US lakes & pondsUS lakes & pondsCampground · National forest in Van Buren, Carter County, Missouri.
| Managed by | USDA Forest Service (Mark Twain National Forest) |
|---|---|
| Campsites | 19 |
| Site types | 17 standard, no electric, 2 group picnic area |
| RV hookups | Electric hookups at 2 sites |
| Longest RV/trailer site | 40 ft |
| RVs welcome | Yes |
| Dogs allowed | Yes |
| Reservations | Recreation.gov |
We only list amenities a source records. A missing item doesn't mean the campground lacks it, so check with Watercress Campground before you go.
***Watercress sustained substantial damage to the pavilions during the 2017 flood, they are not reservable at this time, however the boat ramp is still open for public use.*** Watercress Campground lies on the banks one of the forest’s greatest treasures; the Current River. Floats on the river provide views of southeastern Missouri that otherwise can't be seen. The area is home to a variety of birds and wildlife and recreation opportunities are plentiful in the surrounding area. Recreation Boating and canoeing on the Current River, as well as on other nearby rivers, are popular activities.
Description: Recreation.gov (U.S. federal government, public domain), shortened.
Lakes and ponds on LakeRipple within 10 miles, closest first (straight-line distance to the shoreline). Each page has boat launches, beaches, fishing and today's weather.
Watercress Campground is in Van Buren, Carter County.
Sources: Recreation.gov (RIDB). Pulled Oct 12, 2026. Interactive map: Leaflet with © OpenStreetMap contributors. Seasons, rates and rules change; confirm with the campground.