Big Elk Floats & Camping

For Missourians eager to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Ozarks, particularly the crystalline waters of the Elk River and Big Sugar Creek, Big Elk Floats & Camping in Pineville, MO, stands out as a prime destination. This versatile establishment offers a blend of camping experiences, exciting float trips, and a welcoming atmosphere, making it a beloved spot for families, groups, and solo adventurers alike. Since 1989, Big Elk Floats & Camping has been dedicated to providing memorable outdoor experiences, allowing guests to truly connect with the scenic beauty and abundant wildlife of Southwest Missouri.

More than just a campground, Big Elk Floats & Camping serves as a comprehensive outdoor recreation hub. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent under the stars, park your RV with full amenities, relax in a cozy cabin, or embark on a thrilling float trip down the river, this facility aims to cater to a wide range of preferences. With a focus on friendly service and a variety of activities, it's designed to be "the place to be" for anyone seeking an authentic Ozark adventure.

Big Elk Floats & Camping is conveniently located at 5029 S Business Hwy 71, Pineville, MO 64856, USA. This strategic address places it directly on the banks of the Big Elk River and Big Sugar Creek in Pineville, a charming town nestled in the heart of Southwest Missouri's Ozark Mountains. Its position on a main business highway ensures excellent accessibility for visitors traveling from various parts of Missouri and beyond.

The park's location offers a perfect balance of natural seclusion and convenient access. While providing a tranquil setting right by the rivers, it remains easily reachable, ensuring that guests can spend less time navigating and more time enjoying their outdoor escape. Pineville itself offers a quaint small-town experience, and the proximity to larger regional centers like Neosho and Joplin, MO, means that essential services, additional dining options, and other attractions are within a reasonable driving distance. This accessibility makes Big Elk Floats & Camping an ideal spot for Missouri locals looking for a quick weekend getaway or a longer vacation immersed in nature without feeling too far from modern conveniences.

Big Elk Floats & Camping prides itself on offering a comprehensive range of services and accommodation options to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay for all types of outdoor enthusiasts. Their offerings are designed to cater to various camping styles and recreational interests.

• RV Camping (Full Hookups): The "A" section of the park offers RV sites with full hookups (30 and 50 amps) including electric, water, and sewer. These sites are available as both pull-through and back-in options, many located directly on the Elk River.
• Pop-Up & Camper Sites (Electric & Water): The "B" section provides sites with electricity and water hookups, suitable for pop-ups and campers, also within walking distance to the river.
• Tent Camping (Various Options):
  • Primitive Tent Camping: Spacious spots are available for traditional tent camping, offering a more rustic experience.
  • Electric Only Tent Camping: The "C" section provides sites with electricity, allowing tent campers to power fans or charge devices.
  • Electric & Water Tent Camping: Some tent sites in the "B" section offer both electric and water hookups for added convenience.
• Cabin Rentals: A wide selection of cabins are available, ranging from cozy options for two to larger bunkhouses sleeping up to 18, and even an off-site "River Home" that accommodates 18-20 people. Cabins often include private bathrooms, air-conditioning, and coffee makers.
• Float Trip Outfitting: As a core service, Big Elk offers a variety of float trips on the Elk River and Big Sugar Creek. They provide rentals for:
  • Canoes
  • Kayaks (single, tandem, fishing)
  • Rafts (4, 6, 8, 10, 14-man)
  • Tubes (single, tandem, tanking, cooler tubes)
  • Paddleboards
• Shuttle Service: For those bringing their own boats, Big Elk offers shuttle services to transport guests and their boats to various put-in or take-out points on the river.
• Camp Store: An on-site general store is available, stocked with essentials like fishing worms, firewood, ice, and souvenirs, ensuring campers have access to forgotten necessities.
• Clean Restrooms and Shower House: The park provides bathhouses with restrooms and showers for guest convenience.
• Day Passes: Day passes are available for $15 per person (4 and older) or $40 per car, granting access to park amenities and the river from 8 AM to 7 PM.

Big Elk Floats & Camping distinguishes itself with a variety of features and highlights that create a comprehensive and enjoyable outdoor experience for its guests. These aspects are frequently lauded by visitors and contribute to the park's appeal.

• Prime Riverfront Location: Directly situated on the Big Elk River and Big Sugar Creek, offering immediate access to crystal-clear waters for swimming, fishing, and floating. Reviews specifically mention sites right on the river, providing fantastic views and direct access.
• Variety of Accommodation Options: From primitive tent sites to full-hookup RV spots and comfortable cabins (including a large "River Home"), the park caters to all camping preferences and group sizes.
• Exceptional Float Trip Experiences: The core attraction, offering a wide range of rental boats (canoes, kayaks, rafts, tubes) and routes on the scenic Elk River, suitable for all skill levels and group sizes, including those with pets.
• Family-Friendly Environment: Consistently praised as a "fantastic place if you're camping with kids," with features like swimming beaches, a general store, and activities that appeal to families.
• Friendly and Helpful Staff: Customer reviews frequently highlight the "friendly staff" who are attentive and helpful, contributing significantly to a positive guest experience.
• Well-Maintained Facilities: Reviewers commend the "nice and clean restrooms," indicating a commitment to guest comfort and hygiene.
• Spacious Campsites: Guests note that "campsites are spacious," providing ample room for setup and privacy, whether for RVs or tents.
• Level RV Sites: Specific praise for "perfectly level" RV sites makes setup easier and more comfortable for motorhome and travel trailer owners.
• Convenient On-Site Amenities: A well-stocked camp store, availability of firewood, and on-site propane exchange enhance the convenience for campers.
• Quiet Hours Enforcement: The presence of "quiet hours" ensures a peaceful environment for all guests, allowing for relaxation after a day of activities.
• Pet-Friendly Policy: Guests have successfully brought their dogs on floats, indicating a welcoming approach to furry family members (though rules like leash requirements apply).

Big Elk Floats & Camping, while offering a variety of services, structured its pricing to reflect the different accommodation types and activities. While specific, limited-time "promotions" beyond their standard rates may not be widely advertised, they offer value through their comprehensive packages and tiered pricing.

• Tiered Camping Rates: Pricing varies based on the type of site (primitive, electric only, electric & water, full hookup RV) and the number of guests. This allows visitors to choose an option that best fits their budget and needs. For example:
  • Primitive Camping: $20/Adult & $12/Child (base rate includes 2 campers at $40/night).
  • Electric Sites: $50/Night (includes 2 campers).
  • Electric & Water Sites: $50/Night (includes 2 campers).
  • Full Hookup RV Sites: $55/Night (includes 2 campers).
  • Children under 4 years old are always free.
• Float Trip Packages: Rental rates for canoes, kayaks, rafts, and tubes are clearly listed, allowing groups to select their preferred floating experience.
• Day Pass Access: For those not camping overnight, a $15 per person (or $40 per car) day pass provides access to the river and park amenities from 8 AM to 7 PM.
• Cabin/Lodging Discounts: Some cabins may offer discounts on weekdays, encouraging off-peak visits. The "River Home" can have a $300/night weekday discount.
• Group Discounts: As a general practice for float trip outfitters, group discounts may be available for large parties, though specific details would need direct inquiry.
• Shuttle Service: A specific rate of $40 per vehicle or per boat for those bringing their own watercraft.

To get the most accurate and current information on rates, availability, and any potential group booking specials, it is highly recommended to contact Big Elk Floats & Camping directly via phone or by visiting their official website for their interactive reservation map.

Ready to plan your unforgettable outdoor adventure at Big Elk Floats & Camping? Connecting with their friendly staff is easy to make reservations or inquire about their services.

Address: 5029 S Business Hwy 71, Pineville, MO 64856, USA

Phone: (417) 355-6037

Mobile Phone: +1 417-355-6037 (also listed as a textable number)

Email: info@bigelkfloatsandcamping.com

We encourage you to reach out by phone or email for the most up-to-date information on campsite and cabin availability, float trip bookings, and any specific questions you may have. Their dedicated team is ready to assist you in planning your perfect Missouri river and camping experience.

For residents of Missouri, Big Elk Floats & Camping in Pineville is an exceptionally suitable and highly recommended destination, offering a comprehensive and authentic Ozark outdoor experience right in their backyard. Its prime location on the Big Elk River and Big Sugar Creek provides immediate access to some of the state's most cherished natural waterways, making it perfect for spontaneous day trips or extended stays.

The variety of camping options—from rustic tent sites to fully equipped RV spots and comfortable cabins—ensures that every Missourian, regardless of their preferred camping style or group size, can find a suitable and enjoyable place to stay. For families, the park is a clear winner, noted by reviews as "fantastic if you're camping with kids," thanks to the safe river access for swimming and fishing, and the overall family-friendly atmosphere. The core highlight, the float trips, offers a quintessential Missouri experience, easily accessible with a wide array of rental options, meaning locals don't need their own equipment to enjoy the river.

Beyond the activities, the consistent praise for "friendly staff" and "nice large trees" right on the river, combined with "perfectly level" RV sites, speaks to a well-managed and comfortable environment. The on-site camp store and convenient shuttle services further enhance the ease of a local getaway. For Missourians seeking a genuine outdoor adventure that combines thrilling river activities with relaxing camping, all supported by friendly service and diverse accommodations, Big Elk Floats & Camping is an ideal choice to escape the everyday and reconnect with the natural beauty of their home state.