Lake Camping Near Van Buren, Missouri, US: 12 Best Lake Campsites 2025

Looking for the perfect camping experience near Van Buren, Missouri? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 500 options available, you're sure to find the ideal campsite that suits your lake-loving heart. From stunning lakeside views to serene fishing spots, our campsites have it all. Check out top-rated campsites like Spring Lake Ranch (522 reviews), Wine Trail Wilderness (291 reviews), or Arcadia Valley Outdoors Land (251 reviews). With popular amenities like showers, trash disposal, and campfires, your camping experience will be both comfortable and convenient. And with activities ranging from exploring historic sites to fishing and wind sports, there's something for everyone. Plus, with an average price of $25 per night and options as low as $9, camping has never been more affordable. So pack your bags and get ready to embark on an unforgettable camping adventure!

98% (1K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Looking for the perfect camping experience near Van Buren, Missouri? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 500 options available, you're sure to find the ideal campsite that suits your lake-loving heart. From stunning lakeside views to serene fishing spots, our campsites have it all. Check out top-rated campsites like Spring Lake Ranch (522 reviews), Wine Trail Wilderness (291 reviews), or Arcadia Valley Outdoors Land (251 reviews). With popular amenities like showers, trash disposal, and campfires, your camping experience will be both comfortable and convenient. And with activities ranging from exploring historic sites to fishing and wind sports, there's something for everyone. Plus, with an average price of $25 per night and options as low as $9, camping has never been more affordable. So pack your bags and get ready to embark on an unforgettable camping adventure!

98% (1K)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Arcadia Valley Outdoors Land

98%

(839)

44mi from Van Buren · 37 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Ironton, MO

A wooded, more private camping experience with unique site designs and natural elements. Wood-burning sauna and hot tub available for guest use. Primitive Camping Van/vehicle Camping Small Trailers Glamping Bike Trails, Hiking, creek sit-in' on site! Best of the midwest biking, hiking, Ozark Trail, rock climbing Elephant Rocks Park, Johnson Shut-ins and more swimming holes nearby! Wood for sale on site, $5 per bundle, Fire starters also available. Ask us about our "Really Good At Camping" merchandise. We have shirts, mugs & wine tumblers! *Cash Only* at this time. We Have free stickers! *For camp site locations please refer to our map in the campsite listing photos. We are located just west of the Ironton Water Works Plant and the Shepherd Mountain Lake dam. Turn right after the dam, drive through Shepherd Mountain Lake Park. If our "campground guests only" gate if it is closed, and please close gate behind you. Thank you! No Hook Ups No swimming in the lake and no outside boats, but we have boats for campers to use free of charge! General Store and restroom facilities/showers coming soon!

2. Arcadia Valley BaseCamp

97%

(45)

46mi from Van Buren · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Arcadia, MO

BaseCamp is s respite nestled into the Arcadia Valley, just miles from Elephant Rocks and Johnsons Shut-Ins State Parks and several conservation areas. With nearly 70 acres surrounded by Mark Twain National Forest, there are many opportunities for hiking, botanical exploration, licensed fishing, mountain biking, equine accessible trails, and much more without ever leaving BaseCamp. There is a small pond on the property with a walking trail and a rock garden that doubles as a small creek when rains are heavy. With camping options ranging from backpacking and tent camping to van dwellers and Tiny House glamping, all are welcome. Adventure begins at Base Camp!

3. Four Creeks Ranch Campground

97%

(438)

17mi from Van Buren · 19 sites · Tents, RVs · Ellington, MO

Three crystal clear creeks to swim, wade, hunt rocks, or just relax. We have several tent sites right on the creeks and RV sites close for just a short walk for swimming fun. Close to Mark Twain National Forest, for hiking Rocky Creek trail Head, Blue Springs trail to Rocky Falls, Black River and the Current for floating, Kayaking or fishing. Clearwater Lake for boat rentals or Jet skies. Sites to see, Blue Springs, Big Springs Johnson Shut Inns, Elephant Rock, Rocky Falls, and many state parks to explore. We are also only three miles from the town of Ellington, MO for your shopping needs, several restaurants and antiquing.

4. Myc’s Forest

21mi from Van Buren · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Grandin, MO

You can enjoy your time at Myc’s Forest by wandering through the trees, fishing at the pond, or chatting with friends by the fire. During spring there is a wide variety of wildflowers along with edible berries. There are three primitive campsites on the property. Each campsite is provided with a fire pit and trash can. We do not provide bathrooms so either dig a hole or bring your own portable toilet. Five of ten acres are open for campers to roam while the other five is where my partner and I have our off-grid home, garden, and pets. PROPERTY RULES: -Wear swim shoes in the pond -Leave no trace -Keep pets on leash -Fires only in designated pits -No glass bottles

5. 2 Broke Girls Glampground

100%

(8)

40mi from Van Buren · 5 sites · RVs, Lodging · Puxico, MO

Welcome to 2 Broke Girls Glampground at Wappapello Lake. We are a small, privately owned campground, surrounded by nature and wildlife. We offer unique vacation rentals, annual, monthly and nightly campsites. Each of our vacation rentals and campsites are uniquely designed and conveniently located just seconds away from Rockwood Beach and Boat Ramp.

6. Williams Camp : Eleven Point River

98%

(30)

20mi from Van Buren · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · MO

Learn more about this land: You'll have a private place of your own, with access to some of Missouri states most hidden springs, rivers, waterfalls, fishing, hunting, hiking, (some of the best) horseback riding trails, and historic landmarks. Rather you're after solitude or sport, this area has you covered. Kayak, canoe, and shuttle rental, service is available at hufstedlers.com and is a short 11.5 mile drive. Beautiful eleven point river offers blue, red, and white ribbon, spring fed trout/walleye water. If you're looking to float the river, be sure to research the many springs on the way down your trip and the historic mill communities that once flourished there. These are perfect opportunities to take a break, eat a meal, and explore the area. Most also will have public bathrooms. Unless there are multiple reservations, you will be allowed to hookup/stay at whichever site is the easiest for you to get parked at. Maps of the area and things to do will continue to be updated as they are developed. In the mean time, a great resource is MissouriScenicRivers.com. We do not live near this site so this is an exclusively non-hosted listing.

7. The Holliday Landing on the Lake

94%

(65)

32mi from Van Buren · 44 sites · Tents, RVs · Greenville, MO

Learn more about this land: Holliday Landing Resort & Marina offers a variety of beautiful campsites to meet your camping needs. There are 11 sites with water, electric, and sewer hook-ups, 28 sites with water and electric, there is a secluded mini-loop where tent campers can enjoy the same access and amenities. All water and electric campsites have 30/120 amp electric service and frost-free water. Guests may use the modern restroom facility with showers. A dump station is available for your use. Each non-primitive site has a gravel pad for RV campers and parking, a grassy area for tent camping, visiting, or playing, a picnic table, and a fire ring with grill. Each primitive site has a grassy area, picnic table, and fire ring with no designated parking area. For your convenience, camping guests may use the boat ramp and may rent a boat slip for a $10 nightly fee. Kids and adults alike can play together at our playground area. Camping guests also have access to an inground swimming pool at no extra charge.

8. Robert's Redneck Retreat, LLC

100%

(13)

26mi from Van Buren · 3 sites · Lodging · Doniphan, MO

Robert's Redneck Retreat is located on about 16 acres of pasture and 58 acres of forested land with a creek and trails running through it. Our property also adjoins 1200 acres of the Mark Twain National Forest, dotted with springs, trails, rivers, lakes, ponds and breathtaking views. We have three small cabins on the property that are spaced out for privacy. There are also potential for tent camp sites.My husband and I love nature, farming, gardening, and sharing time with like-minded individuals. Our dream is small scale hobby farming adjoined with cabin rentals, allowing trees to regrow in places that were once pasture in order to do our part to help maintain habitat for wild animals and plants. It is a balance that we love and it is our pleasure to share this property with you. We are new here, but we are not new to the camping world; we have been helping campers have positive experiences since 2013 and already have over 170 positive reviews on Airbnb. We would love for Hip Campers to come experience our brand of cabin camping, with farm and forest experiences.A little history of the surrounding area: The Mark Twain National Forest was stripped by loggers in the 1800's and was purchased by the government as a preserve. Since then, it has regrown into hardwood forest, dotted with remnants of pine. It feels wild and untouched, despite knowing it's history. And within it, it harbors all manner of waterways, wildlife, plants, and fungi beyond your imagination. We love southern Missouri and hope you come catch a taste of the wildness that is the Forest. Disconnect, unplug, lose your cell signal, and come find yourself in the woods :)

9. Broken Paddle Lake

100%

(5)

47mi from Van Buren · 9 sites · Tents, RVs · Zalma, MO

If you love fishing and being outdoors. This spot is for you. The Bass, Crappie and large Bluegill are awaiting your catch. You can keep your catch and cook fresh for your dinner. There is a dock to hang out on flat surface for camping and RV. Enjoy your time away from the everyday hustle and bustle.

Camper favorites near Van Buren

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Myc’s Forest

21mi from Van Buren · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Grandin, MO

You can enjoy your time at Myc’s Forest by wandering through the trees, fishing at the pond, or chatting with friends by the fire. During spring there is a wide variety of wildflowers along with edible berries. There are three primitive campsites on the property. Each campsite is provided with a fire pit and trash can. We do not provide bathrooms so either dig a hole or bring your own portable toilet. Five of ten acres are open for campers to roam while the other five is where my partner and I have our off-grid home, garden, and pets. PROPERTY RULES: -Wear swim shoes in the pond -Leave no trace -Keep pets on leash -Fires only in designated pits -No glass bottles

2 Broke Girls Glampground

100%

(8)

40mi from Van Buren · 5 sites · RVs, Lodging · Puxico, MO

Welcome to 2 Broke Girls Glampground at Wappapello Lake. We are a small, privately owned campground, surrounded by nature and wildlife. We offer unique vacation rentals, annual, monthly and nightly campsites. Each of our vacation rentals and campsites are uniquely designed and conveniently located just seconds away from Rockwood Beach and Boat Ramp.

Williams Camp : Eleven Point River

98%

(30)

20mi from Van Buren · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · MO

Learn more about this land: You'll have a private place of your own, with access to some of Missouri states most hidden springs, rivers, waterfalls, fishing, hunting, hiking, (some of the best) horseback riding trails, and historic landmarks. Rather you're after solitude or sport, this area has you covered. Kayak, canoe, and shuttle rental, service is available at hufstedlers.com and is a short 11.5 mile drive. Beautiful eleven point river offers blue, red, and white ribbon, spring fed trout/walleye water. If you're looking to float the river, be sure to research the many springs on the way down your trip and the historic mill communities that once flourished there. These are perfect opportunities to take a break, eat a meal, and explore the area. Most also will have public bathrooms. Unless there are multiple reservations, you will be allowed to hookup/stay at whichever site is the easiest for you to get parked at. Maps of the area and things to do will continue to be updated as they are developed. In the mean time, a great resource is MissouriScenicRivers.com. We do not live near this site so this is an exclusively non-hosted listing.

The Holliday Landing on the Lake

94%

(65)

32mi from Van Buren · 44 sites · Tents, RVs · Greenville, MO

Learn more about this land: Holliday Landing Resort & Marina offers a variety of beautiful campsites to meet your camping needs. There are 11 sites with water, electric, and sewer hook-ups, 28 sites with water and electric, there is a secluded mini-loop where tent campers can enjoy the same access and amenities. All water and electric campsites have 30/120 amp electric service and frost-free water. Guests may use the modern restroom facility with showers. A dump station is available for your use. Each non-primitive site has a gravel pad for RV campers and parking, a grassy area for tent camping, visiting, or playing, a picnic table, and a fire ring with grill. Each primitive site has a grassy area, picnic table, and fire ring with no designated parking area. For your convenience, camping guests may use the boat ramp and may rent a boat slip for a $10 nightly fee. Kids and adults alike can play together at our playground area. Camping guests also have access to an inground swimming pool at no extra charge.

Robert's Redneck Retreat, LLC

100%

(13)

26mi from Van Buren · 3 sites · Lodging · Doniphan, MO

Robert's Redneck Retreat is located on about 16 acres of pasture and 58 acres of forested land with a creek and trails running through it. Our property also adjoins 1200 acres of the Mark Twain National Forest, dotted with springs, trails, rivers, lakes, ponds and breathtaking views. We have three small cabins on the property that are spaced out for privacy. There are also potential for tent camp sites.My husband and I love nature, farming, gardening, and sharing time with like-minded individuals. Our dream is small scale hobby farming adjoined with cabin rentals, allowing trees to regrow in places that were once pasture in order to do our part to help maintain habitat for wild animals and plants. It is a balance that we love and it is our pleasure to share this property with you. We are new here, but we are not new to the camping world; we have been helping campers have positive experiences since 2013 and already have over 170 positive reviews on Airbnb. We would love for Hip Campers to come experience our brand of cabin camping, with farm and forest experiences.A little history of the surrounding area: The Mark Twain National Forest was stripped by loggers in the 1800's and was purchased by the government as a preserve. Since then, it has regrown into hardwood forest, dotted with remnants of pine. It feels wild and untouched, despite knowing it's history. And within it, it harbors all manner of waterways, wildlife, plants, and fungi beyond your imagination. We love southern Missouri and hope you come catch a taste of the wildness that is the Forest. Disconnect, unplug, lose your cell signal, and come find yourself in the woods :)

Broken Paddle Lake

100%

(5)

47mi from Van Buren · 9 sites · Tents, RVs · Zalma, MO

If you love fishing and being outdoors. This spot is for you. The Bass, Crappie and large Bluegill are awaiting your catch. You can keep your catch and cook fresh for your dinner. There is a dock to hang out on flat surface for camping and RV. Enjoy your time away from the everyday hustle and bustle.

Public campgrounds near Van Buren

Watercress Campground

1.1mi from Van Buren · 17 sites · Tents, RVs · in Mark Twain National Forest

Irish Wilderness

22mi from Van Buren · 1 site · Tent, RV · in Mark Twain National Forest

Markham Springs Campground

23mi from Van Buren · 11 sites · in Mark Twain National Forest

Whites Creek Float Camp

23mi from Van Buren · 1 site · in Mark Twain National Forest

McCormack Lake Recreation Area

23mi from Van Buren · 16 sites · Tents, RVs · in Mark Twain National Forest

100%

(1)

Greer Crossing Recreation Area

23mi from Van Buren · 19 sites · Tents, RVs · in Mark Twain National Forest

Deer Leap Recreation Area

25mi from Van Buren · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · in Mark Twain National Forest

Float Camp Recreation Area

25mi from Van Buren · 20 sites · Tents, RVs · in Mark Twain National Forest

Beaver Lake Recreation Area

26mi from Van Buren · 1 site · Tent, RV · in Mark Twain National Forest

Fourche Lake Recreation Area

29mi from Van Buren · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · in Mark Twain National Forest

100%

(2)

Loggers Lake Recreation Area

30mi from Van Buren · 28 sites · Tents, RVs · in Mark Twain National Forest

Sutton Bluff Recreation Area and Campground

32mi from Van Buren · 33 sites · Tents, RVs · in Mark Twain National Forest

Stories from the community

M

Matthew

3 weeks ago

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Arcadia Valley BaseCamp

The site was very quiet and we were the only campers in the area. It was secluded and a great spot for a getaway. The firewood on-site was a big plus for us. We were also grateful for the extremely clean porta potty on site. Hosts were not on site that we could tell, but it was not needed anyway for our stay.

C

Chelsea

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Arcadia Valley Outdoors Land

We camped in the safari tent and had a cozy lovely time. Although it was in a loop with other campsites it felt plenty private, set back from the road and separated from the other sites by plenty of trees. Didn't end up trying the tub, but it looked nice. The wood stove kept us warm throughout the night, and the solar power bank and water pump were a nice touch.

A

Andrea

November 2025

15 ft pop-up camper

3 nights at Arcadia Valley BaseCamp

The high and dry site was easy to find, felt private, had enough room to spread out and was surrounded by woods. It was conveniently located close to town and to parks and hiking in the area. We didn't see anyone (except two friendly dogs that stopped by one day). There is a nice fire pit at the site and a clean porta potty a quick walk across the bridge. There was a some road noise, but overall a nice little spot and good base camp with so much to explore in this beautiful area.

e

erica

October 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at Arcadia Valley Outdoors Land

I had a fantastic stay! Amazing views, and a great place to explore

J

Javon

October 2025

Tent

3 nights at Arcadia Valley Outdoors Land

I loved camping here . Love the amenities but I would have to say the roads and lighting here are a downside. The potholes are crazy and the "solar lights" are so dim it's so hard to see anything

M

Mike

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Arcadia Valley Outdoors Land

A great place for tent camping in a quiet setting within a short distance of town. Sites are clean and ours was layered with mulch. Will visit again.

V

Victoria

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Arcadia Valley Outdoors Land

Arcadia Valley Outdoors was the best camping experience I’ve had! It was so easy to enter the campground and find our site, Old Country. Old Country was secluded from the other sites, which we LOVED! It was good to know we had neighbors nearby, but good we had our own space. Old Country was very clean and it was plenty of space for all our camping needs! It was so perfect :) We will be coming back!

Sam

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Arcadia Valley BaseCamp

I thoroughly enjoyed tent camping on Sherri’s land. High and Dry was a spacious spot on the edge of the woods with a great mix of tree coverage and expansive skies (fantastic for stargazing). A great base camp location for anyone wanting to check out the local natural wonders~!

S

Sean

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Arcadia Valley BaseCamp

Awesome camping awesome location we'll definitely be coming back

R

Ryan

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Arcadia Valley BaseCamp

Base Camp was absolutely amazing. Very pretty views and a great place to relax.

Chelsie

October 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at Arcadia Valley Outdoors Land

Awesome as always. I've loved seeing this place evolve over the last few years, with extra amenities and many thoughtful touches that add to the experience. We'll be back!

M

Madison

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Arcadia Valley Outdoors Land

Me and my girlfriends had an amazing trip at Arcadia Vally! We were worried about the campsites being too close but we were not interrupted by any of the other noise. To anyone staying, I highly recommend this campsite over the others in the area! Lots of room for a big tent and even trees very suitable for a hammock. One thing I would like to mention, the road is gravel on the way to the campsite. Be aware if your vehicle is not suitable on rougher terrain.

F

Francesca

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Arcadia Valley Outdoors Land

Great tent camping spot! Being able to take the kayaks out was a fun addition and convenient proximity to lots of hiking trails. We’ll be back.

V

Vernon

October 2025

30 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to 2 Broke Girls Glampground

Very nice owner. The spots had plenty of room and were well laid out. I did have to use my mascerator pump to dump the tanks due to the sewer connection being uphill from our tank hook-ups. If your tank hook-ups were at the rear of your RV this would not be an issue but ours are forward of the axles. The park is in a good and quiet location.

A

Alyssa

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Four Creeks Ranch Campground

193889/10 awesome experience! Even though the waters were low due to the drought, the swimming holes were still deep and clear enough to do a couple laps. There were also several cool rocks/crystals that I spent my time hoarding 😅 I will most likely be back in the spring to fill another shelf. Michelle was also super sweet, and I could text her no matter what and she was very prompt with answering. She also gave me fresh eggs! Which with current grocery prices came at a perfect time to save my bank account 😂 Highly recommend this place to anyone looking for a secluded retreat with nature. The noises from the other campsite didnt bother me, and I could even comfortably stargaze from a hammock i set up in the trees 🙏🏾

B

Brandon

October 2025

28 ft Class A

3 nights at Williams Camp : Eleven Point River

Very nice place will definitely be staying again. Power and water hook ups were great and it was very convenient. Close to town.

A

Amanda

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Arcadia Valley Outdoors Land

Awesome spot! Well kept sites that are secluded from each other. So nice being able to get firewood on site all night. Only stayed 1 night but would’ve loved to try out the free kayaks. I’d recommend this place to family and friends for a great getaway!

C

Curt

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Arcadia Valley Outdoors Land

This place couldn’t have been better for our small group of campers. Highly recommend, hot tub, sauna and bathrooms were all very nice comforts while “roughing it”. There was ample space between campsites to make the place feel private. Great hiking trails on property with a beautiful lake to watch the sunset. Thank you AVO for a great setting for a weekend away from the city.

J

Justin

October 2025

14 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to 2 Broke Girls Glampground

I have a rooftop tent and really enjoyed this spot. I had a wonderful quiet evening. Love that there is a shower and restroom right there next to the sites. Hosts were very kind and extremely responsive. Oh! And they even provide wood for your campfire, which is awesome. Will definitely be back when I’m in the area again!

J

Joe

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Arcadia Valley Outdoors Land

AVO was awesome. We stayed at the 1st Place campsite and loved the layout of area. The tent pad was fairly flat and located a nice distance from the fire pit. I also appreciated that the site had its own dedicated trail leading to the showers and restrooms. AVO offers free kayaks for use in the Shepherd Mountain reservoir, which are definitely worth a try. I didn't try the hot tub or sauna, but they looked like very neat amenities. We stayed during the off season, so there were very few fellow campers (none at all on Sunday night). Very nice. I only have mild criticisms. I recommend bringing your own fold-up grill plate. One was located at the campsite, but it was pretty rusty. Restrooms are pretty primitive but are kept relatively clean. However, the water for the sink ran empty and was never refilled. This may be maintained more consistently in the busy season though. In general, I would highly recommend this camp ground. I would love to stay here again.