How much does camping cost at Bar-K Wrangler Camp?

Camping fees at Bar-K Wrangler Camp range from $10/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Bar-K Wrangler Camp first-come first-served or reservation?

Bar-K Wrangler Camp accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

What is the best time to visit Bar-K Wrangler Camp?

Bar-K Wrangler Camp is open Peak season dates are not explicitly mentioned.. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Bar-K Wrangler Camp?

Bar-K Wrangler Camp does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Can I have a campfire at Bar-K Wrangler Camp?

Fire policies at Bar-K Wrangler Camp: Campfires are allowed using collected dead and downed wood. Fireworks are prohibited.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Bar-K Wrangler Camp have?

Bar-K Wrangler Camp has 3 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Bar-K Wrangler Camp?

Yes, pets are allowed at Bar-K Wrangler Camp. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Bar-K Wrangler Camp?

Bar-K Wrangler Camp offers: Restrooms, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Bar-K Wrangler Camp?

Popular activities at Bar-K Wrangler Camp include Hiking, Fishing, Swimming, Biking, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Bar-K Wrangler Camp

4.35

49 reviews

1006 S. Jefferson Ava, MO 65608

Top 19% in MOSummer

Stargazing

Featured in:Hidden Gem Campgrounds Missouri Primitive Camping Missouri Hiking Camping Missouri +1 more

Quick Facts

909 ft

Price

$10/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

3 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

909 ft

Price

$10/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

3 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Bar-K Wrangler Camp

$10.00 - $10.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Camping at Bar-K Wrangler Camp is $10 per night for single campsites. No fees are required for dispersed or group camping.

Standard Site Fee$10.00

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USFS

Provider

417-683-4428sm.fs.marktwainnf@usda.gov

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

1006 S. Jefferson Ava, MO 65608

Bar-K Wrangler Camp

1006 S. Jefferson Ava, MO 65608

Nearby places

Garrison, MO (2 miles)

Chadwick, MO (7 miles)

Nearby supplies

No specific mention of nearby grocery stores or fuel stations. Campers are required to pack out all trash due to lack of trash containers on-site.

Driving directionsFrom Garrison, MO: Take Hwy 125 north 2 miles to Forest Road 533. Turn right and continue to the bottom of the hill. From Chadwick, MO: Take Hwy 125 south for about 7 miles to Forest Road 533. Turn left and continue to the bottom of the hill.

The campground is accessible using paved highways (Hwy 125) leading to Forest Road 533, which is unpaved. Seasonal flooding may affect access, and visitors are advised to avoid driving through standing water in low areas.

Weather at Bar-K Wrangler Camp

Current alert: The campground is temporarily closed due to flash-flood damage.

Best Time to Camp at Bar-K Wrangler Camp

Summer brings the warmest conditions for creek swimming and trail riding. Daytime highs reach the mid-80s to low-90s, with nights in the 60s. Afternoon showers and Ozark humidity are common. Weekend crowds pick up around holidays. Fall offers cooler temperatures and changing leaves. Winter and spring remain accessible but expect frost-kissed mornings and occasional snow in the colder months.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Top 19% in MO

Warmest season for creek swimming, trail riding; reviewers note summer popularity.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Peak season dates are not explicitly mentioned.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open year-round, from January to December.

About Bar-K Wrangler Camp

Bar-K Wrangler Camp sits in the Ozark highlands of Mark Twain National Forest, a 3-site primitive campground built for equestrians and hikers. Sites run $10 per night and include vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables. Swan Creek runs through the property. Cell service is limited to nonexistent.

Bar-K Wrangler Camp is a quiet, primitive campground primarily catering to equestrians, but it is also suitable for tent and RV camping. It allows group and dispersed camping, with minimal facilities.

Weather and SeasonsSummer brings the warmest conditions for creek swimming and trail riding. Daytime highs reach the mid-80s to low-90s, with nights in the 60s. Afternoon showers and Ozark humidity are common. Weekend crowds pick up around holidays. Fall offers cooler temperatures and changing leaves. Winter and spring remain accessible but expect frost-kissed mornings and occasional snow in the colder months.

ElevationSituated at a comfortable elevation within the rolling Ozark landscape, the campground offers that perfect balance of accessibility and mountain atmosphere that defines this beloved region.

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground sits at 909 feet elevation where Swan Creek cuts through Ozark bedrock. Old-growth oaks and native shortleaf pines shade the sites, with remnant prairies and glades opening beyond the tree line. The creek runs clear over smooth stones. Dogwoods bloom in spring. Maples and hickories turn in fall. "The stars at night are amazing," one camper noted.

Geological RegionBar-K Wrangler Camp sits proudly within the ancient Ozark highlands, a geological wonderland where time has carved a landscape of remarkable diversity. This semi-primitive paradise showcases the region's signature features: majestic old-growth oaks and native shortleaf pines standing sentinel over remnant prairies and sun-drenched glades. Swan Creek meanders through this timeless terrain, its clear waters having carved their path through bedrock over countless millennia, creating the perfect backdrop for those seeking an authentic Ozark camping experience.

Scenic ViewsThe campsite offers views of glades, prairie remnants, and scenic hiking trails. Visitors appreciate the starry night skies and peaceful setting.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style lodging options are provided.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are offered at this campground.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

No explicit check-in time mentioned.

Check-out

No explicit check-out time mentioned.

Stay Limit

No explicit stay limit mentioned.

Guests Allowed Per Site

No more than 8 people per single site (16 for double sites).

Groups

An open field is available for group camping, but it is not designated with specific sites.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThree designated sites cluster near the creek. Dispersed camping spreads across the road in a large open field suitable for group camping and horse trailers. Reviews mention horse droppings near campsites and on trails.

Reservation PlatformsNo reservations are explicitly required, and camping is available on a first-come-first-serve basis.

Walk-in AvailabilityCamping is available on a first-come-first-serve basis with no reservations required.

Cancellation PolicyNo explicit cancellation policy mentioned.

AccessibilityAccessibility features for campers with disabilities have not been specified.

Site SizeCampsites are described as dispersed, with a large open field available for group camping and horse trailers.

PrivacySome of the other campsites are further away, so that you are isolated from other sites," according to a user review.

Total Campsites3 campsites

Recommended SitesCampers seeking more isolation are recommended to use dispersed sites across the road.

Best CampsitesThe 3 designated sites sit near the creek. Some sites are more isolated than others, according to reviews. One camper recommended avoiding the main campground area entirely and camping in more remote spots for added privacy. Horse trailer parking is available in the large field across the road, though non-equestrian campers sometimes occupy these spaces.

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When to Book

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Cancellation Alerts

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Amenities available

Potable water is not available at this site. Drinking water is not available at trailheads. Water can be limited within Swan Creek depending on rainfall and time of year, please plan accordingly.

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

The campground provides a variety of recreational opportunities, including hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, and swimming. "This part of the Mark Twain National Forest is beautiful and the Swan Creek Recreation Area has something to offer for everyone," one user noted.

Hiking

Fishing

Swimming

Biking

Wildlife viewing

Winter Activities

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsSeasonal flooding after heavy rains is a concern. Campers are advised to avoid driving through standing water in low areas.

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available. Vaulted toilets are present.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Fire PolicyCampfires are allowed using collected dead and downed wood. Fireworks are prohibited.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.

Emergency ServicesAva-Cassville-Willow Springs Ranger Station is located at 1006 S. Jefferson Ava, MO 65608. Phone: 417-683-4428 (hours: 8:00 am to 4:30 pm, Monday to Friday).

Trash & Recycling"There are no trash containers; please pack out all your trash," according to the official guidelines.

Water FeaturesThe campground is located adjacent to Swan Creek, which provides opportunities for wading and swimming during warmer months.

Camp HostNo campground host is mentioned.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

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Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.4

49 reviews

Recommended

Bar-K Wrangler Camp is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews highlight the campground as a peaceful, nature-rich site ideal for primitive camping, horse riding, and hiking. Some users express frustration over non-equestrian campers occupying spaces intended for horse trailers.

Review Summaries

Based on 49 reviews

What Campers Love

"By far my favorite free camping area in Missouri," one user stated. Campers praised the quiet atmosphere, scenic views, and the availability of horse riding trails. "The stars at night are amazing,"...

Based on 49 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints include limited cell signal, the presence of horse droppings on trails, and occasional overcrowding by non-equestrian campers. "Watch your step, horse droppings are everywhere," one user...

Based on 49 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Specific campsites near the creek with picnic tables are highlighted positively. Some users recommend camping outside the designated sites for increased seclusion.

Based on 49 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

"Take nothing but pictures, and leave nothing but footprints," urged one user, stressing the importance of packing out trash. Another recommended avoiding the main campground and camping in more...

Based on 49 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Warm months are noted as the most popular time, with high activity levels and pleasant weather. During rainier periods, the site may be more challenging due to the potential for flooding.

Based on 49 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Bar-k Wrangler Campsite is an amazing, special place," said one user. Another remarked, "If I had a horse, we'd be tromping all over this place."

Based on 49 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility issues or accommodations for campers with disabilities have not been mentioned.

Based on 49 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed but must be leashed. "Leash is required with dogs," one user stressed. Another advised properly managing pet waste to avoid disturbing other campers.

Based on 49 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

Equestrians and trail riders who plan ahead and call the ranger station (417-683-4428) before driving out. Swan Creek, the Beer Can Alley glade views, and clear dark skies are the real draws once it reopens.

Skip if

The campground is closed right now due to flood damage, so no one should book it yet. When it does reopen, hikers expecting a tidy, dedicated tent site will contend with horse droppings on trails and horse-trailer rigs claiming the best creek spots.

Nearby Campgrounds

US FOREST SERVICE, MARK TWAIN NATIONAL FOREST, 1006 S. JEFFERSON STREET, Ava, MO 65608, USA

Cobb Ridge sits in the Mark Twain National Forest foothills near Ava, serving as the staging ground for the Chadwick Riding Area's 80 miles of dirt bike and ATV trails. Operated by the USDA Forest Service, this seasonal campground offers tent sites, RV hookups, and primitive options alongside group areas. Riders come for technical ridge routes and rock sections, with hosts maintaining clean facilities during the busy summer months.

Bar-K Wrangler Camp

Quick Facts

Quick Facts

Get Notified When Available

Plan a trip to Bar-K Wrangler Camp

Campground Map

Weather at Bar-K Wrangler Camp

Best Time to Camp at Bar-K Wrangler Camp

Planning Tips

About Bar-K Wrangler Camp

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Bar-K Wrangler Camp?

Amenities available

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Site-Specific Reviews

Go if

Skip if

Overview

Plan a trip to Bar-K Wrangler Camp

Best Time to Camp at Bar-K Wrangler Camp

Planning Tips

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Bar-K Wrangler Camp?

Amenities available

Activities you can enjoy

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Site-Specific Reviews