The camping landscape around Bourbon, Missouri features the Huzzah and Meramec watersheds at elevations between 700-900 feet above sea level. This Ozark region's terrain consists of steep forested hillsides with exposed limestone bluffs surrounding clear, rocky-bottomed streams. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-95°F, while spring and fall offer milder camping conditions with overnight temperatures that can drop into the 40s.
What to do
Creek swimming access points: At Red Bluff Campground, campers can enjoy natural swimming holes along the Huzzah Creek. "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," notes Gwenn W. The creek features large boulders for jumping, small fish, and plenty of pretty shells along the rocky beaches.
Organized activities for children: Family-friendly Indian Springs Resort schedules regular activities to keep kids engaged. "It's VERY family-oriented with tons of games like volleyball and horseshoes, plus onsite programs and activities including scavenger hunts, movie nights, pancake breakfasts, etc," reports Taryn S. The resort maintains a seasonal pool and a large sandy beach with natural swimming areas.
Explore historic petroglyphs: For a cultural experience, Washington State Park offers prehistoric Native American rock carvings. "The prehistoric Petroglyphs nearby are a must see," writes Phil W. The park features three hiking trails of varying difficulty through pine forests, with the 1000 Steps Trail providing more challenging terrain for experienced hikers.
What campers like
Private riverside sites: At many glamping spots close to Bourbon, Missouri, campers value riverside privacy. "We stayed in sites 61-64 (now one huge site), which directly overlooks the river and sits on a very private corner. The sites on this end are a bit of a walk to the bathrooms/showers and camp store, but also extremely spacious and private," explains Taryn S. about Indian Springs Resort.
Fall camping weather: Autumn brings ideal camping conditions to the Ozarks. "Beautiful location friendly staff great facilities! Cell service is sketchy but it's perfect for getting off the grid," reports Kelly M. about Meramec Caverns Natural Campground. "Fall camping at its best!" The changing leaves create scenic backdrops throughout the region's forests.
Varied terrain options: Campers appreciate the diverse camping environments available. "The bluff camping would be awesome...they are primitive sites, but the view is beautiful," shares Kelly M. about Red Bluff Campground. "We met a couple from Kansas that drives 6 hours to camp here every year, that says a lot."
What you should know
Flash flood risk: Several campgrounds sit in flood-prone areas. "There are flood level signs everywhere and you could see where flash floods had happened on the lowest level of camp," reports Jennifer G. Sites at higher elevations provide safer alternatives during rainy periods.
Limited cell coverage: Most glamping facilities near Bourbon have spotty connectivity. "Cell service is sketchy but it's perfect for getting off the grid," notes Kelly M. Hummingbird Hollow Outdoors Farm Sanctuary provides a particularly disconnected experience with only 5 total campsites.
Pay showers at some locations: Several campgrounds charge for shower usage. "Showers needed quarters to operate," mentions Donna H. about Bass' River Resort. Plan to bring change for facilities that require payment for hot water.
Tips for camping with families
Campground selection by noise level: Choose camping areas based on expected activity levels. At Huzzah Valley Resort, "They have a family side and a party side (the zoo). Don't expect to get much rest in the zoo," advises Joseph A. "The zoo" section tends to be louder, especially during weekends and peak summer months.
Creek safety supervision: The rocky-bottomed streams have variable depths requiring careful monitoring of children. "Parents take caution, the water can be very shallow in some spots and suddenly drop off to six or seven feet deep," warns Gwenn W. Wearing water shoes helps protect against sharp rocks.
Weather contingency plans: Spring and early summer storms can impact camping plans. "The only reason I didn't rate it 5 stars is because sometimes the park closes or they have to evacuate due to the quick rise of the river. Easy fix though, just call ahead to see if they're open," recommends Randy H.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for privacy: For RV glamping close to Bourbon, Missouri, strategic site choice matters. "We were able to reserve side by side and had a great time," mentions Kristen about Blue Spring Ranch. "The general store has most everything you need, its quiet, family friendly and well maintained."
Electrical considerations: Some RV sites have limited amp service. "Easy plug n play electric on a 30 amp box, no issues with blowing fuses like I have at other big state parks," notes David T. about Washington State Park Campground. Check amp requirements before booking.
Check site levelness: Many campgrounds have uneven terrain. "Clean and peaceful, very few campers when I was here maybe because it was before school was out & during the week," shares Linda S. about Meramec Caverns. Request a level site when making reservations, particularly for larger rigs.
