
Jacks Fork District Backcountry Campsites
45
Total Campsites
Campground
—
Reservable Sites
Mostly first-come
—
Accessible
ADA-compliant sites
—
Organization
Managing agency
Overview
About Jacks Fork District Backcountry Campsites
Overview 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 dowload the Recreation.gov app before starting your journey to the backcountry sites, as cell serivce can be limited or simply non existent in these remote areas of the park. All backcountry sites are now payable with Scan & Pay and you will need the Recreation.gov app to complete the purchase of your campsite. Recreation The river flows past the campground, offering excellent canoeing, tubing, swimming and fishing. Over 130 miles (209 km) of waterways exist within the park. Canoe and kayak rentals and outfitters can be found nearby. Several miles of hiking and horseback riding trails crisscross the region, include the Alley Overlook Trail, Chubb Hollow Trail, Ozark Trail, Cave Spring Trail and Big Springs Trail. Facilities This campground has vault toilets available. Picnic tables, fire rings, and lantern posts are provided. Natural Features The Ozark National Scenic Riverways is known for its caves, springs, sinkholes and losing streams, and features over 300 identified caves within its boundaries. The caves range in size from a rock overhang to almost seven miles of identified passages. Eight caves, including an open sinkhole, have been designated as outstanding natural features. The Ozark forest is mostly White oak and Shortleaf pine, Missouri's only native pine species. Along the rivers, Sycamore, Cottonwood, River birch and maples are common. Redbud and dogwoods are also abundant, putting on a spectacular show during most spring months. Nearby Attractions Round Spring Cave is nearby, with ranger-guided tours offered daily during summer months. Historic and picturesque Alley Mill and Alley Spring are also nearby. The mill is open daily in the summer and ranger-guided tours are available upon request. Scenic Big Spring is the largest freshwater spring in North America and produces an outflow of 280 million gallons a day. Charges & Cancellations With the backcountry sites now utilizing the Recreation.gov Scan and Pay system, there will not be any capability for changes and refunds. If you are unsure of your plans, please pay one night at a time.
- 45 total campsites listed.
- Primarily first-come camping based on current listing data.
- Most common site type: standard nonelectric (45).


Our Take
What makes Jacks Fork District Backcountry Campsites special
For those who crave camping at its most elemental, the Jacks Fork District Backcountry Campsites deliver an authentic Ozarks experience along one of America's most beloved scenic rivers. Spread across 45 designated sites within the Ozark National Scenic Riverways, these backcountry camps put you directly in the landscape that has drawn paddlers, hikers, and nature lovers to southern Missouri for generations. Amenities are intentionally basic: a picnic table, a fire ring, and the sounds of the river. That simplicity is the whole point. The Jacks Fork River winds through steep, forested bluffs and past towering limestone formations, creating a setting that feels far more remote than its location near Van Buren might suggest. Crystal-clear spring-fed water makes every bend in the river a visual treat. Canoeing and kayaking are the primary ways to experience this corridor, and many of the campsites are accessible only by water, adding a welcome sense of adventure to your trip. Float trips can range from leisurely afternoon paddles to multi-day journeys through some of the most scenic river miles in the Midwest. On land, hiking trails lead to caves, natural springs, and overlooks with commanding views of the river valley. Wildlife is abundant, from river otters playing in the shallows to barred owls calling at dusk. These sites are first-come, first-served and rarely feel crowded. If you are looking to trade screens and schedules for firelight and flowing water, the Jacks Fork backcountry is calling.
Campsite Inventory
45 sites to choose from
STANDARD NONELECTRIC
0
Reservable
0
Accessible
Amenities & Details
Everything you need to know
CAMPFIRE RINGS
Campfire Rings
Campfire Allowed
Yes
Site capacity
Double
Check-in time
1:00 PM
Check-out time
12:00 PM
Condition Rating
Good, Standard
LANTERN POSTS
Lantern Posts
Location Rating
Prime
Max guests
6
Minimum guests
Yes
PICNIC TABLES
Picnic Tables
Pets allowed
Yes
Proximity to Water
Riverfront
Sewer Hookup
No
Shade
Yes
Site Access
Drive-In, Walk-In
Site Rating
Prime
Water Hookup
No
Reservations & Contact
Plan your stay
Phone
573-323-4236
FAQ
Common questions
Everything you need to know before your trip to Jacks Fork District Backcountry Campsites .
How do reservations work for Jacks Fork District Backcountry Campsites ?
Reservation availability for Jacks Fork District Backcountry Campsites can vary by season and campsite type. Check the contact and access section before booking.
What campsite types are available at Jacks Fork District Backcountry Campsites ?
Jacks Fork District Backcountry Campsites currently lists STANDARD NONELECTRIC (45).
Where is Jacks Fork District Backcountry Campsites located?
Jacks Fork District Backcountry Campsites is in Missouri near Van Buren.
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