Deer Leap Campground
Open seasonally April 1 through December 1. First-come, first-served with possible reservations for some sites. Payment accepted via debit or credit card at the on-site Digital Fee Machine.
Heat Advisory issued September 20 at 4:20AM CDT until September 20 at 7:00PM CDT by NWS Paducah KY
* WHAT...Heat index values up to 102 degrees are expected. * WHERE...all of southern Illinois, southwest Indiana, western Kentucky, and southeast Missouri. * WHEN...Until 7 PM CDT /8 PM EDT/ this evening. * IMPACTS...Hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat illnesses.
Forest Closure - Bridge Replacement at Paddy Creek
Paddy Creek Recreation Area, National Forest System Road 211, Big Piney Trailhead Spur Trail (03-016-D), Paddy Creek Trail Loop (Trail 03-016-C), and a section of the Big Piney Trail (03-016-A) will be closed from December 1, 2026 until December 31, 2027 while a bank on the creek is restabilized…
Forest Order - Trail 119 Closure (Chadwick Motorized Trail System)
The closure of Forest Trail 119 in the Chadwick Motorized Trail System will serve to ensure the protection of people who visit the Mark Twain National Forest by preventing access to the trail during the removal of a culvert. The Closure Order and Map can be accessed in the green links below.
About
Deer Leap Recreation Area occupies a peaceful stretch along the east bank of the Current River in Ripley County, Missouri. The campground offers seven sites (four single, three double) spread through a stand of pines that provide welcome shade and a sense of privacy. Each site includes a fire ring, picnic table, and lantern post, with vault toilets and drinking water available nearby. The location caters to river enthusiasts with a single-lane concrete boat launch suitable for small motorized boats and a separate floater/tuber access point at the end of the campground. Canoes, kayaks, and tubes can launch from either location. While outfitter-guides occasionally use the non-motorized launch, the campground sees less traffic than other Current River access points, making it appealing for campers seeking solitude. All facilities meet ADA accessibility standards, including tables, fire rings, pedestal grills, toilets, and a drinking water faucet. The campground operates seasonally from April 1 through December 1 on a first-come, first-served basis, though some sites may be reservable.
Directions
From US Highway 160 in Doniphan, MO, take Highway Y north for approximately 5 miles. Turn left onto Forest Road 4349. After 1 mile, the road splits at a Y intersection; veer right to reach Deer Leap Campground and floater access.
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $12 - $20 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | 28ft |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | — |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (573) 364-4621 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | Yes |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | None |
Useful Links
| USFS Deer Leap Recreation Area |
Photos
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