Boze Mill Float Camp

For us Missourians who truly appreciate the untamed beauty of our Ozark landscapes and the serene flow of our wild and scenic rivers, Boze Mill Float Camp on the Eleven Point National Scenic River offers an experience unlike any other. It’s a place that transcends the typical campground, offering a unique blend of primitive camping, historical intrigue, and unparalleled access to one of our state’s most cherished waterways. If you're seeking a natural escape where the journey is as much a part of the adventure as the destination itself, Boze Mill is a "unique place" indeed, waiting to be explored by those who value genuine wilderness and a touch of history.

Nestled in a beautiful glen, Boze Mill Float Camp isn't just about setting up a tent; it’s about stepping into a rich natural and historical tapestry. Imagine pulling your canoe ashore to find a sparkling blue spring, the remnants of an old grist mill, and a peaceful campsite all within easy reach. This hidden gem, tucked away in the Mark Twain National Forest, is a testament to the rugged charm and untouched beauty that makes Missouri so special for outdoor enthusiasts.

Boze Mill Float Camp is located in Ozark Township, MO 63935, USA, specifically nestled along the banks of the Eleven Point National Scenic River within the Mark Twain National Forest. This prime location places it in south-central Missouri's beautiful Ozarks, a region celebrated for its pristine rivers, dense forests, and abundant wildlife.

What makes Boze Mill particularly unique is its dual accessibility. It can be accessed primarily from the river, making it a popular stopping point for those canoeing or floating down the Eleven Point River. Its position at approximately river mile 33.5, just above Riverton and downstream from Greenbriar Float Camp, makes it a convenient and scenic stop for multi-day float trips.

However, Boze Mill Float Camp is also one of the few float camps on the Eleven Point River that can be accessed by vehicle, offering a "walk-in" option. From Riverton, visitors can go east on Highway 160, then turn left/north onto County Road 152 and travel for about 2 miles. Upon arriving at the site, visitors will need to walk down a short trail from the parking area to reach the campsites. While the road in might be gravel and require a slow pace, this land-based access makes it available to a wider range of visitors who may not be arriving by watercraft. This combination of river and road access truly enhances its appeal, allowing more Missourians to discover this "unique place."

Boze Mill Float Camp is a primitive campground, emphasizing self-sufficiency and immersion in nature. The services offered are focused on providing essential amenities for a rustic camping experience within the Mark Twain National Forest:

• Primitive Camping Sites: There are 3 designated primitive campsites. These sites are equipped with basic necessities, including a lantern post, a picnic table, and a fire ring for campfires and cooking. Dispersed camping is also generally allowed in the broader area, following Leave No Trace principles.

• Vault Toilet: A centrally located vault toilet is available, providing basic restroom facilities for campers.

• River Access for Floating: The camp serves as a popular stopping point for those canoeing or floating on the Eleven Point National Scenic River, offering easy access from the water.

• Fishing Opportunities: The Eleven Point River at Boze Mill provides excellent opportunities for wade or float fishing, targeting bass, rainbow trout, and pan fish.

• Picnic Areas: Scattered picnic tables and pedestal grills are available for day use, allowing visitors to enjoy meals by the river.

• Historical Exploration: The site preserves remnants of the Lucas Boze grist mill from the late 1800s, including an old turbine and hand-layered rock wall, offering a unique historical "service" for visitors to explore.

• Nature Observation: The beautiful Boze Mill Spring, which forms a sparkling blue pool and produces millions of gallons of water daily, is a natural highlight for observation and appreciation. Aquatic plants in the spring branch add to the visual appeal.

It is important to note that potable water is not available at this site, so campers must bring their own or be prepared to treat any water sourced from the area. There are also no trash containers, emphasizing a "pack out all of your garbage" policy to preserve the natural beauty.

• Unique River Access: Boze Mill is distinguished by being one of the few float camps on the Eleven Point River that is accessible both by river (boat-in) and by a short walk from a parking area (walk-in). This dual access makes it incredibly versatile for different types of adventurers.

• Stunning Natural Spring: The "sparkling blue pool" of Boze Mill Spring, emerging from underground and producing millions of gallons of water daily, is a major highlight. Its crystal-clear water and surrounding aquatic plants create a breathtaking natural spectacle.

• Rich Historical Significance: The remnants of the Lucas Boze grist mill, including the 1880s turbine and hand-layered rock wall, offer a fascinating glimpse into Missouri's past. This historical element adds depth to the natural beauty, making it a unique educational and exploratory site.

• Excellent Fishing Opportunities: The Eleven Point River at this location is renowned for its fishing, particularly for bass, rainbow trout, and pan fish. This makes it a prime destination for anglers seeking a productive and scenic fishing experience.

• Secluded, Primitive Camping: For those who truly wish to "unplug," the primitive dispersed camping environment, with basic amenities like picnic tables, fire rings, and lantern posts, provides an authentic wilderness experience away from crowded, commercialized campgrounds. The emphasis on "Leave No Trace Principles" ensures a pristine environment.

• Picturesque Scenery: Nested in a "beautiful glen" beside the river, with steep bluffs and forested valleys, the campground offers "stunning views" and "vibrant foliage" in the fall, making it a visually rewarding destination.

• Pet-Friendly: As a National Forest site, it is generally pet-friendly (with dogs on a 6-foot leash in day-use areas), allowing visitors to bring their furry companions on their adventure.

As part of the Mark Twain National Forest, Boze Mill Float Camp operates under the regulations and fee structures of the U.S. Forest Service. As such, it does not typically offer commercial "promotions" or "special offers" in the way a private campground might. The primary "offer" is the inherent value of accessing and enjoying a designated National Scenic River and a beautiful, primitive camping area at a generally low cost or even for free.

Key considerations for visitors regarding cost and access include:

• Free Primitive Camping: Camping at the designated sites at Boze Mill Float Camp is generally free, which is a significant draw for budget-conscious outdoor enthusiasts. This low cost is a continuous "promotion" for those seeking an affordable overnight experience.

• No Hookups: It's important to note that these are primitive sites with "No hookups" for RVs, meaning campers must be self-sufficient regarding power and water. This is part of the primitive experience.

• America the Beautiful Passes: For frequent visitors to federal recreation sites across the country, various "America the Beautiful" passes might offer benefits or cover fees at other fee-based areas within National Forests, though specifically for primitive camping at Boze Mill, fees are usually minimal or non-existent.

• Pack In, Pack Out Policy: As a free, primitive site with no trash containers, visitors are expected to "pack out all of your garbage." This adherence to Leave No Trace principles contributes to maintaining the area's natural beauty, which is a value proposition in itself.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on any specific regulations, conditions, or minimal fees that may apply, it is always best to contact the Eleven Point Ranger District of the Mark Twain National Forest directly. They can provide current details to help you plan your visit to this unique natural and historical site.

Address: Ozark Township, MO 63935, USA (General location within the Mark Twain National Forest)

For detailed information and the most current conditions, it's best to contact the managing authority:

Eleven Point Ranger District

Mark Twain National Forest

#4 Confederate Ridge Rd. Doniphan, MO 63935

Phone: (573) 996-2153

For us Missourians, Boze Mill Float Camp represents the very essence of why we love our Ozarks. It’s a place that speaks to our adventurous spirit and our deep appreciation for unspoiled natural beauty, all wrapped up in a unique historical package.

We are a state proud of our floating traditions, and Boze Mill, situated on the Eleven Point National Scenic River, is a prime example of why. Whether we're seasoned paddlers or just looking for a peaceful day on the water, the ease of access from the river makes it an ideal stopping point for multi-day float trips. And for those who prefer to explore by land, the walk-in access ensures that this hidden gem is available to all, regardless of how they arrive.

The "sparkling blue pool" of Boze Mill Spring is a natural wonder that instantly refreshes the spirit, a true Missouri gem. Combined with the remnants of the historic grist mill, it offers a fascinating glimpse into the past, connecting us to the pioneers who once relied on these very waters. This blend of natural splendor and local history makes it a rich experience that goes beyond mere camping.

Furthermore, for those of us who prioritize genuine wilderness and quiet solitude, the primitive camping experience at Boze Mill is perfect. It’s a chance to truly "unplug," fish for bass and trout in pristine waters, and simply enjoy the peaceful sounds of the forest, away from the crowds. We understand and respect the "pack out all of your garbage" policy, as it's a small price to pay for maintaining the untouched beauty of our public lands.

In short, Boze Mill Float Camp is a "unique place" that embodies the rugged charm and natural allure of the Missouri Ozarks. It’s a testament to the wild and scenic rivers that define our state, offering an authentic, affordable, and deeply rewarding outdoor adventure that will surely become a cherished memory for any Missourian who visits.