Pulltite Campground

For Missourians who cherish the natural beauty and recreational opportunities of the Ozark National Scenic Riverways, Pulltite Campground near Salem has long been a beloved destination. Nestled along the banks of the iconic Current River, this National Park Service campground offers a classic river camping experience, known for its shady campsites and direct access to one of the state's most pristine waterways. It's a place where the sound of the river, the rustle of leaves, and the crackle of a campfire define the rhythm of your stay.

Missouri's spring-fed rivers are a jewel of the state, drawing countless visitors for floating, fishing, and peaceful retreats. Pulltite Campground provides a structured yet natural setting to enjoy these activities, making it a popular choice for families, friends, and solo adventurers. However, like many outdoor areas, it has faced challenges, notably from a significant flood in November 2024. Understanding the current status and operational changes resulting from this event is crucial for locals planning their visits in 2025 and beyond.

Historically, Pulltite Campground offered a mix of reservable and walk-in sites, providing flexibility for spontaneous trips. However, the recent flood necessitated extensive repairs and changes to its operations. The good news for 2025 is that the campground is expected to partially reopen, with a temporary reduction in available sites and a shift to a reservations-only policy for all individual sites. This change aims to ensure a smoother experience for visitors while repairs continue, ensuring the campground can continue to offer a safe and enjoyable environment.

This article will provide a clear, factual, and informative overview of Pulltite Campground, specifically tailored for Missouri users. We will detail its scenic location, the services currently offered (with important updates regarding post-flood conditions), its unique features and highlights, and essential contact information. Our goal is to equip local residents with the most accurate information to plan their resilient and rewarding visit to this cherished Current River gem.

Pulltite Campground is located at 9373 Pulltite Rd, Salem, MO 65560, USA, within the expansive Ozark National Scenic Riverways. This puts it in Dent County, roughly 32 miles south of Salem via Highway 19, turning right onto EE Highway. It is specifically situated along the Current River, providing direct waterfront access for campers.

The drive to Pulltite takes you through the scenic Missouri Ozarks, showcasing the region's characteristic rolling hills and dense forests. While the roads leading to the campground are generally well-maintained, they are typical of rural forest roads. Its location near other popular riverways spots like Pulltite Spring (for which the campground is named) and the historic Pulltite Cabin (located across the river, accessible by boat or wading) adds to its appeal. The remote setting contributes to a sense of peaceful escape, yet it remains relatively accessible for a state park campground in this region. Visitors should be aware that cell service can be limited or non-existent in this area, so downloading maps or directions beforehand is advisable.

As a developed campground operated by the National Park Service, Pulltite Campground offers a range of services, though some are impacted by the November 2024 flood and are undergoing repairs for 2025:

• Campsites: The campground typically features 55 individual campsites and 3 group sites (accommodating up to 45 people and 15 vehicles). For 2025, approximately 35 family sites and all three group sites are expected to reopen, with about 20 sites remaining closed for major repairs. Each site usually includes a paved parking spur, picnic table, and fire ring with a grill.
• Reservations Only (2025): Due to the flood damage and ongoing repairs, all individual campsites are expected to be available by reservation only for 2025. There will be no walk-in campsites available. Reservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
• Restrooms and Showers: Pulltite typically offers flush toilets and hot-water showers, available seasonally from April 15 to October 15. However, due to the 2024 flood, significant damage occurred to the shower house. For 2025, one shower and bathroom facility at the end of the campground is expected to be available, along with restrooms at Group Site 1, Group Site 3, and the amphitheater. Campers should be prepared for potentially limited facilities. Reviews note that water pressure in showers is good, though it can be "less than pleasant" with sunburn.
• Potable Water: Drinking water is available from a central supply.
• Camp Store: A convenient camp store, operated by a concessionaire (Current River Canoe Rental), is located within the campground and is typically open from April through September. It offers groceries, cold drinks, ice, firewood, propane, charcoal, first aid supplies, swim toys, and souvenirs.
• Canoe/Kayak/Tube Rentals & Shuttle Services: The on-site concessionaire, Current River Canoe Rental, provides canoe, kayak, and tube rentals, along with shuttle services for float trips on the Current River, making it incredibly convenient for water recreation.
• Amphitheater: An amphitheater is available, and ranger-led campfire programs are offered during summer months.
• Trash Collection: Trash collection services are provided within the campground.
• RV and Trailer Accommodation: Campsites can accommodate RVs and trailers, typically ranging from 30 to 60 feet. Note that there are no electric hookups.
• Accessibility: Sites 32 and 51 are designated as accessible, as are some restroom and shower facilities.
• Camp Host: A camp host is generally on-site to assist visitors and oversee campground operations.

Pulltite Campground boasts several compelling features and highlights that make it a favorite for Missouri outdoor enthusiasts:

• Direct Current River Access: Its prime location directly on the Current River is a major draw, offering easy access for swimming, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and tubing. This waterfront access is consistently praised by visitors.
• Shaded Campsites: The campsites are nestled in the woods along the river, providing abundant shade, which is particularly valued during warm Missouri summers.
• Float Trip Central: Being co-located with a canoe/kayak/tube rental outfitter makes it an incredibly convenient base for planning and executing float trips on the Current River.
• Scenic Beauty of the Ozark National Scenic Riverways: Campers are immersed in the stunning natural beauty of the Ozarks, known for its clear springs, unique caves, and diverse forest ecosystems.
• Proximity to Pulltite Spring and Historic Cabin: The nearby Pulltite Spring, one of the largest springs in the state, is a beautiful natural attraction, and the historic Pulltite Cabin across the river offers a glimpse into the region's past.
• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: The amenities and activities, combined with the natural setting, make it an excellent choice for family camping trips, with ample opportunities for outdoor recreation.
• Improved Facilities (Post-Flood): Despite the flood, the commitment to reopening and restoring facilities, including showers and flush toilets, ensures a more comfortable experience than primitive camping.
• Reservation System (2025): While a change, the reservation-only policy for 2025 provides assurance of a campsite, eliminating the uncertainty of walk-in availability during peak seasons.
• Fishing Opportunities: The Current River is known for its excellent fishing, including smallmouth bass and various trout species.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding Pulltite Campground, especially concerning its reopening status and reservation policies for 2025, it is best to contact the National Park Service:

Address: 9373 Pulltite Rd, Salem, MO 65560, USA

Phone: (573) 323-4236 (Ozark National Scenic Riverways headquarters)

For reservations, it is crucial to use the official federal booking platform:

Reservations (Recreation.gov / Reserve America): 1-877-444-6777

It is highly recommended to visit the official National Park Service website for Ozark National Scenic Riverways (nps.gov/ozar) and specifically check their "Current Conditions" page or their Facebook page (facebook.com/Ozarkriverways) for the latest updates on repairs and campground availability. Given the impacts of the 2024 flood, contacting them or checking these online resources before travel is essential for a smooth experience.

Pulltite Campground, even with its recent challenges and adjustments, remains a highly suitable and appealing destination for locals across Missouri, particularly those who cherish authentic river experiences in the Ozarks. For Missourians, its direct waterfront access to the Current River is an unparalleled draw, offering endless opportunities for floating, swimming, and fishing. The availability of a convenient on-site canoe rental and shuttle service makes it exceptionally easy for residents to embark on memorable float trips without the logistical hassle.

While recent reviews indicate the need to be aware of potential site drainage issues during heavy rain and the ongoing recovery from the 2024 flood, the National Park Service's commitment to reopening facilities (albeit with some temporary limitations like the reduced number of shower/bathroom facilities) demonstrates its enduring value. The shift to a reservations-only system for 2025, while a change for some, actually benefits locals by guaranteeing a campsite for planned trips, removing the uncertainty of walk-in availability. This is especially advantageous for weekend excursions.

The campground's shaded sites, nestled amidst the mature trees of the Ozarks, offer a welcome respite from the summer sun, a highly valued feature in Missouri. For families, the natural setting combined with basic amenities and the potential for ranger programs creates a wholesome outdoor adventure. Despite the minor inconveniences of recovery, Pulltite Campground continues to embody the spirit of a beloved Missouri river camping tradition, providing a genuine and accessible escape into one of the state's most iconic natural treasures for those prepared to embrace its rustic charm and resilience.

Pulltite Campground

Salem, MO 65560, USA