The area surrounding Bonne Terre offers varied camping experiences across elevations ranging from 700 to 1,500 feet in the ancient St. Francois Mountains. Camping spots near Bonne Terre, Missouri provide access to unique geological features including granite formations, mountain peaks, and river-cut valleys. Many campgrounds remain accessible in cooler months with reduced crowds, creating more peaceful overnight conditions.
What to do
Explore off-road trails: St. Joe State Park Campground in Park Hills features extensive off-road vehicle trails across former mining land. "Good place to ride your off-road vehicles. Lots of trails and plenty of different types of trails to try out," writes J.T. The park offers designated areas for motorized recreation separate from hiking trails.
Visit historic petroglyphs: Washington State Park Campground preserves Native American rock carvings accessible via short trails. "The prehistoric Petroglyphs nearby are a must see," notes Phil W. The park's interpretive displays explain the significance of these ancient carvings created by indigenous peoples.
Cool off in natural waterways: During summer months, Johnson's Shut-Ins offers a natural water playground where the Black River flows through narrow volcanic rock channels. "The kids loved climbing all over the shut-ins. We have already planned to return in the summer to swim!" says Ashlee B. Water temperatures remain cool even during hot summer days.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Hawn State Park Campground offers well-spaced camping areas, particularly in the walk-in section. "Small park as far as the amount of campsites, but this makes it peaceful and secluded. Great restrooms/showers," notes Jenny H. Sites are situated among pine trees that create natural separation.
Hiking through diverse ecosystems: Taum Sauk Mountain State Park provides access to Missouri's highest point with camping directly on the mountain. "The hike to Mina Sauk falls and Devil's Toll is always worth it," says Mara F. The park's trails traverse through deciduous forests with oak and hickory trees, leading to rocky outcroppings with valley views.
Dedicated camping platforms: Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park features raised wooden platforms for tent camping in the walk-in area. "The walkin sites are on platforms and are spaced for privacy," reports Chad K. These platforms provide flat sleeping surfaces on otherwise rocky terrain and help minimize environmental impact.
What you should know
Weekend noise variations: St. Francois State Park experiences noise from the nearby Bonne Terre drag strip during race weekends. "The campground is also loud on the weekends especially if there are races at the nearby Bonne Terre drag strip," reports Cody S. Race schedules can be checked in advance for quieter camping periods.
Site terrain considerations: Taum Sauk Mountain State Park Campground has rocky ground that requires careful tent placement. "Very rocky ground so be careful where you put your tent," advises Amanda C. Some sites feature natural moss covering that can provide cushioning between rocks.
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds in the region fill quickly during summer months. "We stayed on a Monday-Wednesday in a walk-in spot in loop 5. Every spot was occupied but park was maintained well," notes Becky T. about Johnson's Shut-Ins. Weekday stays often require advance booking during peak season.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly water activities: Twin Eagle Lake Estates & Hideout offers calm lake swimming with easy access points. "The lake has many easy entrances for swimmers near the club house - broad steps or large boulder for the more adventurous. Can be a bit slippery tho so bring your water shoes," advises Wendy P. Children can safely wade into shallow areas.
Short hiking options: Washington State Park features trails suitable for various ability levels. "We hiked the 1000 step trail. Most of the campers did fine but those who were not use to hiking did struggle a bit," says Scott M. Younger children may prefer the shorter, flatter trails near the visitor center.
Dedicated recreational facilities: St. Joe State Park maintains two swimming beaches with designated swimming areas. "Two clean and well kept swimming areas, great trails, good camp sites, and great bathrooms/showers!" reports Olivia S. The shallow beach areas provide safer swimming opportunities for children.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV access at some locations: Taum Sauk Mountain State Park does not accommodate RVs due to site limitations. "TENT CAMPING ONLY!!! My friend had been turned away on a previous trip!" warns Lynn G. RV campers should focus on St. Joe or St. Francois State Parks instead.
Site leveling requirements: St. Joe State Park Campground provides concrete pads at some sites to assist with leveling. "We had a spot with electric and no water, water is located close by the vault toilets. The site has a gravel parking area rather than the concrete one at CG#1," explains Olivia S. when comparing campground sections. RVers should bring leveling blocks for gravel sites.
Campground layout variations: St. Francois State Park has different camping loops with varying degrees of privacy. "The electric loop sites are close together," mentions Cody S. RVers looking for more space might prefer Campground #2 at St. Joe State Park where sites are more generously sized.
