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.
What to do
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.
What campers like
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.
What you should know
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.
Tips for camping with families
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.
Tips from RVers
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.
