Blue Spring Campground

For residents of Missouri seeking a truly captivating and refreshing escape into nature, Blue Spring Campground near Mountain View, Missouri, stands as an unparalleled destination. This isn't just any campground; it's a gateway to the pristine waters of the Jacks Fork River and the breathtaking natural beauty of the Ozark National Scenic Riverways. Blue Spring Campground offers a unique blend of tranquil river access, family-friendly recreation, and the raw charm of Missouri's stunning landscape, making it a highly sought-after spot for both seasoned campers and those looking to discover a new outdoor favorite.

A campground provides more than just a place to set up camp; it's a launchpad for adventure, a haven for relaxation, and a space where memories are made. Blue Spring Campground excels in delivering on these promises, with its direct access to the Jacks Fork River being a significant draw. The river here offers a diverse experience, from calm, shallow pools perfect for little ones to explore and snorkel, to areas with gentle rapids that add a touch of excitement, and deeper spots favored by anglers. It's a place where the sounds of the city are replaced by the gentle murmur of the river and the calls of native wildlife, creating an idyllic setting for unwinding.

What truly distinguishes Blue Spring Campground is the famous blue spring itself, located within a cave. This natural wonder pumps millions of gallons of remarkably cold, crystal-clear water into the Jacks Fork daily, providing a unique and invigorating experience for those brave enough to take a dip. This natural feature, combined with the peaceful atmosphere and opportunities for various water activities, makes the campground a truly special find in the heart of the Ozarks.

This article will delve deeper into the specifics of Blue Spring Campground, covering its precise location and accessibility, the range of services it provides, its unique features and highlights, any promotions, and essential contact information. Ultimately, we will illustrate why this campground is an ideal choice for Missourians looking for an authentic and unforgettable outdoor adventure.

Blue Spring Campground is situated at County Road OO-493, Mountain View, MO 65548, USA, nestled within a scenic bend of the Jacks Fork River as part of the Ozark National Scenic Riverways. This location places it in the beautiful South Central region of Missouri, offering a truly "off the beaten path" experience while remaining accessible from major routes.

To reach the campground from Mountain View, travelers should drive east on Highway 60 for approximately 3 miles, then turn left onto Highway OO. Continue north on Highway OO for about 2.5 miles, and after a large bend in the road, turn left onto County Road OO-493. Follow this main path for approximately 2 miles until it dead-ends into Blue Spring Campground. It's important to note that the last couple of miles involve driving on gravel roads, which contributes to its secluded feel but is generally manageable for most vehicles and RVs.

While the campground feels remote, its strategic location on the Jacks Fork River provides excellent access for floating, swimming, and fishing. Furthermore, it's within a reasonable driving distance of other popular Ozark destinations and towns like Eminence and West Plains, where campers can find additional supplies, dining options, and other services if needed. This balance of secluded natural beauty and relatively convenient access makes it a practical choice for a memorable outdoor getaway in Missouri.

Blue Spring Campground offers a range of services designed to make your camping experience comfortable and enjoyable, whether you're bringing an RV or pitching a tent. These services are geared towards providing essential amenities in a natural setting:

• Variety of Campsites: The campground features 82 campsites, catering to different preferences. This includes 30 full hookup sites (electric, water, and sewer), 13 electric and water sites, and 39 electric-only sites. All sites are approximately 65 feet in length and are equipped with a picnic table, BBQ grill, and a fire ring.
• Utility Hookups: For RVs, sites offer 20, 30, and 50 amp electrical hookups, ensuring compatibility with various recreational vehicles. Water connections are also available at many sites.
• Restrooms and Showers: Two coin-operated shower houses are available on-site, providing clean facilities for campers to freshen up. Restrooms are also provided.
• Pet-Friendly: Blue Spring Campground is welcoming to pets. There are no limits or weight regulations for pets staying in campsites, but they must remain on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times while on the resort grounds.
• Campground Attendant: An attendant is typically on-site to assist campers and manage the campground operations, providing a point of contact for questions or issues.
• Firewood and Ice: Firewood and ice are available for purchase at the campground, ensuring you have what you need for campfires and keeping your coolers cold.
• Laundry Facilities: Laundry facilities are provided, offering a convenient option for longer stays or cleaning up after outdoor adventures.
• Dump Station: A dump station is available for RVs to dispose of their waste, simplifying the departure process.
• Drinking Water: Potable water is available throughout the campground.

Blue Spring Campground is particularly celebrated for several key features and highlights that make it a cherished destination for Missourians:

• Crystal Clear Jacks Fork River Access: The campground's prime location directly on the Jacks Fork River is its biggest asset. The river here is known for its clarity and relatively slow current, creating perfect conditions for various water activities. There are calm, shallow pools ideal for young children to snorkel and play, as well as spots with gentle rapids and deeper areas for fishing.
• The Blue Spring Cave: A unique and highly praised feature is the actual Blue Spring, located within a cave. This spring pumps exceptionally cold water into the river, offering a refreshing and memorable experience for those who venture to explore it. It's truly a natural wonder.
• Excellent Fishing Opportunities: Anglers will find plenty to enjoy, with various spots along the river that are popular for fishing. The calm pools and deeper areas provide good opportunities to catch local species.
• Peaceful and Enjoyable Atmosphere: Visitors consistently describe the campground as "peaceful" and "very enjoyable." It's an ideal spot to unwind, relax by the river, and simply enjoy the tranquility of nature, away from the typical crowds.
• Family-Friendly Environment: The presence of shallow, calm water areas makes it particularly suitable for families with young children. Kids can safely play, snorkel, and explore the river, fostering a love for the outdoors. The focus on water activities makes it a great summer destination for families.
• Scenic Beauty: The "beautiful" surroundings, including bluffs and natural landscapes along the Jacks Fork River, contribute significantly to the overall experience. It's a place where you can truly appreciate the Ozark wilderness.
• Proximity to Outdoor Activities: Beyond the immediate campground, its location in the Ozark National Scenic Riverways provides access to numerous other outdoor activities, including floating trips, hiking trails, and exploring other springs and natural formations in the region.

While specific, time-sensitive promotions or special offers for Blue Spring Campground may not be widely advertised, it is part of Blue Springs Ranch which does offer various booking options and potentially seasonal rates. As is common with many campgrounds, the best way to discover any current deals is by contacting them directly. However, the inherent value of Blue Spring Campground can be considered its standing "promotion":

• Competitive Pricing: Given the range of site options (full hookup, electric/water, electric only), the campground offers varying price points, making it accessible to different budgets. For instance, full hookup sites typically cost around $28 per night, electric and water sites are about $24, and electric-only sites are around $21. This affordability, combined with the amenities and prime location, offers excellent value.
• Seasonal Availability: Blue Spring Campground is typically open from April through September, aligning with prime camping season in Missouri. While not a promotion, this consistent seasonal operation allows for reliable planning of spring, summer, and fall trips.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on rates, availability, and any potential package deals or long-term stay discounts, prospective campers should always reach out to Blue Spring Campground directly. They can provide details on booking procedures and any current specials.

For reservations, inquiries about site availability, or any other questions regarding your stay at Blue Spring Campground, please use the following contact information:

• Address: County Road OO-493, Mountain View, MO 65548, USA
• Phone: (573) 323-4236
• Mobile Phone: +1 573-323-4236

Given that the campground is part of a larger resort (Blue Springs Ranch), these numbers typically connect you to the main office for booking and information. It is always recommended to call ahead, especially during peak season, to check availability and confirm any details about your preferred site type. You can also visit their official website for online reservations and more detailed information about the facilities and park policies.

For locals in Missouri, Blue Spring Campground stands out as an exceptionally suitable and appealing destination for their outdoor adventures. Its location on the crystal-clear Jacks Fork River, a true gem of the Ozarks, offers unparalleled opportunities for water-based recreation right at your doorstep. Whether you're a family with young children looking for safe, shallow areas to play, an avid angler seeking a peaceful fishing spot, or an adventurer eager to experience the unique cold spring cave, this campground caters to a diverse range of interests.

The atmosphere is consistently described as "peaceful and very enjoyable," providing a much-needed escape from the stresses of daily life without requiring a long journey. This "off the beaten path" charm, combined with the availability of essential amenities like full hookups, showers, and pet-friendly policies, means you can enjoy the beauty of nature with the comforts of home.

Moreover, being part of the larger Ozark National Scenic Riverways provides access to a vast network of outdoor activities, ensuring there's always something new to explore beyond the campground. For Missourians, Blue Spring Campground isn't just a place to stay; it's a cherished local treasure that offers a rich, refreshing, and genuinely memorable outdoor experience, perfectly suited for creating lasting family traditions in the heart of the Show-Me State.