Watercress
4.5918 reviews1420 Maud St., Poplar Bluff, MO 63901, USA
Watercress
$10.00 - $25.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$10.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$25.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Camping fees range from $10 to $25 depending on the site type. Group picnic shelters cost $25 per day. Additional fees may apply for reservation services and late cancellations.
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Recreation.govProvider
About this campground
Nestled along the crystal-clear waters of the Current River, Watercress Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts to discover one of Mark Twain National Forest's hidden gems. This riverside retreat features 17 thoughtfully spaced campsites that welcome both tent campers and RV travelers, each offering a perfect basecamp for adventures on the water. Whether you're paddling through morning mist, casting a line into the river's gentle currents, or simply listening to the water's melody from your campsite, Watercress provides an authentic Ozark experience where the river sets the rhythm of your days.
Watercress Campground supports tent and RV camping, as well as group picnic shelters. User review: "It's primitive camping, which is not for everyone, of course."
Historical SignificanceHistory whispers through the trees along the Songbird Trail, where Civil War earthworks stand as silent sentinels above the Current River. These weathered fortifications tell stories of a divided nation, when soldiers once gazed upon the same river views that now inspire peaceful reflection. Walking this trail connects modern adventurers to the complex heritage of the Ozarks, where natural beauty has witnessed centuries of human drama.
Weather and SeasonsFrom May through October, Watercress Campground comes alive under Missouri's most inviting skies. Summer days bring warm sunshine perfect for river activities, while cool evenings invite campfire gatherings under star-filled skies. Spring and fall paint the forest in vibrant colors, offering moderate temperatures ideal for hiking and exploration. Winter transforms the landscape into a quiet wonderland, though most visitors prefer the comfort of warmer months when the Current River sparkles its brightest.
Natural Features and SceneryWatercress Campground showcases nature's artistry at every turn, where towering limestone bluffs rise dramatically from the Current River's edge. Hidden springs bubble up from mysterious depths, feeding the river with cool, clear water that has carved spectacular caves into the ancient rock. This diverse ecosystem attracts an impressive array of wildlife – from graceful herons stalking the shallows to songbirds filling the forest canopy with their melodies. Each bend in the river reveals new wonders, creating an ever-changing canvas of natural beauty that transforms simple camping into an immersive wilderness experience.
Geological RegionSet within the vast expanse of Mark Twain National Forest, Watercress Campground occupies a geological wonderland where the Current River has spent millennia sculpting southeastern Missouri's distinctive karst landscape. Dramatic limestone bluffs tower above the water, their faces telling stories written in stone over millions of years. Natural springs emerge from hidden underground passages, while mysterious caves invite exploration into the earth's depths. This remarkable terrain represents the heart of the Ozark Plateau, where ancient geology creates a playground for modern adventurers.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible vault toilets are provided year-round in the day-use area. Additional accessibility features are not mentioned.
Sites SizeUser reviews suggest fairly large campsites: "The campground is back open and each plot is fairly large and cleaned of debris."
Sites PrivacyPrivacy level is unclear from official sources and user reviews.
Total Campsites17 campsites
Recommended CampsitesOpt for riverside sites for better views and easier water access.
Best CampsitesNo specific campsites are noted as best in the available sources.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Groups
Two group picnic shelters are available, each accommodating up to 75 people, equipped with tables and grills.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features 17 individual sites arranged alongside the river, with group picnic shelters located at the northern end.
Open and Closed SeasonCampground open from May 1 to October 1. Day use areas and boat ramp available year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov and its associated mobile app.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll 17 campsites are first-come, first-served. Walk-up availability may vary during the peak season.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations incur a $10 fee, and late cancellations forfeit the first night's recreation use fee. Modifications outside the original reservation dates require a $10 change 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
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Watercress Campground offers a range of activities including fishing, boating, canoeing, hiking, and picnicking. "Boating and canoeing on the Current River, as well as on other nearby rivers, are popular activities. Anglers enjoy fishing for bass, walleye, sunfish, and the occasional catfish." "Hikers at Watercress area enjoy the Songbird Trail, a 1.2-mile loop that leads to Watercress Spring, passing remnants of Civil War-era earthwork."
Hiking
The Songbird Trail is a 1.2-mile loop leading to Watercress Spring and passing Civil War-era earthwork overlooking the Current River. The trail is described as a quick nature hike with easy access to local features.Fishing
Fishing opportunities include bass, walleye, sunfish, and occasional catfish. Anglers can fish in the Current River and other nearby rivers.Swimming
Swimming is a common activity at multiple swim areas near the river. User review: "The river access is perfect and there is multiple swim areas."Boating
A boat ramp is available for both motorized and non-motorized boats on the east bank of the Current River. Canoeing and floating on the river are popular activities.Wildlife viewing
Birds and wildlife are abundant in the area, offering opportunities for observation along the river and trails.Winter Activities
The campground is closed during winter months, limiting recreational activities during that time. Accessible vault toilets and the day-use area remain open.Water Sports
Activities include canoeing, boating, and floating on the Current River.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed but must comply with local regulations. Firewood sourced from outside the area is prohibited to prevent invasive species.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife encounters, river currents, and seasonal flooding risks.
Active alertsThe campground sustained damage during the 2017 flood; some areas remain closed, including pavilions.
Weather forecast
77
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 45%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 6.8 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
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 are located in Van Buren for basic needs. For more advanced care, Poplar Bluff (~40 miles away) offers hospitals and police services.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 1 to October 31.
Trash and recyclingA seasonal trash collection dumpster is available between April 1 and October 1 at the campground entrance.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly adjacent to the Current River, with boat ramps and swim areas available.
Common complaintsUser reviews highlight issues such as debris from flooding, lack of electric hookups, and homeless individuals occupying certain areas.
HostReviews identify camp hosts Alfred and Carolyn as extremely helpful, assisting campers with gear transportation and site arrangements.
Campground Map
1420 Maud St., Poplar Bluff, MO 63901, USA
Driving directionsFrom Highway 60, drive north on Main Street to the National Park Service sign on Watercress Road. Turn north and drive just past the Park Service building complex, then make a left to Watercress Recreation Area. The picnic shelters are on the left toward the north end of the day use area.
The campground is within one mile of Highway 60, making it easily accessible. The terrain is described as heavily wooded, providing some seclusion from traffic noise.Nearby places
Van Buren (adjacent), Poplar Bluff (~40 miles, ~45 minutes), Doniphan (~25 miles, ~30 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Van Buren provides access to groceries, camping supplies, and fuel. Poplar Bluff offers larger stores and advanced shopping facilities.
Camper Reviews
4.6
18 reviews
Watercress is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's proximity to the river, its scenic views, and recreational opportunities. There are conflicting opinions about maintenance and amenities post-2017 flood.
Review Summaries
Based on 18 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciate the campground's beauty, river access, affordable fees, and helpful camp hosts. "The river access is perfect... plenty of picnic tables... showers and bathrooms." "It's primitive...
Based on 18 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include post-flood damage, lack of amenities like showers and electricity, and trash left by visitors: "The place is a shell of what it used to be." "Unfortunately, I was compelled to pick...
Based on 18 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own firewood as external firewood is prohibited. Consider visiting in peak season for full amenities, but avoid winter closures. Group sites can be reserved for larger gatherings.
Based on 18 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Winter closures limit usability, though day-use areas remain accessible. Summer offers full amenities but may experience trash issues due to high traffic. Spring and fall are recommended for pleasant...
Based on 18 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Absolutely love love love this campground." "Since the flood, the Forest Service has let this park go." "Homeless living in the back loop, trash everywhere..." "The camp hosts were phenomenal and...
Based on 18 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Some users note specific issues with certain areas, such as trash in the back loop. User review: "Drunk people walked into my camp belligerent..."
Based on 18 reviewsAccessibility Features
Vault toilets are accessible year-round. No further accessibility features are mentioned.
Based on 18 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are not explicitly mentioned in user reviews or official sources.
Based on 18 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025