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Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park does not offer dedicated horse facilities or corrals for equestrian camping. The campground features standard amenities including electric hookups, water access, showers, and sanitary dump stations primarily designed for tent, RV, and cabin camping. While the park permits pets, there are no specific accommodations for horses such as corrals, stalls, or designated equestrian campsites. The concrete pads at campsites are primarily configured for RVs and trailers, with some walk-in tent sites available on wooden platforms. Campground reviews indicate sites are generally well-spaced with adequate privacy despite being designed primarily for recreational vehicles.
None of the campgrounds near Black, Missouri listed in the provided data feature horse-specific facilities or dedicated equestrian camping areas. Trail riders seeking horse-friendly accommodations may need to explore other regions in Missouri that specifically advertise equestrian camping options. Nearby Mark Twain National Forest does contain some multi-use trails, but the reviewed campgrounds lack equestrian-specific amenities such as corrals, highlines, or designated horse camping areas. The surrounding area offers numerous hiking trails and water recreation opportunities, but those planning trips with horses should contact campgrounds directly to confirm current equestrian policies, as some locations may permit horses with appropriate containment arrangements even without dedicated facilities.
"Johnson Shut-Ins State Park is located on the Black River in Missouri, just south of St. Louis. This makes it a popular location on hot summer days, especially weekends."
"It is located on the Black River, and the water flowing through the shut-ins is crystal clear and cool."
from $15 - $80 / night
Check Availability"Nice float on the Black River. Cool water and beach to sit and watch the floaters go by in as well! Group sites and were pretty large and mostly shady. This place is lit up fast after dark!"
"It’s an affordable place and family/pet friendly and the have horse stables there for your use if needed."
from $12 / night
Check Availability"We enjoyed our 1.5 mile hike to get to the river access to float. We brought our own flotation devices and really enjoyed every aspect of the seclusion."
"There are 2 huge campgrounds (around 100 sites each!) and a nice paved bike path connecting them."
from $15 - $52 / night
Check Availability"This is really the gem of Missouri state parks. Rv sites are all full 30/50 amp with water and sewer. All spots have plenty of room but are back in. The pads are perfectly level and are concrete."
"Went here hoping to see the wild horses. We didn't see any but still loved this park. Nice hiking trails and clean cool creek to splash in. Will go back again and maybe see the wild horses next time."
from $13 - $34 / night
Check Availability"OZARK TRAIL: I backpacked 50 miles during spring break on the Ozark Trail between Council Bluff Lake and Johnson Shutins State park."
"It's remote and off the beaten path. A small campground with only 8 spots, some big enough for RVs. No hook ups or water. Pack it in and pack it out. Each site had enough space from each other."
"Pavillion, parking and horse tie out area adjacent trailhead. Excellent place to bring the kids if you want to unplug them from the media world. Trails and bugs and things that go bump in the night."
from $8 - $15 / night
Check Availability"this campground is totally off the beaten path. a great place to relax and unwind. this is also a good place if your new to off grid camping and want to test your gear before you say bye to society. the"
"She just wasn't there when we arrived, and we had a hard time determining property boundaries, tent site locations, etc. on our own."
from $15 - $30 / night
Check Availability"So, as one of Missouri’s atv parks, this can be a load one. But, you can camp at campground 2, and you’re dealing with a MUCH more classic camping scenario."
"A great spot with a minute walk to a very well kept shower house and bathroom. We really liked this spot at CG#1."
from $15 - $52 / night
Check Availability"Enjoyed my stay and hikes on the equestrian trails. At the time no horses were around, only other tent campers, one of which gave me their extra camp wood."
"This site was probably my favorite one in Missouri so far. Has a few sites that are great for groups. Then a few sites that are more private for solo/family camps."
"Not a huge campground but, Its a really simple beautiful place to enjoy Missouri's rolling hills. It is located 1 hour from St. Louis and 30 ish min from Elephant Rock State park."
"My site was close to the camp host and the shower house. Shower house was nice with 4 separate showers with locking doors. Water pressure was great and they were clean."
from $15 - $27 / night
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TravelerThe camp sites are full hook up with good size lots. Lots of room for dogs to run. They have hiking trails, lake for paddle boarding or kayaks( free to use on site), mini golf( have to supply own balls they have putters) 9 hole golf course,and Disc golf. The pool and shower house with game rooms are clean and showers open 24/7. Grounds keepers go a fantastic job
RangerThis is a decent campground to stay for free. There is a pit toilet. There was only one picnic table and not many defined spots but I think you can pull up in the grass wherever you like. It's right at a trailhead. I started to walk the trail but couldn't find it when it crossed the road. The roads are good getting here. The campground road has a few pot holes, but nothing too bad. I would come back here and look for nearby hiking.
GuideI gave this campground a five star again. I am a solo female camper. I like to go to places that are safe with a good atmosphere and this had both and plenty of things to do a roundabout when coming through this area again I will definitely stay here.
GuideGreat site. Loved the bike path to the shut-ins. Hosts were awesome. Camp store had lots!!!
TravelerAs with every Mo State park we've been to so far, it is perfect. Easy access to the river for fishing and swimming. RV sites have electrical and water hookups. Some have sewage as well. Showers available. Even a restaurant at the lodge as well as a store with the basics, and beer!
LegendThe campground is very new and modern. Not too many trees though. Great hiking, biking, and boating. There is a hotel, restaurant, and cabins for rent. Food is good at the restaurant. Watch for the wild horses! This is great for any size rig and beautiful walk in tent sites on platforms.
LegendThe trees changes are amazing in the fall. Lots of great camping spots to select from. Good for any kind of camping and has cabins, store, and restaurant. Great bike trails and plenty of water play in the river.
LegendThis is a park not far from St Louis with camping and hiking. Campground is on the small side.
LegendWhat's more to love? It has paved spots, great amenities, cool spring water, cabins, a lodge and gorgeous scenery.
Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park campground accommodates tent, RV, and cabin camping with several loops designed for different preferences. Loop 5 features walk-in sites on wooden platforms that provide more privacy than other loops. The park restricts pets from certain trails, including the main Shut-Ins Trail. During summer months, the campground fills quickly, requiring reservations several months in advance for weekend stays. Winter camping offers more solitude but requires preparation for potentially cold conditions.
Water recreation at Johnson's Shut-Ins: The geological formation creates natural water slides and swimming holes in summer. "The shut-ins trail DOES NOT allow dogs so that's a bummer," notes Erin J., who visited Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park.
Live music at Bearcat Getaway: This campground on the Black River hosts weekend performances. "They have live music and food every weekend, sometimes it can get a little loud so if quiet camping is what you prefer, some sites may not be for you," reports Melody B. from Bearcat Getaway.
Hiking at Hazel Creek: Trails wind through densely wooded areas with creek access. "Enjoyed my stay and hikes on the equestrian trails. At the time no horses were around, only other tent campers, one of which gave me their extra camp wood," writes Sterling M. about Hazel Creek Campground.
Mountain biking on multi-use trails: Sam A. Baker State Park offers several biking opportunities. "Super park for great biking, hiking, river access, restaurant, great camp store. This park always has a lot of activities for the campers!" explains Jenny H. who stayed at Sam A. Baker.
Secluded walk-in sites: Johnson's Shut-Ins offers platform sites away from the main camping loops. "Beautiful site, each walk-in was spread apart from each other. We loved it and cannot wait to go back," shares Elizabeth W. who camped at the park.
Free camping with basic amenities: Berryman Trail Campground provides no-cost options with minimal facilities. "This is a great free campground, no water or anything, just a toilet house. Campground has 8 spots... nice and spacious," reports Tommy S. from Berryman Trail Campground.
River access for floating: Many campgrounds provide direct water entry points. "Nice float on the Black River. Cool water and beach to sit and watch the floaters go by in as well! Group sites and were pretty large and mostly shady," notes Jennifer G. about Bearcat Getaway.
Off-road vehicle trails: St. Joe State Park maintains designated areas for ATVs and dirt bikes. "Good place to ride your off road vehicles. Lots of trails and plenty of different types of trails to try out. Good clean campground for the hole family to enjoy," shares J.T. who visited St. Joe State Park Campground.
Limited equestrian camping facilities: While Hazel Creek and Berryman campgrounds have equestrian trails, they lack dedicated horse corrals or stalls. "There are no amenities other than fire rings, picnic tables, and food posts. There is no cell phone coverage," warns Art Z. about Hazel Creek Campground.
Seasonal crowds: Many parks become extremely busy during summer weekends. "Lots of folks are aware of this once hidden gem so go during the week," advises Curtis M. about Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park.
Cell service limitations: Reception varies significantly between campgrounds. "No cell service for both my AT&T and Verizon phones," reports Chris J. about camping at Hazel Creek, while others note intermittent service at Berryman Trail.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds host events or are near motorsports facilities. "This place is lit up fast after dark! Large stage with live music becomes a big party. In my younger days this was a blast!" explains Jennifer G. about weekend evenings at Bearcat Getaway.
Platform tent sites: Johnson's Shut-Ins offers elevated camping spots ideal for families. "There are hookup sites as well as a primitive loop for tent camping. The cart provided was great to walk our gear down the trail to our site, and there was a flat deck for us to camp on," explains Shelby B.
Scheduled activities: Some parks organize family-friendly events. "They also had neat programs going on while we were there including a smores contest and adult scavenger hunt," notes Charlotte B. about Johnson's Shut-Ins.
Swimming areas with gradual entry: Several parks feature river access with shallow sections. "Beautiful camp sites and a beautiful river to paddle around on. This park usually isn't very crowded which is really nice," shares Charlotte B. about Sam A. Baker State Park Campground.
Camping store conveniences: Some parks maintain well-stocked stores. "The store was nice, and we got some great ice cream on the way out," mentions Shelby B. who appreciated the convenience at Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park.
Site placement considerations: Electric sites may have less shade than primitive areas. "The electrical spots are all in cut grass areas, many with great shade trees. The no-service sites are more wooded," notes Mats about St. Francois State Park.
Level concrete pads: Johnson's Shut-Ins features well-maintained RV sites. "Nice paved sites that have picnic tables & fire pits," reports Ashlee B. who enjoyed camping there.
Weekend noise awareness: Campgrounds with event venues may become loud during weekends. "If you appreciate peaceful days and nights, check out the racing schedule first," advises Mats regarding the nearby motorsports arena near St. Francois.
Limited availability for larger rigs: Some campgrounds have size restrictions. "Spacious and Beautiful. We spent a one night get-away at Hazel Creek with our 30 foot travel trailer. The gravel road into the campground was no problem for a pickup with a trailer," reports Art Z. about accessing Hazel Creek Campground.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Black, MO?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Black, MO is Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park Campground with a 4.8-star rating from 57 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Black, MO?
TheDyrt.com has all 29 equestrian camping locations near Black, MO, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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