Ozark is beautiful, mysterious and full of adventures. Spread in four different states Texas, Oklahoma, Missouri and Arkansas, you can not be precise about whether this park is in the midwest or southern region. Amidst freshwater rivers and sky-high mountains, this place is perfect for camping. But if you are new to this place, you may overlook some of the best things about this fabulous location.
Spanning over 1.2 million acres, Ozark is home to some of the region's best features such as Mount Magazine — Arkansas' tallest peak. It also includes Lake Wedington, Blanchard Spring Caverns, and White Rock Mountains. With more than 200 miles of highland trails, 1000 miles of OHV trails and 400 miles of hiking trails, this place has the power to surprise you at every step.
Can We Go Camping In Ozarks?
This is your natural camping ground — in fact, one of the best in the United States. It makes sure to keep you refreshed and entertained all the time no matter what corner of the park you are in. So, if you are planning a peaceful or adventurous weekend at Ozarks in your RV and look forward to taking your climbing gear, bike, kayak, canoe, fishing rod, or hiking equipment, we present to you the region's top 6 camping grounds you should never miss.
Bear Creek
Do you love water sports? Then you should not forget to visit the recreation area at Bear Creek Lake. With an area of more than 625 acres, Bear Creek includes 30 miles of beautiful shoreline, a full mile of natural trail, a fishing pier that disabled people can access, and a beach.
We recommend bringing your fishing rod, kayak or canoe here as you are going to have some real fun in the crystal clear water at this place. You get three different camping areas here, and each one has picnic benches, fire rings, and a pit toilet. So, if you love cooking under the star-studded sky in the woods, pack your camp cookers, skillets & griddles to have a perfect camping time with your loved ones.
Barkshed Campground
Located at the North Sylamore Creek and Cap Fork meeting point, Barkshed Campground is right at the middle of Ozark National Park. It offers a fantastic camping experience for visitors with a beautiful landscape, river access, long & beautiful hiking trails.
If you are planning to camp here, winter is the ideal season. Do not forget to carry a reliable mosquito repeller to this place as bugs can ruin your trip.
Blanchard Springs Campground
This campground is located at the end of North Sylamore trail and contains a total of 17 campgrounds. Mostly preferred by the families, this clean and beautiful campground is perfect for taking your small RVs. Caverns are the central attraction of the place, which makes it a bit overcrowded in the peak days.
With widely spread creek and wall views, this place offers spectacular scenery and endless views. Sylamore Creek, located right next to the ground, and mirror lake with soul-soothing water sounds make Blanchard Springs one of the best campsites in the United States. 'Living Cave' is the must-visit place here. Visitors prefer bringing their own camping tents and sleeping bags to enjoy the scenic night views with campfire and food.
Haw Creek Falls Recreation Area
If camping here is on your mind, get ready to enjoy some of the best views of this park. With sky-touching hardwoods, picturesque trails, mind-blowing creeks, and a beautiful view of Haw Creek Falls, it's perfect for pitching your tent and spending a peaceful weekend in the lap of nature.
This place is remotely located, and you are less likely to find any neighbors close to your tent. Therefore, carrying a high-quality flashlight or lantern is recommended. Mornings at this recreation area are so pleasant and refreshing that one should not miss out on sipping a few sips of your coffee. Make sure to carry your coffeemaker and favorite novel as such views do not cross your path more often.
White Rock Mountain Recreation Area
Located at around 2260 miles above the sea level, White Rock is one of the best ways to grasp the beauty of Ozark National Park from the top. No matter what kind of a camper you are, this place has all that you want — Hiking trails, rivers perfect for kayaking, climbing-friendly creeks, and much more.
Campers prefer this to spend a beautiful weekend by nature with a touch of adventure. Kayaking down the Mulberry river stream is sure to get that much-needed adrenaline rush and a day spent hunting the nearby scenic trails is totally worth that sweat. Once you are back from the day's hike, you can relax at your tent with soulful music and a campfire. You may get the firewood from the locals at a minimal cost.
Gunner Pool Recreation Area
Gunner Pool campground is located near to the spring caverns at Blanchard. Comprising around 27 beautiful campgrounds, this recreation area offers easy access to the River White and River Buffalo.
A fantastic swimming hole is the primary attraction of this place which offers you a great chance to cool off after a tiring walk. With minimal human footfall, this location is very well kept and spacious. Campers are suggested to bring lanterns or LED lights as no lights are posted here.
Final Words
Ozark National Forest is full of biological, geological, and topographical diversities. Needless to say, it offers a variety of camping opportunities for all types of nature and adventure lovers.
You can pop-up your trailers, pitch a tent, park your RVs, roll-out sleeping bags, and hunt down the windy roads in your pickup trucks. No matter what your preferred camping style is, Ozark is all set to welcome you.
