Green Island Primitive Camping

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Green Island Primitive Camping
$0.00 - $0.00 / 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$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

Primitive camping is free of charge.
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605-665-0209dugan_smith@nps.gov

About this campground

Escape to Green Island Primitive Camping, where adventure begins the moment you push off from shore. This secluded riverside sanctuary features five carefully positioned tent sites that promise solitude and connection with nature. Choose between the two intimate eastern sites for ultimate privacy or the trio of western sites perfect for small groups seeking camaraderie under the stars. Each site comes equipped with its own fire ring, where evening conversations and marshmallow roasting create lasting memories. As a true primitive camping experience, you'll embrace the Leave No Trace ethos while navigating to this water-access-only destination—a journey that rewards paddlers and boaters with an untouched camping paradise far from the crowds.
Green Island Primitive Camping exclusively offers primitive camping experiences. The campsite features five designated tent camping sites with no modern amenities.
Weather and SeasonsWinter transforms Green Island into a crisp wonderland where adventurous souls discover the raw beauty of the season. Expect invigorating cold temperatures that make morning coffee taste extraordinary and occasional dustings of snow that blanket the landscape in pristine white. The moderate winds carry the whisper of the river, while freezing temperatures create a magical frost on tent walls at dawn. Smart campers come prepared with quality cold-weather gear to fully embrace the winter camping experience, finding warmth not just in their sleeping bags but in the unique serenity this season brings to the island.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the captivating embrace of the Missouri National Recreational River, where Green Island emerges as a natural jewel adorned with thriving riparian forests and meadows. Wake to panoramic river views that change with each passing hour—from misty morning reflections to golden sunset displays dancing across the water. The island's lush vegetation creates a living tapestry of native plants and towering trees that provide both shade and habitat for diverse wildlife. This riverine ecosystem pulses with life, offering campers front-row seats to nature's daily performances, from bird songs at dawn to the gentle lapping of water against the shoreline throughout the night.
Geological RegionNestled within the Missouri National Recreational River system, Green Island spans 60 pristine acres of remarkable riverine geology. This dynamic landscape tells the story of centuries of river flow, creating rich riparian environments where water and land merge in perfect harmony. The island's terrain showcases the fascinating interplay between river deposits and erosion, resulting in diverse microhabitats that support an impressive array of plant and animal life. This geological wonderland offers campers the rare opportunity to explore an ever-evolving ecosystem shaped by the timeless forces of one of America's great rivers.

Campsite details

AccessibilityThere is no information provided about the accessibility features at the campground.
Sites SizeThe campground offers five primitive tent campsites. Two isolated tent sites are located on the east side of the island, while three adjacent sites are situated on the west side. Site sizes are not described in detail.
Sites PrivacyThe two isolated tent sites on the east side of the island offer a higher level of privacy, while the three adjacent sites on the west side are likely to be less private.
Total Campsites5 campsites

Reserving a campsite

Groups
No group camping facilities are available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutThe campground is divided into two isolated sites on the east side and three adjacent sites on the west side of the island.
Reservation PlatformsNot available for reservation through any platforms; camping is first-come-first-served within designated sites only.
Walk-in AvailabilityCamping is available on a first-come-first-served basis only.

Amenities available

Fire rings

Activities you can enjoy

Recreational activities at Green Island Primitive Camping are focused on nature-based and outdoor experiences. Campers can enjoy the solitude and wilderness of the island.
Boating
Island access is exclusively by boat, making boating an integral part of the camping experience. Campers must use watercraft to reach the island.
Winter Activities
No information is provided about winter recreation opportunities.
Water Sports
Since the island is accessible only by watercraft, activities such as kayaking or canoeing may be available, though not explicitly mentioned.

Campground rules

  • Pets are not allowed
  • Campfires are permitted only in designated fire rings.

Hazards

General hazardsPotential hazards include boat access challenges, water navigation difficulties, and exposure to weather conditions like freezing temperatures and snow during winter.

Weather forecast

71
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%

Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities

Humidity: 37%

Comfortable humidity levels

Wind: 2.9 mph

Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities

Clear sky
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Temperature Trends

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Weather Summaries

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Good to know

Trash and recyclingNo trash or recycling facilities are available. Campers are encouraged to follow 'Leave No Trace' principles and pack out all waste.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly on the Missouri River, the campground is surrounded by water on all sides.

Campground Map

Driving directionsNear River Mile 806 is the 60-acre Green Island Recreation Area. Only accessible by watercraft.
Island access is boat only; there are no roads leading to the campground. No driving accessibility beyond watercraft navigation, making it essential to plan accordingly with proper boating equipment.

Camper Reviews

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Limited Reviews
Limited Reviews
Green Island Primitive Camping has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
No user reviews are available for Green Island Primitive Camping.
Review Summaries

What Campers Love

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Common Concerns

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Pro Tips & Recommendations

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Seasonal Insights

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Camper Quotes

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Site-Specific Reviews

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Accessibility Features

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Pet-Friendly Features

Not available due to lack of user reviews.

Last updated August 10, 2025

Campgrounds
Green Island Primitive Camping