Roubidoux Spring Campground & RV Park

For those in Missouri seeking a straightforward, peaceful, and affordable camping experience, Roubidoux Spring Campground & RV Park in Waynesville offers a refreshing alternative to bustling resort-style parks. Tucked away between a picturesque mountain and the serene Roubidoux Creek, this campground provides a truly quiet escape where nature's presence is undeniable. It's a place where you can step away from the noise and embrace the simple joys of outdoor living, often accompanied by local wildlife.

Roubidoux Spring Campground & RV Park is particularly favored by RVers due to its full hookup sites and extremely competitive pricing, making it an excellent choice for both short overnight stays and longer-term camping, as attested by visitors who have stayed for a month or more. While it's described as a "different kind of basic campground," with a mostly rock surface and a focus on essential amenities, it delivers on its promise of a quiet and well-serviced spot. The focus here is on providing a clean, functional, and peaceful base from which to explore the surrounding natural beauty and the charming historic town of Waynesville. For those who prioritize affordability and a tranquil setting, Roubidoux Spring Campground & RV Park is a hidden gem in the heart of the Ozarks.

Roubidoux Spring Campground & RV Park is conveniently located at 161 Revere Ln, Waynesville, MO 65583, USA. This address places it right in the heart of Waynesville, Missouri, offering a unique blend of natural seclusion and urban accessibility. The campground's setting, nestled between a mountain and the Roubidoux Creek, immediately immerses visitors in the scenic beauty of the Ozarks.

For Missouri residents, the campground is easily accessible from various parts of the state. Waynesville is situated along Historic Route 66 and is very close to Interstate 44 (I-44), making it a convenient stop for travelers passing through or a strategic base for exploring the central Ozarks. From Springfield, MO, the drive is approximately 1 hour and 13 minutes. Jefferson City is about 1 hour and 18 minutes away, and Columbia is around 1 hour and 44 minutes. Even from St. Louis, the journey is manageable at approximately 1 hour and 53 minutes.

A significant advantage of this location is its walkability to Waynesville's attractions. The campground is described as being "just a short walk from both Roubidoux Park and Roy Laughlin Park," and "Historic Downtown Waynesville is just up the road." This means campers can easily stroll into town to explore local shops, restaurants, and historical sites without needing to drive. This proximity to amenities is a distinct benefit, especially given that some campers note the closest external food options are about a 15-20 minute drive from other, more remote campgrounds in the broader Lake of the Ozarks area. The entrance turn off the main road is noted by some larger RVs as being tight, a "180 degree turn," so taking it wide and slow is recommended, but it's very "doable." The overall quiet setting despite being "right in town" is a testament to its clever placement.

• Full Hookup RV Sites: The campground prides itself on offering full hookups at most, if not all, campsites, including water, sewer, and electric (20, 30, and 50 amp options). This is a major convenience for RVers, allowing for a comfortable and self-contained stay.

• Restrooms and Showers: Heated men's and women's restroom facilities are available, including an ADA-accessible shower and bathroom. Electrical outlets are provided in these facilities. While some reviews mention a "no thrill" or "basic" campground, the presence of clean and functional restrooms and showers is a significant amenity.

• Potable Water: Water connections are included in the full hookups, ensuring campers have access to fresh water at their sites.

• Dumpster/Trash Disposal: Designated dumpsters are provided at the entrance to the campground for household trash disposal, with strict rules against burning trash in fire rings or disposing of animal parts.

• Fire Rings: A few sites are noted to have fire pits provided by park staff, allowing for small campfires at the park's discretion. Rules emphasize that no household trash or aluminum cans are to be burned.

• On-Site Payment / City Hall Payment: Payment for stays must be made in advance at the Waynesville Municipal Center (100 Tremont Center, Waynesville) or through a self-registration box at the campground for after-hours arrivals. Online reservation applications are also available.

• Pet-Friendly: Pets are welcome at the campground, with specific rules regarding leashing, supervision, and cleaning up after them. Pets must remain under control and supervision of the owner, not be chained to campground fixtures, and owners must be present when animals are outside.

• Camp Host: A camp host is typically on site, usually from approximately April 15th to October 15th, acting as a representative of the Parks & Recreation Department with authority to enforce rules and assist campers.

• Wi-Fi / Cell Service: Some reviews indicate varied cell service (e.g., AT&T good, Verizon spotty), and while WiFi is mentioned as available, its quality is not explicitly detailed by most reviews. It’s best to be prepared for potentially limited connectivity if strong internet is a necessity.

• Extremely Affordable Rates: A significant highlight mentioned by multiple visitors is the low cost per night, week, or month, making it one of the most budget-friendly options for full hookup camping in the area.

• Quiet and Serene Atmosphere: Nestled "between a mountain and a creek," the campground is celebrated for its quiet and peaceful environment, providing a true escape from urban noise. Most campers are respectful and keep things down.

• Abundant Wildlife: Deer and turkeys are frequently seen wandering around the campground, offering delightful opportunities for wildlife viewing right from your campsite.

• Spacious Sites: Reviews note a "decent amount of space between sites," providing a sense of privacy even though the campground itself is mostly rock/gravel. Sites are generally flat and graveled, suitable for RVs.

• Proximity to Roubidoux Creek: Being located "on the beautiful Roubidoux" creek offers scenic views and opportunities for stream fishing (Missouri fishing license and trout stamp required).

• Walking Distance to Parks and Downtown: The campground is a short walk from Roubidoux Park and Roy Laughlin Park, as well as Historic Downtown Waynesville, providing easy access to attractions, shops, and restaurants without driving. This includes the Pulaski County Farmers Market held at a building on the grounds.

• Roubidoux Spring and Cave System: Nearby Roubidoux Spring is a significant natural feature, a second-magnitude freshwater spring. The spring and its cave system are a popular spot for certified cave divers (check-in and certification required at Pulaski County 911 Center).

• Historic Route 66 Access: Situated along Historic Route 66, the campground offers easy access for those exploring this iconic American highway.

• Year-Round Operation: The campground is open all year, offering flexibility for stays in any season, though some amenities like water may be shut off during winter.

Roubidoux Spring Campground & RV Park, being a city-run park by the City of Waynesville, operates with very transparent and already competitive pricing, which serves as its primary "special offer" to campers. Rather than temporary promotions, its consistent low rates are the main draw:

• Affordable Daily Rate: The nightly rate is notably low, around $35.00 (effective 1/1/2025; some older reviews reference $20), making it an excellent option for short stays or an overnight stop.

• Cost-Effective Weekly Rate: For longer visits, the weekly rate of approximately $175.00 (effective 1/1/2025; older reviews reference $100) provides significant savings compared to daily rates.

• Budget-Friendly Monthly Rate: The monthly rate, around $500.00 (effective 1/1/2025; older reviews reference $300), is particularly attractive for those seeking extended stays, offering substantial savings and making it a favorite among veteran RVers.

• Off-Season Discount: During the off-season, typically when water services are shut off (e.g., after November 1st), the nightly rate may drop further, offering an even more economical option for prepared campers.

It’s important to note that July, August, and September are often booked near capacity, so calling City Hall at (573) 774-6171 to confirm availability is crucial before submitting an application. All reservations must be paid before arrival at the park.

For the most up-to-date pricing and to inquire about availability, it is always recommended to check the official City of Waynesville website or call the Waynesville City Hall directly.

For reservations, inquiries, or to learn more about Roubidoux Spring Campground & RV Park, please use the following contact details:

• Address: 161 Revere Ln, Waynesville, MO 65583, USA

• Phone: (573) 774-6171 (This number connects to Waynesville City Hall, which manages the campground reservations and information.)

• Mobile Phone: +1 573-774-6171 (Same number as above, confirming mobile accessibility)

• Official Website: For reservation applications, rules, and updated rates, it is best to visit the City of Waynesville's official website and navigate to the Parks & Recreation section, specifically the Roubidoux Spring Campground & RV Park page. Reservations require submitting an application and payment in advance.

It is highly recommended to call the Waynesville City Hall, especially for peak season bookings (July, August, September), to confirm availability before completing your reservation.

For Missouri residents, Roubidoux Spring Campground & RV Park in Waynesville presents an outstanding and highly suitable option for a local getaway, whether it's for a quick overnight stop or an extended stay. Its prime location in Waynesville, coupled with its unique features, makes it a compelling choice for a variety of campers within the state.

Firstly, its accessibility from major Missouri cities like St. Louis, Kansas City, and Springfield via I-44 and Historic Route 66 means less time driving and more time relaxing. This convenience makes it an ideal spot for spontaneous weekend trips or even a mid-week break, without requiring extensive travel planning.

Secondly, the campground's defining characteristic—its affordability—is a significant draw. The consistently low daily, weekly, and monthly rates, especially for full hookup sites, offer exceptional value that is hard to beat in the region. This financial friendliness makes quality camping accessible to more Missouri families and individuals, including those on a budget or looking for long-term options. For veterans and those seeking a simple, no-frills yet fully functional camping experience, this campground is frequently lauded as an "awesome resource."

Beyond the practical benefits, the natural setting contributes significantly to its local appeal. Nestled "between a mountain and a creek," the campground offers a quiet and peaceful ambiance, a stark contrast to the hustle of city life. The regular sightings of deer and turkeys meandering through the sites add a touch of authentic Ozark charm, providing enjoyable wildlife encounters right outside your RV or tent. The direct access to Roubidoux Creek allows for relaxing stream fishing, and the proximity to Roubidoux Spring and its unique cave system offers opportunities for exploration and even cave diving for the adventurous.

Finally, the ability to walk to downtown Waynesville adds a layer of convenience and local flavor. Campers can easily explore the historic district, visit local parks, or enjoy a meal at a local eatery, blending outdoor recreation with community engagement. This combination of affordability, accessibility, natural beauty, and local charm makes Roubidoux Spring Campground & RV Park a truly suitable and highly recommended destination for Missouri residents seeking a genuine and memorable camping experience close to home.