm, we have 2 high tunnels on the property behind the house, and our original market garden.
Across the creek we are finishing up our 5 acre agroforestry planting. 3 acres of elderberries and 2 acres of blackberries.
28 acres, 3 on one side, and 25 on the other.
The farm is located approximately 2 hours south of St. Louis.
Fredericktown is 30 mins away. Food, Drinks, Golf, and Lalo's Mexican Restaurant! There are a ton of local antique shops, and outdoor activities.
Local places of interest:
Amidon
Arcadia Valley
Black River
Bonne Terre Mine
Elephant Rocks
Johnson Shut Ins
Mill Stream Gardens
One Nation Paintball Park
Sam A. Baker State Park
Saco Valley Farmstand
Sherpher Mountain Bike Park
Silvermines
Taum Sauk Mountain
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$25
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Twisted H Ranch LLC
1 site · RV120 acres · Mountain View, MO
Welcome to Twisted H Ranch, a serene 120-acre working cattle farm nestled in the heart of nature's beauty. Our campground offers 8 spacious campsites, each equipped with full-service hook-ups including sewer, water, and electricity. For your convenience, we also provide a laundry and shower house on-site, ensuring a comfortable stay year-round.
Located just 2 miles from the Upper Jack's Fork River, outdoor enthusiasts will find endless opportunities for adventure. Whether you prefer floating along the clear spring waters of the Current River or exploring scenic hiking trails, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Bring your bike and tackle our challenging loop trail, or simply unwind and observe the abundant wildlife that calls our campground home.
At Twisted H Ranch, our goal is to provide a safe and relaxing retreat where you can connect with nature and rejuvenate your spirit. Sit back, listen to the soothing sounds of the peepers, and marvel at the starry night sky. As we continue to expand our offerings, we look forward to welcoming you to our ranch and creating unforgettable memories together. Join us in 2024 as we complete our two cabins, outdoor riding arena, and horse stalls, adding even more excitement to your stay.
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$35
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Under $50
Dog-friendly getaways
Camping near Van Buren 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.
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