Big Spring
4.0699 reviewsPO BOX 490, VAN BUREN, MO 63965, USA
Big Spring
$10.00 - $140.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$30.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$140.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees vary based on season and site type. Peak season (April 15 - October 15) rates: Standard Electric sites $30, Standard Nonelectric $20, Group Tent Only Area Nonelectric $140 (high) or $65. Non-Peak rates (October 16 - December 31): Standard Electric sites $20, Standard Nonelectric $10, Group Tent Only Area Nonelectric $50 (high) or $25.
About this campground
Nestled within the pristine Ozark National Scenic Riverways, Big Spring Campground serves as your gateway to one of Missouri's most spectacular natural playgrounds. Here, the crystal-clear Current River beckons adventurers to cast a line for smallmouth bass, drift lazily in tubes on hot summer days, or navigate gentle rapids by kayak. Miles of winding trails lead through ancient forests, revealing hidden springs and scenic overlooks that showcase the raw beauty of the Ozark landscape.
Big Spring Campground accommodates a variety of camping preferences, including sites for RVs, tents, and groups. Electric and non-electric sites are available.
Historical SignificanceAt the heart of this natural sanctuary flows Big Spring itself—a geological marvel that holds the crown as North America's largest freshwater spring, thundering forth an astounding 280 million gallons of pure, turquoise water every single day. Your adventures can extend to the mysterious depths of Round Spring Cave, the historic water-powered Alley Mill, and the enchanting Alley Spring, each site weaving together threads of natural wonder and human heritage that have shaped this region for generations.
Weather and SeasonsTime your visit for spring's wildflower explosion or autumn's brilliant foliage display, when comfortable temperatures create perfect conditions for outdoor exploration. Summer brings sultry days that make the cool river waters irresistible for swimming and paddling. While winter transforms the landscape into a quiet wonderland, freezing temperatures make this season best suited for the hardiest cold-weather campers.
ElevationYour campsite rests in the gentle embrace of the Ozark hills, where the forested landscape slopes down to meet the legendary Current River. This riverside setting creates a natural amphitheater of wilderness, with the soothing sounds of flowing water serving as nature's soundtrack to your camping experience.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering white oaks and shortleaf pines create a living cathedral above your campsite, while graceful sycamores, cottonwoods, and river birches line the waterway like sentinels. Come spring, the forest erupts in a painter's palette of pink and white as redbuds and dogwoods burst into bloom, while autumn brings a spectacular finale as maples set the hillsides ablaze with crimson and gold.
Geological RegionYou're camping atop one of America's most fascinating geological wonderlands—the Ozark National Scenic Riverways. This ancient landscape conceals a hidden world beneath its rolling, forested surface, where over 300 caves pierce the bedrock like nature's secret passages. Eight of these subterranean chambers have earned designation as outstanding natural features, while above ground, mysterious sinkholes, vanishing streams, and bubbling springs tell the ongoing story of water's patient work in sculpting this remarkable terrain over millions of years.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are mentioned but not fully detailed. Some sites allow for easy access to facilities like bathrooms or the river.
Sites SizeSites are described as generally small and older in design, with lengths around 40-45 feet. Some sites allow for 50-amp electric hookups.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary, with some sites offering closeness to nature and others being crowded or close together.
Total Campsites100 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites closer to bathrooms for convenience or sites like 212 with trail access leading to the river.
Best CampsitesGroup sites such as G02 and individual sites like 212 and 214 are highly rated. Group sites offer proximity to bathrooms and better layouts.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Official check-in time is 11:00 AM.
Check-out
Official check-out time is 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit: 14 days at this campground within a rolling 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Two tents or 1 RV and 1 tent permitted per site.
Groups
Group picnic areas are available, situated at Big Spring, Peavine, and Chubb Hollow locations. Specific sites like G02 and G03 are praised for their suitability for larger groups.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampsites are arranged in loops with paved roads and parking spurs. Some sites have unique layouts, including picnic tables and fire rings on the opposite side of camper doors.
Open and Closed SeasonCampground is open year-round but modern restrooms are closed outside the April 15 - October 15 period. Alternative facilities are provided during the off-season.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are available on Recreation.gov with options to book online, via the app, or through the toll-free number (1-877-444-6777).
Walk-in AvailabilitySome campsites may be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Availability varies.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before scheduled arrival with a $10 fee. Late cancellations forfeit the first night's fee starting from midnight the day before check-in. Group sites have stricter cancellation rules.
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
Cell phone service
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
The Big Spring Campground is rich in recreational activities including hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and water sports. The Current River provides opportunities for canoeing, tubing, swimming, and kayaking. Nearby attractions include Big Spring itself, Rocky Falls, and Blue Spring.
Hiking
Hiking trails such as Alley Overlook Trail, Cave Spring Trail, and Big Springs Trail are available. Trails are described as well-marked and scenic.Fishing
Fishing is permitted and several campers enjoyed the quality of the water and the abundance of fishing locations.Swimming
Swimming opportunities are available in the Current River, characterized by clean but cold water.Biking
Biking is popular due to paved roads and scenic trails in the area. Some campers specifically mentioned enjoying biking around CCC buildings and exhibits.Boating
Boating opportunities exist on the Current River, but user reviews note concerns about the presence of motorboats disrupting activities like tubing and kayaking.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a highlight, with sightings of deer, turkey (notably named Pumpkin), and raccoons.Cultural and Educational Programs
Ranger-led campfire programs are offered during summer months, and some visitors appreciated the educational talks.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly mentioned in the provided data.Water Sports
Water sports such as canoeing, kayaking, and tubing are popular activities on the Current River.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire rings and grills are provided at campsites. Fires must be contained within designated rings.
- Quiet hours begin at 10:00 PM.
Hazards
General hazardsWildlife such as raccoons and mosquitoes are common. Users reported difficulties due to gnats and flies in summer and potential flooding in certain sites during rainy seasons.
Active alertsFlooding has been reported in the past, impacting certain campsites. Visitors should check for current conditions before arrival.
Weather forecast
77
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 45%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 5.9 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 Van Buren, which includes medical facilities and police services. The park itself has ranger stations for certain situations.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 15 - October 15
Trash and recyclingTrash disposal facilities are available, but user reviews suggest dumpsters are prone to raccoon activity at night, causing disruption.
Proximity to water featuresThe Current River flows near the campground but does not offer direct access from campsites. Visitors can access nearby gravel bars and beaches.
Common complaintsRecurring complaints include dirty shower facilities, crowded campsites, and limited access to the river. Users recommend more electrical and water hookups at non-electric sites.
HostCampground hosts may not always be available. User reviews describe mixed experiences with campground hosts, ranging from unavailability to unfriendly interactions.
Campground Map
PO BOX 490, VAN BUREN, MO 63965, USA
Driving directionsBig Spring Campground is located four miles south of Van Buren, Missouri. Turn south on Missouri Highway 103 and continue south for four miles to the Big Spring Unit of the park.
Access to the campground is via Missouri Highway 103, which is a paved road in good condition. Visitors report that signage to the campground could be improved, as some signs are small and not easily visible.Nearby places
Van Buren (4 miles, approximately 10 minutes drive)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies, including groceries and camping gear, can be found in Van Buren, approximately 4 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.1
99 reviews
Big Spring is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Big Spring Campground has received varied feedback from users. While many campers appreciate the natural beauty of the area, issues such as site proximity, facility cleanliness, and lack of direct river access are frequently mentioned.
Review Summaries
Based on 99 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers praised the scenic beauty of Big Spring and nearby attractions, as well as the availability of hiking and biking trails. The campground's quiet atmosphere and clean restrooms in certain loops...
Based on 99 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include crowded and small campsites, poorly maintained shower facilities, lack of direct river access, and disruptive motorboats on the Current River.
Based on 99 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing fly deterrents and extended-length water hoses. They also suggest visiting nearby attractions like Rocky Falls and Blue Spring. Several reviewers highlighted the value of...
Based on 99 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Seasonal trends indicate that spring and fall are ideal times to visit due to moderate temperatures and fewer crowds. Summer months may be less favorable due to bugs, high temperatures, and...
Based on 99 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"The Current River flows past the campground, offering excellent canoeing, tubing, swimming and fishing." "Bathrooms at circle 200 were nice, new and clean. However, the shower house was by far the...
Based on 99 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Loop 200 received mixed reviews with mentions of clean restrooms but poorly maintained shower houses. Specific campsites like 212 and 216 were noted for close proximity to the river and scenic views.
Based on 99 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features are somewhat mentioned, with campers noting proximity to restrooms and pathways to the river. However, detailed feedback from users with disabilities is lacking.
Based on 99 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed and some campers highlighted tick prevention as a necessary precaution when visiting.
Based on 99 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025