Anglers and history enthusiasts will find both recreational opportunities and cultural significance at this Corps of Engineers campground on the St. Francis River. The facility sits within the footprint of Old Greenville, relocated when Wappapello Dam created the lake system. Historical markers throughout the grounds detail the area's connection to the Trail of Tears, while remnants of the original courthouse and home foundations remain visible among the campsites.
The campground features over 100 sites with full hookups, asphalt drives, and large concrete pads extending roughly 10 by 30 feet. Each site includes a fire ring, picnic table, and lantern hook. Gary P. notes "a newer shower house in one loop & clean pit toilets throughout the rest." Sites offer varying amounts of shade, with the newer loop containing the shower facilities typically experiencing higher occupancy rates.
A paved trail connects the campground directly to downtown Greenville, providing easy access for supplies and dining. The cemetery adjacent to some sites adds historical context but may not appeal to all families. Cell service varies by carrier, with AT&T generally performing better than Verizon according to multiple reports.
Campers exploring the broader region can find [campgrounds around Wappapello Lake] for additional options. Reserve sites well in advance during peak seasons, as the combination of full hookups and historical significance draws steady visitation.
Description
Overview
Greenville Recreation Area is located on the northen end of Wappapello Lake Project, nestled on the banks of the St. Francis River. The spacious campground is built on the original site of the historical Old Greenville City, visitors have seemingly endless opportunities for fun. The Memory Lane trail winds along the historical foundations and streets offering a glimpse back in time. The Greenville Trail, a three mile hike or bike trail, connects the modern city of Greenville to the campground. The expansive grounds, multiple playgrounds, play courts and large event area provide opportunities for all ages and abilities. Click here to take a virtual tour of the facilities at Wappapello Lake!
Recreation
Greenville boasts a one-mile historical trail to explore. A three-mile hike/bike trail is open year-round and a great choice for families. The lake is home to some of Missouri's most sought after game fish, including largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, white bass and channel catfish. Hunting and trapping are popular activities around the lake, boasting 44,000 acres for public use. Special events are put on throughout the year but the annual Black Powder Rendezvous, Old Greenville Days and Halloween Boo Bash events are notable experiences in Greenville.
Facilities
The day use portion of the recreation area includes 14 picnic sites, a playground, basketball court, volleyball court, horseshoe pits, day use shelter, and boat ramp with courtesy dock. Facilities within the campground include showers, a playground, and 106 campsites with full hookups, consisting of electric, water, and sewer.
Natural Features
Wappapello Lake, fed by the St. Francis River, has a seemingly endless string of secluded coves hugged by a winding, wooded shoreline. The public recreation area spans 45,000 acres in the southeastern Ozark foothills. The St. Francis River provides multiple caves, gravel bars, and open stretchs of water surrounded by open woodlands and rocky bluffs.
Contact Info
Between 04/01/2026 and 11/02/2026 this location is staffed. Please call (573) 224-3884 to speak with local staff. From 11/03/2025 to 03/31/2026 this location is unstaffed. Please call (573) 778-5404 for general information.
Nearby Attractions
Explore one of the 9 trail systems along the Wappapello Lake. The nearby Ozark Trail is the only Horse friendly trail at the Lake. The Pine Ridge Nature trail, Shell Lake Archery Trail and Wappapllo Wildflower Trail and Greenhouse areas or lower St. Francis River are approximately 22 miles away. The Mingo Wildlife Refuge is approximately 31 miles from Old Greenville Recreation Area. The Lake Wappapello State Park is approximately 21 miles away, and the Sam A. Baker State park is 14 miles away from Old Greenville Recreation Area. The nearby 34 Bridge Recreation Area is an ideal place to swim or picnic along its large gravel bars.
Fee Info
Site Type: Full Service (50 Amp, Water, Sewer) $28.00
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundGreenville - Lake Wappapello is located in Missouri
Directions
The physical address of the park is located a mile south of Greenville, MO.From St. Louis, take I-55 south to Highway 67 south toGreenville. From here, continue south about 1 mile and lookfor signs. From Poplar Bluff take Highway 67 north about 29miles and look for signs. If utilizing Apple or Google Maps, key in \"Greenville Recreation Area\". Select the location that is located in Greenville, MO. This will take you directly to the entrance of the campground to check in.
Address
10992 HIGHWAY T
Wappapello, MO 63966-9603
Coordinates
37.1003722 N
90.4558333 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile5GGood Coverage
VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 11/14/25
AT&T5GExcellent Coverage
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GGood Coverage
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 11/14/25
- AT&T5GExcellent Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Sewer Hookups
- Water Hookups
- 50 Amp Hookups
- Big Rig Friendly
Contact
General Info
Reservations
Drive Time
- 1 hr 11 min from Cape Girardeau, MO
- 1 hr 50 min from St. Louis, MO
- 1 hr 51 min from Jonesboro, AR
- 2 hrs 5 min from Paducah, KY
