Bluff View(Clearwater Lake)
4.2374 reviews93 Hwy AA, PIEDMONT, MO 63957, USA
Bluff View(Clearwater Lake)
$14.00 - $50.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$16.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$50.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $14 for standard non-electric sites to $50 for group shelter electric sites during peak season. Discounts may apply for holders of Interagency Senior and Access passes.
About this campground
Nestled along the shores of crystal-clear Clearwater Lake, Bluff View Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of natural splendor and modern comfort. Whether you're casting a line at dawn, diving into refreshing waters on a summer afternoon, or gathering around the campfire under starlit skies, this beloved destination offers something for every adventurer. The campground seamlessly combines the rugged beauty of the Ozarks with thoughtful amenities including electric and water hookups, rejuvenating hot showers, and convenient boat launch facilities, ensuring your wilderness escape doesn't mean sacrificing comfort.
Bluff View Campground includes options for tent camping, RV camping, and group shelters.
Historical SignificanceBeyond the campground's natural allure lies a region steeped in American heritage. History buffs can explore the nearby Civil War site at Fort Benton, where echoes of the past whisper through preserved battlegrounds. For a taste of classic Americana, catch a double feature at one of the area's nostalgic drive-in theaters, or test your skills on local golf courses carved into the rolling Ozark landscape. The crown jewel of nearby attractions, Sam A. Baker State Park, offers additional trails and natural wonders waiting to be discovered.
Weather and SeasonsSpring arrives gently at Bluff View, with March temperatures dancing between a crisp 33°F at dawn and a pleasant 59°F by afternoon—perfect for hiking without the summer crowds. As summer unfolds, the campground truly comes alive, with temperatures climbing to a balmy 65-92°F, creating ideal conditions for swimming and water sports. Throughout the camping season, visitors are treated to predominantly clear skies and gentle breezes, making nearly every week a weather-friendly opportunity to explore this outdoor paradise.
ElevationPerched at the characteristic elevation of the Missouri Ozarks, Bluff View offers the perfect vantage point for experiencing the region's rolling hills and verdant valleys.
Natural Features and SceneryThe campground's stunning Ozark setting creates a natural amphitheater of beauty, where ancient hills cradle the pristine waters below. Fed by the legendary Black River, the landscape transforms with each season, painting the hillsides in vibrant greens, fiery autumnal hues, and serene winter whites. Wildlife enthusiasts will find themselves in paradise—majestic bald eagles soar overhead, white-tailed deer emerge at twilight to graze in meadows, wild turkeys strut through the underbrush, and graceful geese glide across the water's surface, creating unforgettable moments for photographers and nature lovers alike.
Geological RegionBluff View Campground sits proudly within the ancient Ozark Mountains, a geological wonderland where time has sculpted dramatic hills and valleys over millions of years. The life-giving Black River winds through this timeless landscape, its waters having carved spectacular bluffs and gentle beaches that define the campground's character. This unique geological setting creates diverse ecosystems and microclimates that support the area's rich biodiversity and offer visitors a true immersion in one of Missouri's most treasured natural regions.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are limited. No specific reviews from users with disabilities were found.
Sites SizeSites range from standard electric and non-electric options to group shelter electric sites. "Spacious lots..." (Richard A., 7/19/2020).
Sites PrivacySites are generally well-spaced and offer a good degree of privacy. "Campsites are quite spacious with covered picnic tables." (Selene E., 7/22/2023).
Total Campsites60 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite B16 is highly rated for its shade and level ground. Sites in B loop generally offer scenic views and ample space.
Best CampsitesSites in Loop B are noted for shade, spaciousness, and proximity to the playground.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Official check-in time is not explicitly stated.
Check-out
Official check-out time is not explicitly stated.
Stay Limit
Maximum 14 consecutive nights during a visit and no more than 14 nights total within rolling 30 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 10 people per site. Site occupancy limited to either two tents or one wheeled unit and one tent.
Groups
Group shelter electric sites can accommodate larger parties but exact capacities are not documented.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into loops (A, B, C, D) with varying proximity to amenities such as water stations and bathrooms.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 15 to September 14 (peak season).
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov website, mobile app, or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityCampsites are first-come, first-served outside of peak season.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before the check-in date, with a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations incur additional penalties, including forfeiture of the first night's recreation use fee.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Bluff View Campground offers a mix of recreational activities including hiking, fishing, swimming, and boating. Wildlife viewing is also notable.
Hiking
The Bluff View Nature Trail begins at the campground, offering a loop trail among hardwood trees. "A wonderful trail to look for wildlife..." (Official Source).Fishing
Fishing opportunities are excellent, with access to Clearwater Lake. "Great place, spacious lots, beautiful view, and the lake was fun to kayak up the river." (Richard A., 7/19/2020).Swimming
The campground features a designated swimming area with a soft sand beach. Some users feel the swimming area is small. "The swimming area is a bit small." (Christine D., 7/3/2023).Boating
Boating is a popular activity, supported by a marina and boat ramp. "Great to kayak...lake to the river." (Richard A., 7/19/2020).Wildlife viewing
Campers frequently see wildlife such as deer, turkey, geese, and bald eagles. "Loved seeing deer and turkey." (Kenneth H., 8/1/2022).Beach activities
Activities include swimming and sunbathing on the soft sand beach. "A soft sand 'beach' with a nice swimming area." (Selene E., 7/22/2023).Cultural and Educational Programs
The campground features an interpretive trail, adding an educational aspect to hiking.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities mentioned.Water Sports
Kayaking and canoeing are popular water sports, with good access to Clearwater Lake.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Firewood restrictions require purchasing locally to prevent invasive pest spread. Campfires allowed within designated rings.
- Quiet hours are from 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsGoose droppings and high grass may pose cleanliness challenges. Wildlife encounters with geese, deer, and turkeys are common.
Weather forecast
68
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 50%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 4.6 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services closest to the campground include Clearwater Project Office with contact number 573-223-7777 and Bluff View Gatehouse at 573-223-4459.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 15 to September 14.
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities exist but could be improved. "No trash bin at the dump station...you have to drive back through the campground to drop off your trash." (Brian B., 8/11/2023).
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is adjacent to Clearwater Lake, which offers fishing, swimming, and boating opportunities.
Common complaintsUser reviews mention issues such as lack of cell service, one dump station for all sites, high grass, and limited shower facilities.
HostUser reviews consistently praise campground hosts for being accommodating and maintaining cleanliness in the campground.
Campground Map
93 Hwy AA, PIEDMONT, MO 63957, USA
Driving directionsFrom Piedmont on Highway 49, go 1 mile to Highway AA and turn left. Drive 6 miles on Highway AA, and the road will end in Bluff View Park.
Accessible via paved Highway AA. No mention of seasonal closures or challenging terrain.Nearby places
Piedmont (7 miles, approximately 15 minutes)
Nearby supplies
For groceries and camping supplies, visitors may need to travel to Piedmont, 7 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.2
74 reviews
Bluff View(Clearwater Lake) is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, user reviews for Bluff View Campground are mixed. Common positive themes include cleanliness, scenic views, and well-maintained amenities. Negative themes often mention issues with bathroom facilities, cell phone service, and maintenance.
Review Summaries
Based on 74 reviews
What Campers Love
"Very clean shower house." (Penny B., 6/20/2020), "Beautiful campground with spacious sites and lake views." (Richard A., 7/19/2020).
Based on 74 reviewsCommon Concerns
"One bathhouse for the entire campground...only two showers." (Brian B., 8/11/2023), "Cell service was unavailable for AT&T and minimal for Verizon users." (Laura P., 6/14/2021).
Based on 74 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your water containers as water may not be available directly at your site. "We took our 6-gallon containers to fill from a spigot 30 yards away." (John G., 6/28/2021).
Based on 74 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer reviews are generally positive but feature complaints about high grass and maintenance issues. Winter reviews highlight fewer activities but emphasize the campground's peaceful atmosphere.
Based on 74 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Loved seeing deer and turkey." (Kenneth H., 8/1/2022), "Spacious lots with covered picnic tables." (Selene E., 7/22/2023).
Based on 74 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site B16 is shaded all day long and close to the playground. "An all-around wonderful park." (Zach L., 7/11/2021).
Based on 74 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Mixed feedback on pet policies. "Lots of bad dog owners...constant barking and off-leash dogs." (Shannon L., 7/2/2023).
Based on 74 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025