Turner Mill South Campground

For those of us in Missouri who yearn for a truly unspoiled outdoor experience, where the sounds of nature prevail and the stresses of daily life simply fade away, Turner Mill South Campground offers an ideal retreat. Nestled within the expansive Mark Twain National Forest in Goebel Township, this campground is a testament to the raw beauty of the Ozarks, providing a peaceful and picturesque setting for genuine outdoor enthusiasts. It's the kind of place where you can truly disconnect and immerse yourself in the natural grandeur that our state proudly offers.

As one local reviewer enthusiastically shared, "Beautiful place the mill is across the river." Another simply stated, "Beautiful and peaceful." These sentiments perfectly capture the essence of Turner Mill South Campground. It's a rustic yet inviting spot, celebrated for its stunning natural surroundings and the quiet ambiance it provides. Whether you're looking to cast a line in the Eleven Point River, embark on a scenic float trip, or simply relax by a campfire under the stars, this campground delivers an authentic Missouri outdoor adventure without the crowds or excessive amenities of more developed sites. It’s a place for those who appreciate the simple, profound beauty of nature and the tranquility it brings.

Turner Mill South Campground is located in Goebel Township, MO 65606, USA, with a specific GPS coordinate often listed as QP7J+XW. This places it on the right bank of the Eleven Point National Wild and Scenic River, a designated national treasure within the Mark Twain National Forest. Its location is approximately 4.9 miles downriver from Greer Crossing and near the historic Turner Mill itself.

Accessing Turner Mill South requires navigating Forest Service roads, which can be gravel and hilly, but are generally passable. From Alton, MO, you'll take Highway 19 North for about 2 miles to Highway AA, then turn right (east) onto AA and travel about 4 miles to County Road 127/Forest Service Road 3153. Turning left onto CR 127/FS 3153, you'll drive approximately 4 miles to reach Turner Mill South. While it feels wonderfully remote, this routing ensures that the campground is reachable for those prepared for a scenic drive through the forest.

This secluded location is a major part of its appeal, offering a true escape into nature. Despite its rustic feel, the presence of a single-lane concrete boat launch makes it highly accessible for those bringing canoes, kayaks, or rafts to explore the Eleven Point River. This balance of seclusion and functionality makes it an ideal spot for locals seeking a genuine Ozarks wilderness experience.

Turner Mill South Campground provides a more rustic and minimalist camping experience, focusing on essential facilities to complement its natural setting. It is part of the Mark Twain National Forest system, and as such, adheres to specific guidelines regarding amenities. Here are the services you can expect:

• Dispersed Campsites: The campground offers five designated campsites. Each site is primitive in nature, meaning there are no hookups for water, electricity, or sewer. Campers must be self-sufficient and prepared for off-grid camping.

• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each of the five campsites is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring, allowing campers to enjoy outdoor meals and traditional campfires. Only dead and downed wood may be collected for fires.

• Lantern Posts: Adding to the rustic convenience, each campsite also includes a lantern post.

• Vault Toilets: A centrally located vault toilet facility is available at the campground, providing basic restroom services for campers.

• Single-Lane Concrete Boat Launch: A significant amenity for river enthusiasts, the campground features a concrete boat launch, providing easy access to the Eleven Point River for canoes, kayaks, and small non-motorized boats (or those with motors up to 25 hp).

• Limited Day Use Area: In addition to the campsites, there is a limited day-use area for visitors who wish to enjoy the river access or picnic without overnight camping.

• Designated Parking: Parking is available at the site, with space for approximately 12 vehicles (including some suitable for vehicles with trailers).

It's important to note that potable water is NOT available at Turner Mill South. Campers must bring all their drinking water or have a reliable filtering system. There are also no trash receptacles; all trash must be packed out, adhering to Leave No Trace principles.

• Stunning Natural Beauty: Repeatedly described as "beautiful," the campground is set amidst the scenic Ozark hills, offering picturesque views and a tranquil environment. The Eleven Point River, with its clear waters and surrounding bluffs, is a major highlight.

• Proximity to Historic Turner Mill: The remains of the historic Turner Mill and Spring are located across the river (Turner Mill North Access), easily viewable from the campground. This adds a unique historical dimension to the natural setting.

• Direct Eleven Point River Access: With a dedicated boat launch, the campground provides immediate and convenient access to the Eleven Point National Wild and Scenic River. This is ideal for floating, fishing, and enjoying the river's pristine waters.

• Peaceful and Secluded Atmosphere: Reviewers consistently praise the campground for being "peaceful." Its rustic nature and somewhat remote location ensure a quiet escape from crowded areas, allowing for true relaxation and connection with nature.

• Primitive Camping Experience: For those who prefer a less developed camping experience, the dispersed campsites with basic amenities (picnic tables, fire rings, lantern posts, vault toilet) offer an authentic wilderness feel.

• No Fees Required: A significant advantage of Turner Mill South Campground is that there are no fees required for camping, making it a very affordable option for outdoor enthusiasts.

• Dog-Friendly: Dogs are permitted at the campground but must be kept on a six-foot leash at all times, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors and wildlife.

• Year-Round Accessibility: The campground is open year-round, from January to December, allowing visitors to experience the beauty of the Eleven Point River in all four seasons.

As Turner Mill South Campground is a designated site within the Mark Twain National Forest, it operates under the management of the USDA Forest Service. A key feature of this specific campground is that there are no fees required for camping at this site. This means that the "promotion" is essentially the free access to this beautiful and peaceful camping area.

Given its public land status, you won't find traditional commercial promotions or discount codes as you would with privately owned campgrounds. The value lies in the unadulterated access to nature and the basic amenities provided without a charge.

Therefore, the primary "special offer" of Turner Mill South Campground is its affordability and the opportunity to experience a high-quality outdoor setting without the financial commitment often associated with recreational areas. It's a testament to the public lands system and its aim to provide accessible outdoor recreation for all.

As Turner Mill South Campground is managed by the Mark Twain National Forest, direct contact for campground-specific inquiries would typically go through the relevant Ranger District office.

• Address: QP7J+XW, Goebel Township, MO 65606, USA (This is a Plus Code; for navigation, use the specific directions from Alton or look for "Turner Mill South River Access, Mark Twain National Forest" on mapping services.)

• Nearest Ranger District Office for general inquiries about the Eleven Point River area:

  • Eleven Point/Doniphan Ranger District

  • Address: #66 Confederate Ridge Road, Doniphan, MO 63935

  • Phone: (573) 996-2153

  • Hours: 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM, Monday to Friday (Closed 1:00 PM - 1:30 PM for lunch; closed on federal holidays)

Please note that Turner Mill South Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis, and reservations are not typically accepted for this site. The Ranger District office can provide general information about forest regulations, river conditions, and other nearby recreational opportunities.

For us Missourians, Turner Mill South Campground stands out as an exceptionally suitable destination for experiencing the pure, unadulterated beauty of our state. Its location within the Mark Twain National Forest, specifically on the renowned Eleven Point National Wild and Scenic River, makes it a true natural gem right in our backyard. We value places where we can truly escape the urban bustle, and Turner Mill South delivers on that promise, offering a "beautiful and peaceful" retreat that feels worlds away yet is still accessible.

The primitive nature of the campground, with its basic amenities like picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets, appeals directly to those of us who appreciate genuine outdoor living. It encourages self-reliance and a deeper connection with nature, which is a core part of Missouri's outdoor heritage. For float trip enthusiasts, the direct river access and concrete boat launch are invaluable, allowing for seamless adventures on one of the state's most cherished waterways. Furthermore, the ability to camp for free is a significant benefit, making quality outdoor recreation accessible to everyone, promoting more frequent and spontaneous trips.

Whether you're looking for a quiet weekend of fishing, a launching point for an Eleven Point River float, or simply a serene spot to unwind and reconnect with the natural world, Turner Mill South Campground offers an authentic Ozarks experience. It’s a testament to the pristine landscapes and rich history found within our state, making it an ideal choice for any Missourian seeking a genuine, refreshing outdoor escape.