Akers
4.2314 reviewsHCR 1 Box 455, JADWIN, MO, 65501, USA
Akers
$25.00 - $65.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$65.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Group tent area rates are $65 during peak season (April 15 – October 15) and $25 during non-peak season (October 16 – December 31). Fees may vary by date and do not include discounts, taxes, or incremental charges.
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine Current River, Akers Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts to experience the heart of Missouri's natural playground. This group camping haven serves as your gateway to unforgettable river adventures, where lazy afternoons spent floating in tubes give way to exhilarating canoe journeys through scenic waterways. Anglers cast their lines in waters teeming with smallmouth bass while hidden caves and vibrant forest trails promise discovery around every bend.
Akers Campground specializes in group tent-only camping with primitive facilities.
Historical SignificanceYour stay at Akers places you within the storied Ozark National Scenic Riverways, where echoes of the past blend seamlessly with natural wonders. The nearby Alley Mill stands as a testament to the region's milling heritage, its weathered timbers telling tales of generations past. Just upstream, Alley Spring bubbles forth with crystal-clear waters that have sustained communities for centuries. During summer months, the mysterious chambers of Round Spring Cave open their doors to guided tours, inviting visitors to explore underground worlds carved by time itself.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Akers Campground with its own distinctive palette. Spring through fall unveils the campground at its finest, with gentle breezes and comfortable temperatures creating ideal conditions for riverside camping. Summer emerges as the crown jewel for water enthusiasts, when warm days transform the Current River into a natural waterpark perfect for floating and kayaking. While winter brings a quieter charm to the landscape, experienced campers know that the shoulder seasons offer their own rewards—fewer crowds and nature's dramatic seasonal transitions.
ElevationThe gently rolling terrain of the Ozark landscape cradles the campground in a natural amphitheater of forested hills and river valleys.
Natural Features and SceneryA living tapestry of Ozark forest surrounds Akers Campground, where towering white oaks and shortleaf pines create a verdant canopy overhead. Along the riverbanks, majestic sycamores and cottonwoods stretch their branches toward the water, their leaves whispering ancient river songs. River birches and maples add splashes of color throughout the seasons, but spring steals the show when dogwoods and redbuds burst into bloom, transforming the forest into a painter's dream of pink and white blossoms dancing in the breeze.
Geological RegionThe Ozark National Scenic Riverways showcase nature's architectural mastery through an intricate network of caves, springs, sinkholes, and vanishing streams. This karst wonderland harbors more than 300 caves within its boundaries, with eight distinguished as outstanding natural features worthy of special protection. The landscape tells a geological story millions of years in the making, where water has sculpted limestone into cathedral-like caverns and crystal-clear springs. Above ground, the distinctive Ozark forest dominated by white oak and shortleaf pine gives way to riparian corridors where sycamores, cottonwoods, river birch, and maples thrive in the rich river soil.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are mentioned.
Sites SizeGroup tent-only sites are spacious enough to accommodate large groups.
Sites PrivacySites are described as secluded and private, providing a quiet camping environment.
Total Campsites180 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 3 is recommended for river access. Group site G02 is noted for proximity to canoe/kayak rentals and floating access.
Best CampsitesGroup sites G01 and G02 are highlighted for their proximity to the river, scenic views, and ample space.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in starts at 11:00 AM.
Check-out
Check-out is by 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
14 consecutive nights per visit, and 14 total nights within rolling 30 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum occupancy for each group site is up to 180 people.
Groups
Group sites are large, offering sufficient space for multiple tents and accommodating large parties. They have direct access to the river.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists entirely of group tent-only sites, with access to the river and primitive facilities.
Open and Closed SeasonGroup tent areas are open year-round. Peak reservations are available April 15 to October 15. No booking is allowed December 31 through April 15.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov, app, or by phone at 877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome campsites may be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Specific details for first-come availability are not provided.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before the scheduled arrival. A $10 cancellation fee applies, along with forfeiting reservation fees and the first night's use fee if canceled late (starting midnight 14 days before arrival).
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.
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Akers Campground offers a variety of recreational activities, primarily focused on water-based fun. The Current River provides opportunities for canoeing, tubing, swimming, and fishing. Additionally, the campground is surrounded by several hiking and horseback riding trails including Alley Overlook Trail, Chubb Hollow Trail, Ozark Trail, Cave Spring Trail, and Big Springs Trail. Wildlife viewing is also popular.
Hiking
Numerous hiking trails are accessible near the campground, ranging from scenic paths like the Alley Overlook Trail to challenging routes on the Ozark Trail.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are excellent along the Current River, which is known for its crystal-clear waters.Swimming
Swimming is popular in the clear, cold waters of the Current River.Boating
Visitors can enjoy boating activities, including canoeing and kayaking, on the Current River. Outfitters nearby offer rentals and guided tours.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is abundant, with species native to Missouri's forested landscapes and riversides.Cultural and Educational Programs
Nearby attractions such as Alley Mill and Round Spring Cave offer ranger-guided tours during summer months.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are listed.Water Sports
Water sports, particularly canoeing and kayaking, are widely enjoyed. Rentals are available nearby.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fire pits are available at group sites. No specific restrictions on campfires are mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsSome reviews noted poorly maintained vault toilets and challenging access routes at night due to spider webs and bugs. Steep terrain at the entrance may pose difficulties.
Weather forecast
72
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 53%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 5.3 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
Closest emergency services are in Salem, Missouri, approximately 20 miles away. Facilities include hospitals, police stations, and emergency responders.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 15 to October 15.
Trash and recyclingDumpsters for trash disposal are available, but recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresDirect access to the Current River allows for canoeing, kayaking, and tubing. Near Akers Ferry junction.
Common complaintsIssues raised include inadequate toilet facilities (2 available for 180 people), lack of signage for reserved campsites, and unreliable payment methods.
HostNot staffed. For inquiries, guests must contact the main office at 573-323-4236.
Campground Map
HCR 1 Box 455, JADWIN, MO, 65501, USA
Driving directionsFrom Salem, Missouri, take Highway 19 south for 4 miles. Turn right on Highway KK and drive 16 miles to Akers Group Campground. The campground is located 1/2 mile north of Akers Ferry at the junction of Highways K and KK.
Access involves paved roads until Highway KK. Some reviews mention that the entrance is steep, and trailers are not allowed. Seasonal closures of modern restrooms may affect accessibility during off-season months.Nearby places
Salem, MO - approximately 20 miles, 32 km, 25-minute drive.
Nearby supplies
Salem, Missouri is the nearest location for groceries, camping supplies, and fuel, 20 miles from the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.2
14 reviews
Akers is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User sentiment about Akers Campground varies widely. Positive reviews praise its scenic location, spacious group sites, and proximity to water activities. However, several complaints were raised about poor toilet facilities, lack of amenities, and maintenance issues.
Review Summaries
Based on 14 reviews
What Campers Love
The campground's riverfront access and secluded group sites are highly praised. One review states, 'Excellent riverfront group campsites! We will be coming back every year until we can't walk and/or...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Frequent criticisms include poorly maintained vault toilets, lack of reserved signs on sites, and understaffing. One reviewer noted, 'There are two toilets for a campground that holds 180 people....
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing essential items like extra bedding, fans, and cooking pans for a comfortable stay. One reviewer specifically advised bringing trash bags and foil for cooking.
Based on 14 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Reviews during peak season highlight enjoyable river activities and group camping experiences. Off-season reviews often mention limited facilities and a lack of amenities.
Based on 14 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'We go to campsite #4 every year. We have a big group and we just love it there. We float Saturday and kayak/raft Sunday. It’s so wonderful and we love seeing the horse riders come past our camp.'...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #3 is recommended for its river access, while Site #4 is popular for group camping. Site G01 received negative feedback due to reservation issues and poorly maintained toilets.
Based on 14 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews specifically addressing accessibility features are available.
Based on 14 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet policies and related experiences are not mentioned in user reviews.
Based on 14 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025