Annapolis, Missouri sits at approximately 950 feet elevation in the eastern Ozarks, surrounded by the St. Francois Mountains and Mark Twain National Forest. The region receives about 45 inches of rainfall annually, creating the clear streams and rivers that draw campers to the area. Cell service can be spotty throughout the region, with many campgrounds requiring a 10-15 minute drive to find reliable signal.
What to do
River activities: Float trips on the Black River offer cooling recreation during summer months. At Twin Rivers Landing, visitors enjoy "a nice easy float trip for us. The waters were super clear" according to Joshua Y., who notes the campground provides equipment rentals right on site.
Mountain hiking: Explore Missouri's highest point at Taum Sauk Mountain State Park Campground. Kelsie L. describes it as "Self-service campsites, the closest you can get to backpacking with access to a toilet! The overlook to the valley is beautiful, especially for sunrise, and another short walk will take you to the marker for MO highest point."
Swimming in natural shut-ins: The region's unique geological features create natural water parks where rivers narrow through rock formations. According to Shannon B. at Marble Creek Rec Area, "You can spend the day floating in the river or swimming near the little shut-ins watering hole. Fire wood can be purchased about a mile up the road for fairly cheap."
What campers like
Natural water features: The crystal-clear spring water draws many visitors. At Silver Mines, Jamie B. notes the campground offers "just a short walk down to the beautiful river where you can see the small waterfall and hike upriver to see another. Just an all around amazing spot."
Spacious, private sites: Many area campgrounds offer well-spaced sites. Elizabeth W. at Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park describes, "Beautiful site, each walk-in was spread apart from each other. We loved it and cannot wait to go back."
Clean facilities: Campground cleanliness rates high with reviewers. J K. at Highway K mentions, "We have stayed here a few times over the past couple of years and really enjoy that it's right on the Black River. The campground is actually made up of two different campgrounds, East and West."
What you should know
Seasonal water availability: Water systems at some parks shut down during colder months. Amanda C. at Taum Sauk Mountain notes, "Water wasn't on at the campground yet - and there are not hookups at each campsite" during their early November visit.
Weekend crowds: Many campgrounds fill quickly, especially near water features. Curtis M. advises about Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park, "Lots of folks are aware of this once hidden gem so go during the week."
Limited supplies: The remote nature of the region means planning ahead. Eric H. at Big Creek RV Park warns, "Be advised, not a lot of supplies nearby. Make sure you bring with you."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly campsites: Families find accessible options throughout the area. Madelyn H. at Sam A. Baker State Park Campground says, "My group and I stayed in Campground 1 and we were so pleased with how well-kept our sites were. Even during the last weekend of September, it was hot out, so we were glad there were plenty of trees around."
Kid-friendly water access: Safe swimming areas appeal to families with children. Abby D. recommends Marble Creek: "This spot was perfect for our group of friends bringing children! Site #20 had a perfect path to the water, and a reasonable creek walk up to a swimming hole."
Dog friendly campgrounds near Annapolis: Several campgrounds welcome four-legged family members. Erin J. at Johnson's Shut-Ins advises, "Very nice campground with nice showers and clean bathrooms. Check the nearby trails to the shut-ins before coming. The shut-ins trail DOES NOT allow dogs so that's a bummer. Found some other local hiking trails so overall it wasn't too bad."
Tips from RVers
Site selection based on rig size: Different campgrounds accommodate various RV sizes. J K. explains, "The East is the older campground while the West campground is newer and geared more towards larger RVs and features bigger sites. Although we have camped at both with our 40 foot fifth wheel and as long as you pay attention to the trees you can still get around the East campground without any problems."
Full hookup availability: For complete amenities, Bearcat Getaway offers what many RVers need. Hayden H. notes, "Great campsites, elec available no dump and community water only. Black river access on site. Firewood included with site rental. Ice is only $2.50."
Seasonal considerations: Weather impacts access and amenities. Kristine K. mentions about Highway K, "Pretty sites, nice park. No wifi or cell service. Had to drive 10 minutes to a small town to get a signal. River access nearby was really nice."
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