Grubb Hollow Campground

Missouri is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, and for those who cherish the great outdoors, Grubb Hollow Campground in Van Buren, MO, offers an authentic and immersive experience. Nestled within the expansive Ozark National Scenic Riverways, this campground provides a unique opportunity to disconnect from the everyday hustle and reconnect with nature. If you're a local resident or visiting the region, and the thought of sleeping under a canopy of stars with the sounds of the wilderness as your lullaby appeals to you, then Grubb Hollow Campground is a destination worth exploring.

This inviting campground is not just a place to pitch a tent; it’s a gateway to adventure and tranquility in one of Missouri’s most cherished natural landscapes. Whether you’re an experienced backcountry enthusiast or someone looking to truly unplug, Grubb Hollow offers a setting that many visitors describe as feeling like "home" – a natural home, that is. It caters to those who genuinely appreciate the raw beauty and quiet solitude that only the "great outdoors" can provide.

Grubb Hollow Campground is part of the Lower Current District Backcountry Campsites, offering a more undeveloped and rustic camping experience compared to traditional developed campgrounds. This makes it an ideal spot for those who prefer a less structured environment and a deeper immersion into the natural surroundings of the Ozarks. It’s a place where the simplicity of camping truly shines, allowing for genuine relaxation and appreciation of the unspoiled Missouri wilderness.

Location and Accessibility

Grubb Hollow Campground is strategically located at Grubb Hollow Rd, Van Buren, MO 63965, USA. Situated within the Ozark National Scenic Riverways, this location provides convenient access to the Current River and surrounding natural attractions. While it offers a secluded feel, it's still relatively accessible for those traveling by vehicle, including RVs and trailers, though it is important to note that the final approach to the campground includes driving on gravel roads for approximately 2.5 miles. This adds to the rustic charm but is a detail to keep in mind for vehicle type and conditions.

From Van Buren, a common route involves driving west on Highway 60 for about 5 miles, then turning south onto State Highway C. You'll follow Highway C for about 7 miles before turning left onto State Highway F at the intersection in Eastwood. Continue on Highway F for roughly 5.75 miles, and then turn right onto Grubb Hollow Road. Staying on Grubb Hollow Road for about 2.5 miles will lead you directly to the campground entrance. This journey, while picturesque, highlights the campground's placement within a truly natural setting, away from heavily trafficked areas.

It's important for visitors to be aware that cell phone reception can be unreliable in the area, varying by carrier and specific location within the campground. This contributes to the "unplugged" experience, encouraging campers to fully embrace their surroundings without digital distractions. Given its location within a National Park Service area, the campground is subject to park regulations and seasonal conditions, particularly regarding temporary closures during or after flooding or severe storms, which are important to check before your visit.

Services Offered

As a backcountry campground, Grubb Hollow offers a more minimalist array of services, focusing on essential amenities that support a genuine outdoor experience. This design caters to campers who are prepared for a less developed setting, prioritizing nature over extensive conveniences.

• Vault Toilets: Basic restroom facilities are available year-round.
• Designated Fire Rings and Grills: Each campsite is equipped with a fire ring and grill, allowing for campfires and outdoor cooking in designated areas, adhering to park fire policies.
• Allowable Equipment: Tents, RVs, and vehicles are permitted, with specific site details available through the reservation system.
• Site Capacity: Sites typically accommodate up to 6 people.
• Reservation System: All developed campsites, including Grubb Hollow, require reservations, which can be made online via Recreation.gov. This ensures a spot for your visit and helps manage park capacity.
• No Potable Water: Visitors should be prepared to bring their own water for drinking and other uses, as potable water is not readily available at the campsites themselves. There may be fill stations at other developed campgrounds within the Ozark National Scenic Riverways, but this is not guaranteed at Grubb Hollow.
• No Dump Station: There are no sewer hookups or dump stations directly at Grubb Hollow. Visitors with RVs will need to utilize facilities at other developed campgrounds within the riverways, such as Big Spring Campground, for waste disposal.
• No Electrical Hookups: Grubb Hollow Campground is a primitive campground and does not offer electric hookups, further promoting a truly rustic camping experience.
• No Trash/Recycling Collection: Campers are responsible for packing out all their trash, adhering to Leave No Trace principles to preserve the natural environment.

Features / Highlights

The true allure of Grubb Hollow Campground lies in its natural features and the immersive outdoor activities it enables. It's a place where the landscape itself is the main attraction, inviting visitors to explore and relax in a pristine setting.

• Proximity to Current River: The campground is located directly on the lower Current River, offering campers immediate access to one of Missouri's most cherished waterways for swimming, floating, fishing, and kayaking.
• Scenic Riverway Views: With sites right along the river, campers can enjoy picturesque views and the soothing sounds of the water, creating a tranquil atmosphere.
• Backcountry Experience: For those seeking a truly rustic camping adventure, Grubb Hollow delivers. It provides a less developed setting, allowing for a deeper connection with the wilderness.
• Wildlife Viewing and Bird-Watching: The surrounding Ozark National Scenic Riverways is rich in biodiversity, making the campground an excellent spot for observing local wildlife and various bird species.
• Hiking Opportunities: The area offers numerous hiking trails within the Ozark National Scenic Riverways, providing opportunities for exploration and scenic walks through diverse terrain.
• Tranquil Environment: Customer reviews often highlight the quiet and peaceful nature of the campground, noting that it fosters a sense of belonging and calm for those who appreciate the outdoors.

Contact Information

For inquiries regarding Grubb Hollow Campground, as it is part of the Ozark National Scenic Riverways, general information can be obtained through the park's main contact points.

Address: Grubb Hollow Rd, Van Buren, MO 63965, USA

Phone: (573) 323-4236 (This number typically reaches the Big Spring Entrance Station, which can provide information regarding campgrounds within the Ozark National Scenic Riverways).

For reservations, it is highly recommended to use the official Recreation.gov website, as all developed campsites are available by reservation only. For specific campground inquiries or regulations, reaching out to the National Park Service via their general contact number for the Ozark National Scenic Riverways is the most reliable method.

Conclusion: Why This Place is Suitable for Locals

For residents of Missouri, Grubb Hollow Campground is more than just a place to camp; it's a valuable local resource for escaping the demands of modern life and embracing the therapeutic power of nature. Its designation as a backcountry campground means it caters specifically to those who truly appreciate the rugged beauty of the Ozarks without the extensive amenities found in more commercialized sites. As one customer aptly put it, it's "the only place that makes me feel just well like I belong." This sentiment resonates deeply with those who find solace and joy in the untouched wilderness.

Its prime location along the Current River offers unparalleled access to water-based activities that are a hallmark of the Ozark experience, from tranquil floating trips to invigorating swims. The emphasis on a less developed environment means a quieter, more intimate camping experience, free from the noise and distractions of everyday life. This makes it ideal for individuals or families looking to truly disconnect, immerse themselves in outdoor pursuits like hiking, fishing, or simply enjoying the peaceful sounds of nature.

Grubb Hollow Campground serves as a perfect retreat for locals seeking an authentic Ozark adventure. It encourages self-sufficiency and a deeper appreciation for the environment, providing a space where memories are made around a campfire, under a blanket of stars, and amidst the breathtaking natural scenery that Missouri proudly offers.

Grubb Hollow Campground

Grubb Hollow Rd, Van Buren, MO 63965, USA