Missouri's Mark Twain National Forest provides diverse camping terrain near Bonne Terre, where elevations range from 500 to 1,700 feet. Located about 60 miles southwest of St. Louis, this region features oak-hickory forests, dolomite bluffs, and clear-running streams that maintain cool temperatures even during summer months. Fall camping is particularly popular when humidity drops and temperatures range from 45-75°F between September and November.
What to do
Hike the Mooners Hollow Trail: Located near Hawn State Park Campground, this trail offers pine-filled valleys and creek crossings. "Nowhere else in the state of Missouri have I been able to camp and feel like I'm in the middle of the Rocky Mountains. The trails are amazing with big boulders and beautiful creeks," shares one visitor.
Explore prehistoric petroglyphs: The Native American rock art at Washington State Park Campground provides a glimpse into ancient history. "Washington State Park is a hidden gem in Missouri! The prehistoric Petroglyphs nearby are a must see," notes a camper who visited in March 2021.
Float the Big River: Many campgrounds offer canoe, kayak, and tubing rentals for exploring local waterways. "My husband and I kayaked here and it was amazing! Probably the best short trip you could take on a kayak," reports one Washington State Park visitor.
What campers like
Crystal clear creeks: The Huzzah Creek at Red Bluff Campground is popular for swimming and wildlife watching. "The Huzzah creek is rocky but beautiful. You have to be careful because there are sudden drop-offs, it can be two feet deep and then you take a few steps and it's seven feet deep," warns a regular visitor.
Fall foliage views: Many campers report October as prime time for scenic camping. "Hawn is one of the best fall campgrounds close to the St. Louis area. There are a number of hiking options around the campground in the park and nearby nature reserve," notes one camper.
Spacious group sites: Several campgrounds feature extra-large sites for family gatherings. "For our annual cousin campout in our ancestral home of Davisville we reserved site 24 and the group site directly behind it. It was beautiful and perfect," shares a Red Bluff Campground visitor.
What you should know
Flash flood risks: Several campgrounds sit in flood-prone areas. "Unfortunately it was in a flash flood hazard zone and hurricane Barry was dumping rain on us. There are new campsites under construction, farther back from the river," reports one camper at Red Bluff.
Noise factors: Some campgrounds experience unexpected noise. "The campground is also loud on the weekends especially if there are races at the nearby Bonne Terre drag strip," notes a visitor to St. Francois State Park Campground.
Limited cell service: Many campgrounds have spotty coverage. "There is no cell phone coverage. Follow the USFS directions, not Google Maps. That will put you on good paved roads," advises a visitor to Hazel Creek Campground.
Glamping alternatives: For those seeking luxury camping close to Bonne Terre, Missouri, several outfitters provide premium accommodations. "We stayed in site #86 and the sites around us seemed to be a little more spread out than others," a glamping visitor noted.
Tips for camping with families
Accessible swimming spots: Twin Eagle Lake Estates & Hideout offers family-friendly water access. "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 one visitor.
Halloween camping events: Some campgrounds host special seasonal activities. "They have day long family friendly activities and the campsites deck out for Halloween with a $500 prize for best. Then at dusk trick or treat. Very accommodating," shares a Twin Eagle visitor.
Choose sites away from traffic: Strategic site selection improves the experience. "Loved the campground! However, lesson learned to reserve a campsite further from the road. Great hiking trails," suggests a Washington State Park camper.
Tips from RVers
Gravel pad quality: Many RV sites feature crushed gravel that may require leveling. "The campsites are large. Several back up to the creek, which is shallow and pretty. The rest are scattered through the wooded campground," notes a visitor to Hazel Creek Campground.
30-amp vs. 50-amp service: Electrical capacity varies between parks. "Easy plug n play electric on a 30 amp box, no issues with blowing fuses like I have at other big state parks," shares a Washington State Park visitor from December.
Proximity to St. Louis: Most campgrounds with glamping near Bonne Terre, Missouri sit within 60-90 minutes of the city. "This is a nice campground if you're looking for an easy place to get to from St Louis. The campsites are nice and shaded," notes one Washington State Park visitor.
