Walk-In Campground

Nestled deep within the breathtaking Ozark National Scenic Riverways, Round Spring Campground in Eminence, Missouri, offers a quintessential Ozarks camping experience. This is not a "walk-in" campground in the sense of being undeveloped or inaccessible; rather, it's a well-maintained, developed campground designed to provide a comfortable yet immersive natural retreat. Operated by the National Park Service, Round Spring is a gateway to some of Missouri's most pristine waterways and stunning landscapes, making it a beloved destination for locals seeking adventure and tranquility.

Round Spring Campground truly delivers on the promise of a peaceful, intimate encounter with nature. Reviews consistently highlight its well-maintained sites, clean facilities, and the serene sounds of the Current River. It's a place where you can unwind by a campfire, listen to the gentle flow of the river, and perhaps even spot wild horses across the water. With easy access to the famous Round Spring itself, the Current River, and a network of nearby trails connecting to other state parks, Round Spring Campground serves as a popular hub for everything from exhilarating float trips to serene birdwatching. Whether you prefer a basic tent site or the convenience of an electric hookup, Round Spring provides a welcoming base for your Ozarks exploration.

Round Spring Campground is located on State Highway 19, approximately 12 to 13 miles north of Eminence, Missouri, and about 15 miles south of Salem, Missouri. While the provided address of "8H8X+4X, Round Spring, MO 65560, USA" is a Plus Code, the physical address provided by the National Park Service is 13209 Round Spring Campground Rd, Eminence, MO 65466. This places it directly within the Ozark National Scenic Riverways, a protected wild river system that encompasses the Current and Jacks Fork Rivers.

Accessibility to Round Spring Campground is straightforward. Highway 19 is a state highway, ensuring paved access for both RVs and trailers. The campground is divided into different sections: standard sites are located at the south end of a two-lane bridge, while group sites are situated between and north of the bridges. This well-defined layout makes navigation easy upon arrival. Its central location within the Ozarks makes it a convenient drive for many Missouri residents looking to access the Current River for floating, fishing, or swimming. Nearby towns like Eminence and Salem offer essential services, supplies, and outfitters for float trips, ensuring a seamless outdoor adventure. The campground's strategic position provides a balance between immersion in nature and practical accessibility.

• Developed Campsites: Offers 55 standard campsites suitable for tents or RVs. Sites are typically flat and gravelly, with paved parking spurs.
• Electric Hookups: Six of the campsites offer electric hookups (20, 30, and 50 amp service) and water hookups, providing modern conveniences for RV and trailer campers.
• Group Sites: Nine dedicated group sites are available, accommodating larger parties (up to 45 people for some) and are tent-only, though some may allow small trailers.
• Flush Toilets: Clean flush toilets are available year-round.
• Hot Showers: Shower facilities are available, typically from April 15 through October 15, providing a refreshing convenience.
• Vault Toilets: Additional vault toilets are available year-round throughout the campground.
• Dump Station: A sanitary dump station is located at the campground entrance, available year-round for RV users.
• Potable Water: Drinking water is accessible throughout the campground.
• Picnic Tables & Fire Rings: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring with a grate for cooking. Many also include lantern posts.
• Camp Store: A seasonal concessionaire store is available on-site, offering ice, firewood, and other essential camping supplies.
• Amphitheater: An outdoor amphitheater hosts ranger-led campfire programs during the summer months.
• Trash/Recycling Collection: Year-round trash and recycling collection services are provided.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are allowed at campsites but must be kept on a leash and under control at all times.
• Reservations: All sites are available by reservation only via Recreation.gov or by phone, though same-day reservations are often possible.

• Proximity to Current River: Offers easy, direct access to the crystal-clear Current River, renowned for excellent canoeing, tubing, swimming, and fishing. Many outfitters are nearby.
• Access to Round Spring: Located right next to the impressive Round Spring, a 55-foot deep circular spring that is a significant natural landmark. An accessible paved trail leads to the spring.
• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Often cited as one of the most family-friendly campgrounds in the area, offering a quiet and intimate nature experience.
• Clean and Well-Maintained Facilities: Consistently praised for very clean bathrooms and showers, which are regularly serviced.
• Diverse Campsite Options: Caters to various camping styles with a mix of basic tent sites, electric hookup sites for RVs, and spacious group sites.
• Ranger Programs: During summer months, park rangers offer educational and engaging evening programs at the campground amphitheater.
• Scenic Hiking Trails: Nearby trails connect to Echo Bluff State Park and Current River State Park, making it a popular hub for hikers.
• Wildlife Viewing: Opportunities to spot local wildlife, including possible glimpses of wild horses across the river, otters, and various bird species.
• Historical Significance: The Round Spring area itself was a Missouri State Park from 1924 until 1970 when it was donated to the National Park Service, adding a layer of history to the natural beauty.
• Year-Round Operation: The campground is open daily year-round, though some amenities (like flush toilets/showers) may be seasonal.

As Round Spring Campground is operated by the National Park Service as part of the Ozark National Scenic Riverways, its pricing and any "promotions" are generally structured differently than private campgrounds. There aren't typically special offers like discounts or package deals in the retail sense. Instead, fees are standardized for different site types and seasons.

• Standard Fees: Fees are set by the National Park Service. For example, summer electric sites are typically around $30.00 per night, non-electric sites are $20.00 per night, and group sites are $140.00 (as of current available data, subject to change).
• Seasonal Pricing: Fees for electric and non-electric sites are in effect from April 15 to October 15, with potentially different rates during the off-season.
• Reservations: All sites at Round Spring Campground are available by reservation only. Reservations can be made online through www.recreation.gov or by calling 877-444-6777. While reservations are required, same-day bookings are often possible if sites are available. A reservation fee (e.g., $3) may apply when booking through Recreation.gov.
• America the Beautiful Passes: Holders of certain America the Beautiful National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Passes (e.g., Senior Pass, Access Pass) may receive discounts on camping fees, as this is a federal campground. It's advisable to check the specific benefits of your pass.

For the most accurate and current information on fees, availability, and specific reservation policies, it is always recommended to visit the official National Park Service website for Ozark National Scenic Riverways or Recreation.gov, or to call the Round Spring Visitor Center during operating hours. Their contact numbers are (573) 858-3297 (Round Spring Visitor Center, summer active) or (573) 323-4236 (main office for general inquiries).

Physical Address: 13209 Round Spring Campground Rd, Eminence, MO 65466, USA

Mailing Address: P.O. Box 490, Van Buren, MO 63965

Phone (Round Spring Visitor Center, summer active): (573) 858-3297

Phone (Ozark National Scenic Riverways main office for general inquiries): (573) 323-4236

Reservations: www.recreation.gov or 1-877-444-6777

Email: OZAR_Campground_Operations@nps.gov

For Missourians, Round Spring Campground is an invaluable local gem, offering direct access to one of our state's most treasured natural wonders: the Ozark National Scenic Riverways. It's more than just a place to set up camp; it’s a living classroom and a recreational paradise right in our own backyard. As a developed campground managed by the National Park Service, it provides a well-maintained and reliable option for experiencing the pristine beauty of the Current River and its unique karstic landscape.

Its suitability for locals stems from several key factors. First, its central location within the Ozarks makes it an accessible drive from many parts of the state, eliminating the need for long-distance travel to find world-class outdoor recreation. Second, the combination of basic, electric, and group sites caters to a wide range of camping preferences and budgets, ensuring that whether you're a seasoned RV traveler or a family with a tent, you'll find a comfortable spot. The consistently clean facilities, including flush toilets and hot showers (seasonally), provide essential comforts that enhance the outdoor experience, making it approachable even for those newer to camping.

Most importantly, Round Spring offers unparalleled opportunities to connect with Missouri's natural heritage. From floating the crystal-clear Current River to exploring the stunning Round Spring and participating in educational ranger programs, there's always something to engage and inspire. The chance to spot local wildlife, like wild horses, adds a magical touch to any visit. This campground is a perfect local hub for creating cherished family memories, embarking on a tranquil solo retreat, or sharing an adventure with friends, all while celebrating the natural beauty that makes Missouri so special.