Missouri / Carter County / Ozark National Scenic Riverways

Big Tree Campground

Open — Open year-round. Reservations available through recreation.gov. Payment accepted only via Scan & Pay on the recreation.gov mobile app.

About

Big Tree Campground is a small, riverside backcountry campground located in Ozark National Scenic Riverways, approximately 20 minutes south of Van Buren, Missouri. The campground features 7 campsites, including 6 standard sites and 1 cluster site, all positioned right along the Current River. This prime location provides campers with stunning river views and easy swimming access throughout the year. The campground is accessed via a half-mile gravel road off Highway Z, providing a more remote camping experience while still being relatively accessible. Campers should note that no water is available on-site, so visitors must bring all necessary drinking water. Vault toilets are available year-round. The campground allows RVs and trailers as specified in park regulations, and fires are permitted in designated fire rings. Big Tree Campground operates under the backcountry campground system at Ozark National Scenic Riverways. As of April 15, 2025, payment is accepted only through the Scan & Pay system on the recreation.gov mobile app. Sites are available for reservation through recreation.gov. Standard sites cost $10 per night and the cluster site is $25 per night. The area experiences hot, humid summers with temperatures ranging from 75-100°F and cold winters from 0-50°F with intermittent freezing and snow.

Directions

From Van Buren, take Highway 60 south to Highway 103. Turn southeast onto Highway 103 and follow for roughly 4 miles. Turn south onto Highway Z and follow for about 7.5 miles, then turn east onto a gravel road. Follow the gravel road for about a half mile to the campground.

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