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Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park accommodates pets at its camping areas while offering diverse lodging options including tent sites, RV spots, and cabins. The park features concrete pads at each campsite with ample shade and privacy between sites. Leashed pets must remain under control throughout the campground, though they are not permitted on the main Shut-Ins trail. Basic pet amenities include picnic tables and fire rings at each site, with clean bathroom and shower facilities nearby. Walk-in tent sites provide additional privacy for campers with pets, featuring wooden platforms to accommodate the terrain. The park store stocks essentials and camping supplies for forgotten items. Campground rangers occasionally host evening shows or plays at the main stage near the playground. Campground data and reviews near Black, Missouri is regularly updated on The Dyrt.
Several pet-friendly campgrounds cluster around the Black River area, including Twin Rivers Landing, Parks Bluff Campground, and Bearcat Getaway, all allowing pets with varying amenities. Most require pets remain leashed when outside vehicles or camping units. The Ozark Trail passes near Johnson's Shut-Ins, providing excellent hiking opportunities where dogs are generally welcome, though specific trail restrictions apply. When visiting during summer months, early arrival is recommended as parking areas fill quickly, especially at popular swimming spots. The surrounding area offers multiple state parks within driving distance, including Elephant Rocks State Park where dogs are permitted on trails. Weather varies significantly by season, with comfortable spring and fall temperatures ideal for pet camping, while summer heat requires extra water and shade considerations for dogs.
"Also worth noting is that there is water faucet an a drinking fountain next to the restroom bldg, so you can get fresh water if needed."
"The sites are all walk in but it’s a short walk from your car to the site. Very rocky ground so be careful where you put your tent. Pit toilets are located at the entrance to the campground."
"I'd recommend something AWD or be comfortable with momentum style driving, don't need clearance just need the traction on some of the hills."
"The drive to the site from highway 32 is just over 6 miles on a forest service road (2363). There is a beautiful view of the valley to the south west and we were treated to an incredible sunset."
"This is a beautiful camp ground with electric sites right on the crystal clear Black River. The host is awesome and takes good care of the campground."
"This campground is definitely off the beaten path so make sure that you have the majority of your necessities before setting up camp."
from $10 - $40 / night
Check Availability"We chose the trailhead to the north rather than the trailhead off the Ozark Trail."
"It's about a five hour drive if you don't have to stop, so we got to the trailhead for the Bell mountain loop at around 11pm."
"Large primitive sites with plenty of space and access to community water pump in each area. Full RV hookup sites with room for tent camping friends. Trash pickup."
"It is a popular spot for people who are there to float the Black River.
We were hiking the OT from Taum Sauk to Johnson Shut-ins so we opted for a camping cabin to keep it simple."
from $10 - $15 / night
Check Availability"The campground and lake are both beautiful. It has basic camping utilities. We ourselves like to rough it but unfortunately no fires were allowed...that kinda sucked."
"Pit toilets in pretty bad shape but did we expect any different😂 loved our visit, went down to the lake to swim and found a walking trail by the water just down from our campsite."
from $11 - $100 / night
Check Availability"It’s an affordable place and family/pet friendly and the have horse stables there for your use if needed."
"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!"
from $12 / night
Check Availability"The camp sites in the #70’s are so close to the water and a short walk to the toilet/shower house! The bathrooms could have been cleaner and some of the lights were out but not the worst I have seen!"
"Access to the river is the best. They have float trips and canoes and kayaks for rent. River is crystal clear though it can get crowded. We found a nice secluded beach on the river and it was great."
"The farm animals were a huge hit with the kids and they loved petting and feeding them. We will surely be back!"
"We stay here anytime we want to go to south east Missouri. The owners are absolutely awesome folks the park is immaculately kept the spots are level clean and well kept."
"OZARK TRAIL: I backpacked 50 miles during spring break on the Ozark Trail between Council Bluff Lake and Johnson Shutins State park."
TravelerWhat a magical surprise! Put in 4lo and cross the river and this place opens up to a magical paradise. Sandy beaches, swimming holes, easy to get beyond site of the hwy. I would have never looked here had it not been for this app, and this site is so good I almost don’t want to post up- but this site worth sharing- There was a little trash but all picked up now, I hope it’s still clean when I for sure come back. ;)
GuideIt appears to be a typical state park. There are lots of old trees. Sites are pretty close together but it is late October so it is not crowded. Each spot has a level gravel spot, electrical hook up (some are 50 and others 30 and ours had a 110 plug in which is what we needed, as well as a picnic table, and a fire pit. There are both pit toilets and a large building that has flush toilets and showers. Everything is old and would benefit from a refresh but it was all clean enough for camping.
TravelerTent to electric to full hookups available. multiple shower toilet facilities throughout campground. All sites with nice concrete parking pad.
GuideYes, the road was a bit bumpy, but worth navigating if you can claim a spot. I scored what I would argue is the second best spot - right on the creek just feet from the flowing water. The spot to the right appeared larger and had a rope for the kids (and cool adults) to utilize for launching into the water. The family occupying this space was in ear shot, but I had total privacy aside from a couple groups checking out the the water during the day. The creek had super cool rocks and the water was perfect for casual wading, but too low to swim in the area I was in. No amenities nearby, so pack in and pack out. I did not have any Verizon coverage, so it was two full days of off-the-grid bliss. I would’ve stayed here a a few more days if I had prepared.
GuideQuiet like the night. Clean well groomed spaces are about average size. Off season sure is nice.
ScoutWe stayed at Broken Arrow Campground in Eminence, MO just after peak season. This location was perfect due to the fact we were kayaking about 7 miles of the Jacks Fork River. We started at Alley Springs and pulled out at Broken Arrow Campground.
The campground could use some TLC, but you can quickly tell by the cheaper rates that it is more of a party campground in the summer months. The bathrooms work (bring your own TP), electric and water worked, and the sites have plenty of shade. There are a few walnut trees so be careful where you set your camp in the early fall months.
Is the place a little rough? sure, but it's priced reasonably...and you're camping. We will stay here again.
GuideSuper clean campground. The host is really welcoming and answers any questions you have. Some amazing views of you pick the right spot.
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
TravelerWhat a wonderful place to venture to with a young family. The people that run the campground are beyond generous and go above and beyond to make you feel welcome. The farm animals were a huge hit with the kids and they loved petting and feeding them. We will surely be back!
Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park serves as a central hub for outdoor exploration near Black, Missouri, situated where the East Fork Black River flows through hard volcanic rock formations. The surrounding Mark Twain National Forest covers over 1.5 million acres, creating a diverse ecosystem for wildlife viewing. Seasonal variations affect water levels at the shut-ins, with spring and fall offering moderate temperatures ideal for camping and hiking.
Backpacking on the Ozark Trail: Connect to miles of hiking from Taum Sauk Mountain State Park Campground where you can camp before starting longer treks. "The hike to Mina Sauk falls and Devil's Toll is always worth it. We were the only people in the campground that night, which was a little freaky, but also very peaceful," reports Mara F., who stayed in December before hiking the Taum Sauk to Johnson Shut-Ins portion of the trail.
Fishing spots: The Black River offers excellent fishing opportunities near several campgrounds. At Twin Rivers Landing, campers have direct access to the water. "This camping ground is right by the river. This place has transformed where they offer little bit of everything and reserve ahead of time," notes Jeff P., who recommends booking campsites early.
Wildlife viewing: Early morning and evening hours provide the best opportunities to see native wildlife. Sean A. encountered a black bear near Murphy Overlook dispersed camping area: "Saw an adult black bear when we left, only about 0.5 a mile from camp. Ran across the road in front of us. Keep that in mind!"
Mountain biking: Designated trails connect to several campgrounds, particularly in the Council Bluff area. "Mountain biking and running from the campsite to the trails is very convenient, especially if you snag a site that is farther from the campground entrance," says Megan K.
Secluded camping platforms: The walk-in tent sites at Johnson's Shut-Ins provide extra privacy on wooden platforms. "Beautiful site, each walk-in was spread apart from each other. We loved it and cannot wait to go back," shares Elizabeth W. These platforms keep tents level on the uneven terrain.
Crystal clear water: The Black River's clarity makes it a favorite for swimming and wading. "Waters were super clear," reports Joshua Y. about his stay at Twin Rivers Landing, adding that "the sites were big enough for 4 tents."
Stargazing opportunities: Without light pollution, the night skies offer excellent star viewing. Brian from Murphy Overlook notes: "Being that far from civilization, there was no light pollution so seeing the stars and getting some night photos is possible."
Rock formations: Beyond the shut-ins themselves, the area features unique geological formations. "The granite outcroppings give a lot of places to explore and do some scrambling," explains Tyson B. about the Bell Mountain Wilderness Area, which he describes as having "views you usually only find on marketing material for camp goods."
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies significantly across the area. Brian reported about Murphy Overlook: "AT&T service was spotty - basically nonexistent. So if you're looking for a place to escape and unwind, this is a great location."
Water access considerations: Some campsites require planning ahead for water. "If you go during the spring/early summer like we did when the area experiences a good number of rains the trail can often be slick and muddy," warns Loren G. about hiking at Bell Mountain Wilderness Area.
Road conditions for dispersed sites: Many of the best dispersed camping locations require appropriate vehicles. "This site is accessible by AWD and 4x4 but I would hesitate to attempt it with any other car. The drive to the site from highway 32 is just over 6 miles on a forest service road (2363)," advises Jason F. about Murphy Overlook.
Seasonal considerations: Facilities and water availability change seasonally at many campgrounds. Amanda C. notes about Taum Sauk Mountain: "Pit toilets are located at the entrance to the campground. We didn't see where the water was but it was supposed to be off for the season anyway so we were prepared."
Swimming spots: The Black River provides natural swimming areas suitable for families. At Parks Bluff Campground, "Access to the river is the best. They have float trips and canoes and kayaks for rent. River is crystal clear though it can get crowded," according to Alison S.
Weekend activities: Some campgrounds organize regular events for children. Big Creek RV Park offers "Saturday fun with different campground activities and an evening hayride," according to Mike T., who described the campground as "clean and inviting."
Campground noise levels: Consider sound levels when choosing campsites with children. At Bearcat Getaway, "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," warns Melody B.
Pet restrictions on specific trails: While most campgrounds allow pets, trail rules vary. Erin J. cautions: "We didn't 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."
RV site accessibility: Many campgrounds have limitations for larger vehicles. J K. observes about Sutton Bluff Recreation Area: "This isn't a campground that you would want to bring a large RV into. It's mostly suited for smaller campers or tents."
Hookup availability: Electric and water connections vary across campgrounds. At Big Creek RV Park, Eric H. found "spots were clean and easy to back into or pull through. A little too close to one another for my liking, but well put together and level."
Supply planning: Remote campgrounds require advance planning. "Be advised, not a lot of supplies nearby. Make sure you bring with you," recommends Eric H. about Big Creek RV Park, which is otherwise "very nice setting with all the amenities, including Wifi and Laundry facility."
Dump stations: Not all campgrounds offer full sewer hookups. One camper visiting Council Bluff Recreation Area shared: "I dumped at Washington State park and they have a water tower where the elbow nozzle can unscrew for my hose. I would probably fill up with potable water from there before going to Council Bluff next time."
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Black, MO?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Black, MO is Taum Sauk Mountain State Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 22 reviews.
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TheDyrt.com has all 126 dog-friendly camping locations near Black, MO, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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