Missouri campgrounds around Annapolis offer diverse river-based experiences in the Ozark foothills. The region features elevation changes between 500-1,500 feet with clear spring-fed creeks and rivers running through limestone terrain. Summer temperatures reach the high 80s with moderate humidity, while spring and fall provide milder camping conditions with temperatures in the 60-70°F range.
What to do
Creek exploration: Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park offers unique swimming and wading opportunities in natural water features. "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," notes Erin J. The park features geological formations where the river flows through volcanic rock.
Riverside relaxation: Twin Rivers Landing provides direct access to the Black River. One visitor mentions, "This place is right by the river. This place has transformed where they offer little bit of everything and reserve ahead of time. I highly recommend you reserve canoe or Kayak at time of your camping reservation." Water activities are best scheduled for weekdays to avoid crowds.
Hiking trails: Silver Mines connects to multiple forest paths. "We did find ourselves wishing there was a map of available trails in the area. We couldn't find one anywhere in the park. Basically, you have to stumble across a trail head," reports one camper. Trail maps are available at the Forest Service office in Potosi before arrival.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Silver Mines offers secluded camping spots. "The campsites provide the basics: a fire pit, picnic table, lantern hook, and flat gravel area for tents," explains Mara F. Each site is positioned with natural buffers between neighbors.
Clean facilities: Sam A. Baker State Park maintains well-kept restrooms and grounds. "The park as usual was yet maintained in almost perfect conditions, staff was very nice," reports John K. The park offers multiple shower facilities with regular cleaning schedules.
River access: Twin Rivers Landing provides convenient water entry points. "Waters were super clear. They have bathrooms and showers. Att cell service works good here," notes Joshua Y. The riverfront access requires no hiking or difficult terrain navigation.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds fill quickly during summer weekends. "We spent a few days here enjoying exploring the area! There has been quite a bit of rain and the water levels were high. Water wasn't on at the campground yet - and there are not hookups at each campsite," reports Megan B. about Silver Mines.
Seasonal availability: Some facilities operate with limited services in spring. "The park is open year-round and there looks to be some year-round residents, but it's a clean, well tended campground and the care the owners give it is apparent," notes Susan L. about Camelot RV Campground.
Trail conditions: Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park has specific pet restrictions on certain paths. "Camp sites were somewhat close together so hope you like neighbors. We didn't check the nearby trails to the shut-ins before coming. The shut-ins trail DOES NOT allow dogs," warns Erin J. Trail rules vary significantly between parks in the region.
Tips for camping with families
Activity scheduling: Mid-week visits reduce crowds at water features. At Sam A. Baker State Park, one visitor reports, "Beautiful view. You can sit in the cool clear water and relax. Great place for kids. Park is well maintained. I highly recommend."
Kid-friendly water areas: Big Creek RV Park offers controlled swimming options. "The creek is nice for cooling down on a hot day, but there is a pool if you'd rather do that. Saturday is fun with different campground activities and an evening hayride," shares Mike T. The park organizes scheduled weekend activities for children.
Educational opportunities: State parks provide junior ranger programs during summer months. "They also had neat programs going on while we were there including a smores contest and adult scavenger hunt," mentions Charlotte B. about Johnson's Shut-Ins. Programs typically run between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing: Camelot RV Campground offers varied site layouts. "The campground sits on a hill so the sites are terraced and there are mature trees everywhere. The trash bins were located up the hill from my site. Not a problem for me to access, but someone with mobility issues might find the location less than ideal," explains Susan L.
Leveling considerations: Bring adequate blocking materials for uneven sites. "My site was gravel, fairly level and the hook ups were conveniently located and in great condition. Some of the sites are spaced apart rather tightly," notes Susan L. about Camelot RV Campground.
Shopping access: Supply locations require planning. "This is a no frills quite park. Simple one the best park in all of southern Missouri," explains Aron J. about rv campgrounds near Annapolis, Missouri. Most campgrounds are 10-15 miles from major grocery stores.
