Backcountry Campgrounds

Backcountry campgrounds are spread throughout Ozark National Scenic Riverways.

NPS Photo / Wil Marischen

 

Reservations Required

Reservations are required for all backcountry campsites and must be made through Recreation.gov. Fees apply year-round.

Important backcountry campsite reservation information

To reserve a backcountry campsite, please navigate below to the river section in which the campsite is located and click the blue "Reservation" button under the Reservations section.

Alternatively, you can go directly to Recreation.gov. Once there:

1. Search for "Ozark National Scenic Riverways"
2. Scroll down to the Upper Current, Jacks Fork/Middle Current or Lower Current Backcountry Campsite locations section
3. Follow the prompts to make your reservation for the specific backcountry location you want to reserve. 

You can also make a reservation by calling Recreation.gov at [phone]. However, please let the reserve agent know you are looking to reserve a backcountry campsite and which section you are interested in booking,( i.e.) Upper/Middle/Jacks Fork or Lower Current.

 

What Is a "Backcountry" Campground?

In our park, "backcountry campground" refers to sites that have some basic amenities, but not as many as developed campgrounds. All backcountry sites have picnic tables, fire rings, lantern posts, and vault toilet restrooms.

These campgrounds may have less amenities, but they are some of the most beautiful locations in the park. Certain sites are located right on the river's edge, allowing quick water access. Some sites are far away from other campers, giving you a chance to enjoy natural peace and quiet. If you crave a camping experience that is off the beaten path, these are the sites for you!

Keep in mind that these campgrounds are often harder to reach due to their location. Most backcountry sites require driving down gravel roads. Some roads are unsuitable for vehicles with low clearance. Be sure to double-check the location of your site before visiting.

Campground Booking

Backcountry campgrounds are available via reservation only through recreation.gov

 

Download the Recreation.gov App!

 

Backcountry Campground Fees

Starting April 15, 2025, backcountry sites will require a fee year-round. 

Standard Fees (Starting April 15, 2025)

Note: All backcountry sites are non-electric.

Backcountry Campsites	# of People	Price per Night
Standard	6	$10
Cluster	7 - 20	$25
Group	15 - 45	$65

For more information on occupancy and tent/RV limits, visit our campground regulations page.

 

Backcountry Campgrounds by River Section

Click the links below for individual campground descriptions, pictures, directions, and more!

Upper Current

• Cedar Grove
• Dee Murray
• Sinking Creek
• Jerktail
• Broadfoot

Jacks Fork/Middle Current

• Bay Creek
• Blue Spring (Jacks Fork)
  • Includes Baptizing Hole
• Bachers
• Rymers
• Shawnee
• Two Rivers [Backcountry from October 16 - April 14 only]
• Powder Mill
• Log Yard

Lower Current

• Pin Oak [Closed after Flooding]
• Big Tree
• Clubhouse
• Cedar Spring
• Grubb Hollow
• Gooseneck / Hawes

 

Related Pages

• 

  Camping Information

  Learn about camping in the Ozark National Scenic Riverways

• 

  Ozark Trail Camping

  Experience tranquil camping along the Ozark Trail!

• 

  Camping Regulations

  Learn about rules and regulations for camping in the park.