- Pine Cliff Resort
- Campgrounds & RV Parks
- Missouri
- McDonald County
- Noel
- Campgrounds & RV Parks in River Rd
- River Ranch Resort
Hours
Monday, 7:00 AM - 8:00 PMTuesday, 7:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Wednesday, 7:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Thursday, 7:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Friday, 7:00 AM - 11:30 PM
Saturday, 7:00 AM - 11:30 PM
Sunday, 7:00 AM - 8:00 PM
River Ranch Resort Introduce
For Missourians seeking an unforgettable outdoor adventure that champions inclusivity and genuine hospitality, River Ranch Resort in Noel stands out as a premier destination. Nestled on the beautiful Elk River, this resort offers a refreshing alternative to the typical campground experience, especially for those who value understanding and flexibility. Unlike some establishments that strictly cater to a single activity, River Ranch Resort welcomes all guests, even those not participating in a float trip, recognizing that everyone's needs and abilities are unique. Visitors consistently praise the kind staff, well-kept grounds, and a clear dedication to guest satisfaction over mere profit. If you're looking for a peaceful, respectful, and value-driven escape into the stunning Ozark landscapes, River Ranch Resort promises a welcoming environment where every Missourian can feel seen, respected, and valued.
River Ranch Resort is conveniently located at 101 River Rd, Noel, MO 64854, USA. This prime address places it directly on the banks of the beautiful Elk River, making it an ideal hub for water-based activities and riverside relaxation. Noel, Missouri, is centrally located in the "Four-State Area" (Missouri, Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Kansas), making it a popular and accessible destination for many residents across Missouri. The resort is easily reachable via well-maintained state highways. From major Missouri cities like Springfield or Joplin, travelers can take I-44 and connect to state highways leading directly to Noel. For those coming from Kansas City or St. Louis, the journey involves a slightly longer but scenic drive through the heart of the state. The straightforward access ensures that reaching this tranquil riverfront escape is relatively hassle-free, allowing guests to quickly transition from the road to relaxation. Its secluded feel, despite easy highway access, adds to its appeal as a genuine getaway.
River Ranch Resort prides itself on offering a comprehensive range of services and amenities designed to cater to diverse groups and ensure a comfortable and convenient stay for all guests. The resort's commitment to customer satisfaction is evident in its continuous efforts to enhance the guest experience.
- Diverse Camping Options: The resort offers a variety of camping experiences, including primitive tent camping, electric tent sites, full hook-up RV sites (at both the main Ranch and Sycamore Landing), and even waterfront sites.
- Cabin and Lodging Rentals: For those seeking more comfort, River Ranch Resort provides a wide array of lodging, from cozy air-conditioned cabins (sleeping 2 to 24 people) to glamping pods, bungalows, cottages, and even off-site lofts and houses.
- Fully Stocked General Store: A 6,000 sq. ft. general store is available on-site, stocked with almost anything a guest might forget, from camping essentials to souvenirs, simplifying trip preparation.
- Multiple Dining Options: Guests can enjoy various food services, including pizza delivery directly to campsites, campsite catering, a Hungry Camper Café, and options for all-you-can-eat breakfast buffets and steak dinners. There's also an ice cream and coffee shop.
- Clean Shower Houses and Restrooms: The resort provides clean shower houses and restrooms, though some feedback suggests more frequent cleaning on busy weekends could be an area of improvement.
- Float Trip Rentals and Shuttles: A core service, the resort offers rentals for canoes, rafts, kayaks, and tubes for float trips on the Elk River. They provide convenient upstream shuttle service, allowing guests to float directly back to the resort.
- Wood and Ice Delivery: For ultimate convenience, the resort offers delivery of wood and ice directly to campsites.
- Event Hosting: River Ranch Resort is equipped to host a variety of special events, including church and youth retreats, weddings, family reunions, company parties, and more, with spacious event rooms.
- Pet-Friendly Policy: Dogs are welcomed at the resort. They are free to camp and float. For cabins, a fee applies, and there's a limit of two dogs per cabin, with strict rules on leashing and waste cleanup.
River Ranch Resort offers an impressive array of features and highlights that make it a truly exceptional destination for outdoor enthusiasts and groups in Missouri, focusing on both recreation and guest well-being.
- Inclusive and Welcoming Atmosphere: A standout highlight is the resort's genuinely inclusive approach, welcoming all guests regardless of their participation in float trips. This focus on respect and valuing every visitor sets it apart and fosters a positive environment.
- Direct Elk River Access: With one mile of riverfront campsites, guests have direct and easy access to the beautiful Elk River for swimming, fishing, and launching their watercraft. The Day Pass option allows local residents to enjoy the river without an overnight stay.
- Variety of Water Activities: Beyond just floating, the Elk River is perfect for world-class smallmouth bass fishing, kayaking, and canoeing, appealing to both leisurely paddlers and serious anglers.
- Extensive Lodging Diversity: From primitive tent sites to luxurious river lodges and unique glamping pods, the resort offers accommodation to suit every preference and group size, including options that "hang over the river."
- Convenient On-Site Services: The large general store, multiple dining options (including pizza delivery to your site), and wood/ice delivery services significantly enhance convenience, allowing guests to relax without needing to leave the property for essentials.
- Family and Group-Friendly Environment: The resort is well-equipped for various group sizes, with amenities like campsite catering, large cabins, and event spaces, making it ideal for family reunions, youth groups, or corporate retreats.
- Active Management and Continuous Improvement: Feedback from guests indicates a responsive management team that "truly care about their guests" and are open to areas of improvement, ensuring a consistently evolving and better experience.
- Day Pass Option for Locals: Noel residents can enjoy a free Day Pass Sunday-Friday, granting access to Sycamore Landing Beach, shallow-wading areas, and volleyball courts, fostering strong community ties.
- Peaceful and Relaxing Setting: Despite being a popular spot, the resort generally offers a peaceful environment, allowing guests to unwind and enjoy the tranquility of the Ozarks.
For inquiries, reservations, or more detailed information about River Ranch Resort, please use the following contact details. Given the popularity of the resort and its diverse offerings, it is highly recommended to contact them directly, especially for group bookings or specific accommodation requests.
Address: 101 River Rd, Noel, MO 64854, USA
Phone: (417) 475-6121
Mobile Phone: +1 417-475-6121
Email: john@riverranchresort.com (as found on some listings)
Calling the provided phone number is the most direct way to speak with the friendly and knowledgeable staff who can assist with booking your preferred type of camping or lodging, answer questions about float trips, confirm pricing, and provide any specific details about the resort's amenities or policies.
River Ranch Resort is an exceptionally suitable destination for Missouri locals, offering a comprehensive and genuinely inclusive outdoor experience right in their own state. For residents across Missouri, particularly those in the southern and western regions, it provides an easily accessible escape to the stunning beauty of the Ozark Mountains and the refreshing waters of the Elk River. The resort's explicit commitment to welcoming all guests, regardless of their participation in float trips, directly addresses the diverse needs of Missouri families and individuals, including those with health challenges or disabilities, making everyone feel "seen, respected, and valued." This inclusive approach is a significant draw for local communities.
The wide range of accommodation options, from rustic tent sites to luxurious cabins and glamping pods, ensures that every Missourian can find a suitable way to enjoy their stay, whether they prefer traditional camping or a more pampered retreat. Furthermore, the extensive on-site amenities, including dining options, a fully stocked store, and convenient delivery services, mean that guests can truly relax and enjoy their vacation without constant trips off-site. By choosing River Ranch Resort, locals not only get to experience fantastic outdoor recreation and genuine hospitality but also support a local business that genuinely cares about its community and guests. It's a testament to the welcoming spirit and natural beauty that Missouri has to offer, making River Ranch Resort an ideal choice for any Missourian seeking their next memorable and inclusive outdoor adventure.
Location
MissouriMcDonald CountyNoelRiver Rd
Customer Reviews
We were so thankful for the kindness and flexibility of this campground. Unlike others in the area, they welcomed us without requiring a river float, understanding that not everyone is physically able to participate. Traveling with health challenges or disabilities isn’t always easy, but this place made us feel seen, respected, and valued. The staff was kind, the grounds were well-kept, and it was clear they truly care about their guests—not just the money from float trips. If you’re looking for a place that’s inclusive, understanding, and peaceful—this is it. Highly recommend and will definitely be back!
Really love this place. Always great service. We have been two times. They have great amenities too. Prices are good. My only “small” areas of improvement are cleaning bathrooms more often on busy weekends and enforcing quiet hours a little closer. Also keep in mind that some camping spots are really tight and there isn’t room between campsite so everyone really is jammed packed together! But again, love this place and will be coming back next year!
I was very impressed visiting river ranch resort. The coffee shop on the property was my favorite! They made every part of our trip easy and were friendly and helpful. Cabins were nice. Floating prices were high but still worth it. Such a beautiful river as well. We will most definitely come back to river ranch!
A cute little resort. We arrived late Tuesday & they were very helpful getting up info so we could get into the cabin that night. We did the 5 mile float - plenty for tubing. This river really wants to be paddled. If you do the tubes, grab a paddle (2 for the double tube) and you'll be much happier. Staff has been great and prices in the camp store aren't outrageous. They were out of pizza though so we had to go to "downtown" Noel for dinner. This place probably hops on the weekend. Not sure I would do the glamping pod again. The showers had neither hooks nor benches so there was nowhere dry to hang your stuff for after the shower. Def a park focused on tent / RV.
Girls trip was great there was 10 of us. We did the 5 mile float. I liked the service vehicle they would deliver food ice wood to your camp site they also came around to pick up trash at the curb. I also really liked that they took us up stream so we floated right back to our camp area. What I did not like was our camp site was all rock so our tents was on rocks air beds and rocks don't really go together.. overall was good.
More Places to Explore Nearby

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Hog Heaven Canoe & Camp
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Lazy Days Campground
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Gracie's Canoe Camp
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Elk River Floats & Kozy Kamp
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