Best Campgrounds near Arcadia, MO
Camping in the Arcadia region of Missouri centers around the Mark Twain National Forest and several notable state parks, with Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park and Marble Creek Recreation Area serving as popular destinations. The area supports a diverse range of camping styles from developed campgrounds with full hookups to primitive tent sites, with cabins available at Johnson's Shut-Ins and Twin Rivers Landing. Many campgrounds in this region provide access to natural water features, with several sites situated near creeks, rivers, or lakes.
Road access varies throughout the area, with some campgrounds requiring navigation on winding forest roads. Most developed campgrounds remain open year-round, though primitive areas may have seasonal closures from November through March. Water access points and natural features like shut-ins draw significant crowds during summer months, while spring and fall offer more moderate temperatures and fewer visitors. Cell service can be limited in more remote areas, particularly at places like Murphy Overlook dispersed camping area and Bell Mountain Wilderness. As one camper noted about Marble Creek Recreation Area, "The campground is an adventure to get to. Located on a winding road off of 72/21 just south of Arcadia."
State parks in the region typically provide more amenities than the national forest campgrounds, with shower facilities and electric hookups common at Johnson's Shut-Ins and St. Joe State Park. Campers consistently praise the natural attractions surrounding these camping areas, particularly the shut-ins, nearby Elephant Rocks State Park, and the various creeks and rivers that offer swimming and fishing opportunities. Tent sites at many campgrounds feature varied terrain, with some areas more level than others. According to one visitor at Marble Creek, "Campsites are well maintained with fire rings and picnic tables in each site. There is a public pit toilet in the center of the campsites near the entrance. This is a nice location in close proximity to both Elephant Rocks and Johnson Shut-Ins."
