Mark Twain National Forest

Watercress Recreation Area

Located on the Current River in Van Buren MO, Watercress Recreation Area is an ideal place to relax and enjoy a few hours, or a few days. The area is operated by the USDA Forest Service, Mark Twain National Forest, within the city of Van Buren MO. Watercress is a short drive to many interesting locations on the Current and Jacks Fork Rivers, including Big Spring, Missouri’s largest spring, just 5 miles away.

Area Attractions:

Picnicking: Two pavilions are located at Watercress. Both have electricity and lights for evening use. A trash dumpster, a barbeque, tables, drinking water, and flush toilets are available. Pavilions may be reserved in advance by calling the National Reservation system at 1-877-444-6777 or visiting online at www.recreation.gov. The cost of the reservation is currently $25.00 plus a $9.00 - $10.00 reservation fee. If not reserved in advance, the pavilions may be used on a first come, first served basis for $25.00. Parking is free. Reservations are posted at each pavilion. Activities must end by 9:00 p.m. and start no earlier than 7:00 a.m. Sycamore Pavilion is located closest to the boat launch (on the approach into the area). Old Hickory is located more towards the north or up river nearer the camping areas.

Camping: There are 14 single unit sites and 3 double unit sites in Watercress Recreation Area. No more than 8 people are permitted at any one site (16 for double sites). None of the sites have provisions for electrical or water hookups. Camping fees are $10.00 for single units, $15.00 for double units. Sites are available on a first come first served basis.

Boat Launch: Concrete boat launch suitable for launching canoes and jonboats. The boat launch, parking and day use areas are free at Watercress.

Fishing: The Lower Current River features small month bass and walleye, as well as sunfish, catfish and suckers. Fishing is permitted year round and controlled by the Missouri Department of Conservation. All limits apply and necessary permits are required.

Hiking: Songbird Trail. 1.2-mile loop leads to Watercress Spring, passes remains of Civil War earthworks overlooking Current River.

Swimming and wading: are popular summertime activities. The Forest Service does not provide lifeguards, post boundaries, test water quality, or measure water depth or current in any of the river swimming areas. Any one wishing to swim in them needs to carefully consider the risks involved, and take steps to assure their own protection and that of other members of their party, particularly children. Even commonly used swimming areas may have strong currents during moderate to high waters, or rocks, drop-offs, or other unseen hazards beneath the surface of the water. Floaters may rent canoes, and inner tubes in town.

USE CAUTION AND SWIM AT YOUR OWN RISK WHEN YOU ENJOY THE RIVERS!

How to get here:

Take Highway 60 to Van Buren. In Van Buren, proceed along US60/Main Street to the National Park Service Office on Watercress Road; follow the black-topped road past the Office; making a left turn to the bottom of the hill, approximately 1/3 mile.

Open all year

The day use area is open all year but drinking water and flush toilets are not available from 10/1 through 4/30. Campground is open from 5/1 thru 10/1.