Campground 1, Des Arc, MO

If you're a Missouri resident looking for a refreshing escape into nature, a convenient and welcoming option awaits you right here in the Ozarks. Campground 1, located in Des Arc, Missouri, offers a fantastic opportunity to reconnect with the outdoors without venturing too far from home. This article is your local guide to everything you need to know about Campground 1, highlighting its amenities, features, and why it’s a great choice for your next camping adventure.

Missouri boasts an incredible array of natural beauty, from rolling hills and lush forests to stunning rivers and serene lakes. Camping is a quintessential Missouri experience, allowing locals to fully immerse themselves in the state’s diverse landscapes. Campground 1 embodies this spirit, providing a comfortable and accessible base for exploring the region's outdoor delights. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the outdoor scene, this campground is designed to offer a pleasant and memorable stay.

Location and Accessibility

Campground 1 is conveniently situated at MO-143, Des Arc, MO 63636, USA. This location places it squarely within the scenic beauty of the Missouri Ozarks, a region renowned for its recreational opportunities. For local users across Missouri, reaching Campground 1 is typically a straightforward drive, making it an ideal spot for weekend getaways or longer vacations without the hassle of extensive travel. The address provides clear directions for GPS navigation, ensuring a smooth journey. While some rural roads may be encountered in the vicinity, the main access to the campground is generally well-maintained, allowing for easy arrival for various vehicle types, including RVs and those towing trailers. Its position means you're close enough to towns like Ellington for any last-minute supplies, yet far enough to feel truly immersed in nature.

Services Offered

Well-Maintained Facilities: Visitors frequently praise the campground for its cleanliness and overall upkeep. This includes common areas, campsites, and especially the restroom and shower facilities.
Spacious Shower and Bathrooms: Reviewers often highlight the roomy and clean shower and bathroom facilities, noting the presence of hot water with good pressure. This is a significant plus for campers seeking comfort and convenience.
Variety of Campsites: Campground 1 offers various types of sites to accommodate different camping preferences, including basic, electric, and family campsites. This flexibility allows campers to choose the setup that best suits their needs.
Potable Water Access: During the open season (typically April 1 to October 31), potable water is available at most sites, and during the off-season, a frost-free water spigot at the visitor/nature center provides access.
Reservation System: Campsites can be reserved in advance, which is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons. Reservations can be made online or via a toll-free number. Walk-up registrations may be available for unreserved sites.
On-Site Store: A park store is available, offering supplies that might be needed during your camping stay, adding to the convenience.
Pet-Friendly Policy: The campground welcomes pets, though they must be supervised and kept on leashes no longer than 10 feet at all times. Pet waste bags are often available.
Fire Pits and Grills: Individual campsites are typically equipped with fire pits and grills, allowing for classic campfire cooking and warmth.
Trash/Recycling Collection: The campground generally provides trash and recycling collection services, promoting a clean and responsible camping environment.

Features / Highlights

Cleanliness and Maintenance: A consistent highlight from visitors is the campground's commitment to cleanliness. The well-maintained grounds and facilities contribute significantly to a pleasant camping experience.
Hot Showers with Good Pressure: This feature is frequently mentioned as a standout, providing a comfortable and refreshing experience after a day of outdoor activities.
Roomy Camp Spots: While some spots may be more spacious than others, the general consensus is that many campsites offer ample room for setting up and relaxing.
Proximity to Local Amenities: The presence of a Dollar General store nearby is a practical advantage, allowing campers to easily pick up basic necessities without having to travel far.
Accessibility to Nature: Being in Des Arc, the campground offers easy access to the natural beauty of the Ozarks, including opportunities for exploring local trails and waterways.
Family-Friendly Environment: The campground is designed to be welcoming for families, with facilities and site options that cater to groups.
Quiet Atmosphere (Generally): While one review mentioned some road noise, generally, the campground is noted for its quiet and peaceful ambiance, particularly in the late season. It's a place where you can truly unwind and enjoy the sounds of nature.

Promotions or Special Offers

While specific, ongoing promotions for Campground 1 itself are not consistently advertised, Missouri state parks and affiliated reservation platforms often provide various deals that campers can take advantage of. These can include:

Extended Stay Discounts: Look for offers like "Stay 4 nights and save" or "Stay 7 nights this year and save," which often provide a percentage off your total stay, particularly during non-peak seasons or on specific check-in days (e.g., Sunday through Thursday).
Mid-Week Specials: Some promotions target mid-week stays, offering discounts for checking in on Sunday, Monday, or Tuesday.
First Responder/Military Discounts: Many campgrounds, including those within the Missouri State Parks system, offer discounts for first responders, military personnel, and veterans as a token of appreciation. It's always worth inquiring if a "HERO" discount is available.
Off-Season Savings: Camping during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) or the winter months might yield lower rates and special offers, as demand is typically lower.

It is highly recommended to check the official Missouri State Parks reservation website or call the campground directly when planning your trip to inquire about any current promotions or special offers that may apply to your desired dates and campsite type. These deals can help make your Missouri camping adventure even more affordable.

Contact Information

To plan your visit to Campground 1, or for any inquiries, you can reach out using the following information:

Address: MO-143, Des Arc, MO 63636, USA

For general inquiries or to make reservations, it's best to utilize the Missouri State Parks official website's reservation portal or their general contact numbers. While a direct phone number for Campground 1 specifically wasn't readily available, the statewide reservation system for Missouri State Parks can typically assist with bookings and detailed information for individual campgrounds. You can usually find a toll-free reservation number like 877-ICampMO (877-422-6766) or an online reservation system through the Missouri State Parks website. Checking these resources will provide the most up-to-date availability and reservation options.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For locals in Missouri, Campground 1 in Des Arc stands out as an excellent choice for a variety of reasons. First and foremost, its location in the heart of the Ozarks means easy accessibility for residents across the state, minimizing travel time and maximizing your outdoor enjoyment. You won't have to spend half your vacation on the road to reach a truly natural setting.

The consistent feedback regarding the cleanliness and excellent maintenance of the shower and bathroom facilities is a huge draw. No one wants to deal with subpar amenities when trying to relax in nature, and Campground 1 seems to deliver on this front, offering comfortable and hygienic facilities that enhance the overall camping experience. The availability of hot, good-pressure water is a small but significant comfort that many campers appreciate.

Furthermore, the variety of camp spots, including basic, electric, and family sites, ensures that whether you're pitching a tent for a rustic experience or bringing an RV for a more equipped stay, Campground 1 can accommodate your needs. The option for reservations provides peace of mind, especially during popular seasons, allowing you to plan your trip confidently.

While a previous review mentioned some road noise, the general tranquility observed in late September suggests that the campground still offers a peaceful atmosphere, particularly outside of peak times. The nearby Dollar General is a practical convenience, ensuring you can quickly grab forgotten essentials or last-minute snacks without disrupting your outdoor immersion.

Ultimately, Campground 1 offers a blend of natural beauty, convenient amenities, and a welcoming atmosphere that makes it perfectly suited for Missourians looking for a local, yet refreshing, outdoor escape. It's a place where you can unwind, enjoy the simple pleasures of camping, and create lasting memories with family and friends, all within the beautiful backyard of your home state.