Jacks Fork / Middle Current Backcountry Campsites will be reservable in advance beginning October 1st, 2025. If calling the Recreation.gov Call Center to make your reservation, please state the campsite you are wanting to reserve is in the “Jacks Fork/Middle Current District” of Ozark National Scenic Riverways and then state the campground and site number. Please download the Recreation.gov app before starting your journey to the backcountry sites, as cell service can be limited or simply non existent in these remote areas of the park.
Within Ozark National Scenic Riverways, a "backcountry campground" refers to campgrounds with some basic amenities, but not as many as developed campgrounds. All backcountry sites have picnic tables, fire rings, lantern posts, and vault toilets.
These campgrounds may have fewer amenities, but they are some of the most beautiful locations in the park. Certain sites are located right on the river's edge, allowing quick water access. Some sites are far away from other campers, giving you a chance to enjoy natural peace and quiet. If you crave a camping experience that is off the beaten path, these are the sites for you!
Keep in mind that these campgrounds are often harder to reach due to their location. Most backcountry sites require driving down gravel roads. Some roads are unsuitable for vehicles with low clearance.
Horse camping is not allowed within ONSR. Trail riders who desire to camp should contact local campgrounds with stables. Day trail riders can park horse trailers during daylight hours at Shawnee Staging Area and Broadfoot Staging Area.
Recreation
The river flows past the campground, offering excellent canoeing, tubing, swimming and fishing. Over 130 miles (209 km) of waterways exist within the park. Canoe and kayak rentals and outfitters can be found nearby.
Several miles of hiking and horseback riding trails crisscross the region, include the Alley Overlook Trail, Chubb Hollow Trail, Ozark Trail, Cave Spring Trail and Big Springs Trail.
Facilities
This campground has vault toilets available. Picnic tables, fire rings, and lantern posts are provided.
Natural Features
The Ozark National Scenic Riverways is known for its caves, springs, sinkholes and losing streams, and features over 300 identified caves within its boundaries. The caves range in size from a rock overhang to almost seven miles of identified passages. Eight caves, including an open sinkhole, have been designated as outstanding natural features.
The Ozark forest is mostly White oak and Shortleaf pine, Missouri's only native pine species. Along the rivers, Sycamore, Cottonwood, River birch and maples are common.
Redbud and dogwoods are also abundant, putting on a spectacular show during most spring months.
Nearby Attractions
Round Spring Cave is nearby, with ranger-guided tours offered daily during summer months. Historic and picturesque Alley Mill and Alley Spring are also nearby. The mill is open daily in the summer and ranger-guided tours are available upon request.
Scenic Big Spring is the largest freshwater spring in North America and produces an outflow of 280 million gallons a day.
The description, directions and fees are the National Park Service’s own words, from its record on Recreation.gov.
What people do here
biking
boating
camping
fishing
hiking
hunting
scenic drive
swimming
wild horse viewing
wildlife viewing
The federal record has no coordinates for this campground, so it is listed under Van Buren and left off the map rather than placed by guesswork. Use the directions above.
Source: Recreation Information Database (Recreation.gov), record updated August 24, 2026. Elevation from the USGS 3D Elevation Program. Seasons, fees, water and fire rules change; the managing office has the final word.
