5 campgrounds with availability this weekend
Echo Bluff State Park houses extensive camping options for recreational visitors with horses near Bunker, Missouri. The campground features several wilderness trails suitable for horseback riding and connects to broader trail networks in the Ozark region. Wild horses occasionally visit the park, observed by numerous campers throughout the seasons. Full hookup RV sites with water, electric, and sewer connections accommodate larger vehicles and horse trailers with adequate parking space. The park provides clean restrooms, showers, and well-maintained grounds that stay open year-round.
Riding opportunities extend throughout the surrounding area with direct access to multiple trail systems. The nearby Current River offers additional recreation options after trail riding. Tent camping platforms in the walk-in area provide a more secluded experience for equestrians preferring a rustic setting. Horse-friendly policies allow riders to explore the park's natural features including Sinking Creek and the towering bluffs that give the park its name. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially during peak seasons, as the campground frequently reaches capacity. Trail users should be aware of occasional wildlife encounters including the free-roaming wild horse band that inhabits the area.
"This is really the gem of Missouri state parks. Rv sites are all full 30/50 amp with water and sewer. All spots have plenty of room but are back in. The pads are perfectly level and are concrete."
"Went here hoping to see the wild horses. We didn't see any but still loved this park. Nice hiking trails and clean cool creek to splash in. Will go back again and maybe see the wild horses next time."
Available this weekend
from $12 - $27 / night
"Johnson Shut-Ins State Park is located on the Black River in Missouri, just south of St. Louis. This makes it a popular location on hot summer days, especially weekends."
"It is located on the Black River, and the water flowing through the shut-ins is crystal clear and cool."
Available this weekend
from $14 - $75 / night
"Family operated and located in the Ozark Mountains with beautiful scenery nearby to explore."
from $56 - $65 / night
"We took a last-minute trip on a beautiful weekend in June 2020 to get outside (responsibly) during the pandemic. Two Rivers campground did not disappoint!"
"Be sure to visit the nearby springs and sites of the recreational area. The springs are so deep blue and dramatic against the rocky cliffs."
Available this weekend
from $10 - $25 / night
"It’s an affordable place and family/pet friendly and the have horse stables there for your use if needed."
"Now I opt for a site as far away from the stage as possible and do not bring my children here lol. Nice facilities, no real complaints. I bet weekdays are a lot more serene."
from $12 / night
"They even got a place to park your horse. About every thing you want to do is near by, I recommend you to give this place a try first before going anywhere else. They are Open all year round!"
"The campsites are a little close together but no one was at the one next to us so it did not feel so bad. Staff was very nice and friendly."
"People were wonderful and you are right next to the water. Pickup for float trips is nice too If the facilities are great it would be five stars."
"We enjoyed our 1.5 mile hike to get to the river access to float. We brought our own flotation devices and really enjoyed every aspect of the seclusion."
"There are 2 huge campgrounds (around 100 sites each!) and a nice paved bike path connecting them."
Available this weekend
from $14 - $46 / night
"this campground is totally off the beaten path. a great place to relax and unwind. this is also a good place if your new to off grid camping and want to test your gear before you say bye to society. the"
"She just wasn't there when we arrived, and we had a hard time determining property boundaries, tent site locations, etc. on our own."
from $15 - $30 / night
"If you want to see the wild horses of Shannon County, this is the place to stay. Right on the Jack's Fork, so beautiful. New bathrooms, but everything else is primitive. "
from $10 / night
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
RangerThis is a decent campground to stay for free. There is a pit toilet. There was only one picnic table and not many defined spots but I think you can pull up in the grass wherever you like. It's right at a trailhead. I started to walk the trail but couldn't find it when it crossed the road. The roads are good getting here. The campground road has a few pot holes, but nothing too bad. I would come back here and look for nearby hiking.
GuideGreat site. Loved the bike path to the shut-ins. Hosts were awesome. Camp store had lots!!!
TravelerAs with every Mo State park we've been to so far, it is perfect. Easy access to the river for fishing and swimming. RV sites have electrical and water hookups. Some have sewage as well. Showers available. Even a restaurant at the lodge as well as a store with the basics, and beer!
LegendThe campground is very new and modern. Not too many trees though. Great hiking, biking, and boating. There is a hotel, restaurant, and cabins for rent. Food is good at the restaurant. Watch for the wild horses! This is great for any size rig and beautiful walk in tent sites on platforms.
LegendThe trees changes are amazing in the fall. Lots of great camping spots to select from. Good for any kind of camping and has cabins, store, and restaurant. Great bike trails and plenty of water play in the river.
LegendWhat's more to love? It has paved spots, great amenities, cool spring water, cabins, a lodge and gorgeous scenery.
GuideI know a large majority of the park is meant for ORV’s but there was just constant noise even in the campground. Besides that it was great though!
ScoutDecided to visit with family(wife, teenage daughter, and 76 y.o. father) this Saturday afternoon, after completing a peaceful hike at Onandoga S.P., to consider camping later in the week. We politely, respectfully drove into the campground on the MAIN LOOP, around 5-10 mph, and checked the condition of the campsites. We noticed a few other campers present throughout the campground. Our windows were rolled down. Near the primitive campsites, a white vehicle rapidly, aggressively approached us from the left, rear of our car. Horn blaring. RECKLESSLY drove right up onto our rear bumper, then swerved to the left to try to force us over. The man rapidly approached us from his vehicle and accosted us with multiple, rapid fire questions what we were doing and why we were there. WHILE HE WAS AGGRESSIVELY INTERROGATING US, HE WAS CROUCHED FORWARD, POSTURING THAT HE WAS PREPARED TO DRAW ON US. I COULD CLEARLY SEE HIS LEFT HAND ON A FIREARM IN HIS LEFT POCKET- the handle of the firearm was clearly visible. The silhouette of the gun was clearly visible in his left pants pocket. Any reasonably intelligent person would have seen as we drove at a near walking pace on the main loop that we were not there to cause any problems. Any REMOTELY INTELLIGENT person would have instantly realized that we were just a family checking out potential campsites. Any reasonable person would have also considered this RECKLESS ACT OF AGGRESSION as a threat on their family. I was concerned for the safely of my family and myself. An embarrassing act of overreach. The"security guard" identified himself as"Dave." We will NEVER give this place our business again. I will NEVER risk taking my family here again. This place probably does not want your family here either...
Echo Bluff State Park provides equestrian camping options near Bunker, Missouri, situated within the rugged Ozark highlands at approximately 800 feet elevation. The region features limestone and dolomite geology that creates unique waterways including springs, losing streams, and clear rivers. Winter temperatures typically range from 25-45°F, while summer months average 70-90°F with moderate humidity compared to other parts of Missouri.
Floating the Current River: Located near Two Rivers Backcountry Camping, the Current River offers excellent paddling opportunities. "We had a section of the river to ourselves and it was a large private spot... The water is spring-fed and very clear and beautiful," notes one camper.
Exploring local springs: The area contains some of Missouri's largest springs. "Be sure to visit the nearby springs and sites of the recreational area. The springs are so deep blue and dramatic against the rocky cliffs," recommends a visitor who stayed at Two Rivers.
Hiking wooded trails: Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park offers multiple trail options through diverse terrain. "There is a beautiful bike trail connecting the campground to the rest of the park. They also had neat programs going on while we were there including a smores contest and adult scavenger hunt," shares Charlotte B.
River swimming and wading: The area's rivers provide natural swimming areas. "The shut-ins trail DOES NOT allow dogs so that's a bummer," mentions one Johnson's Shut-Ins visitor, highlighting an important consideration for pet owners planning water activities.
Modern facilities: Echo Bluff State Park receives high marks for its updated amenities. "This place is pretty new and they didn't spare any expense. Lodge and campgrounds were great. Camp host at RV park was awesome and helped us a couple times," says Keaton K.
Access to multiple rivers: Campers appreciate the region's diverse water recreation options. "The float was on clear water and had plenty of gravel bars to enjoy," notes a visitor to Bearcat Getaway, which provides access to the Black River.
Secluded walk-in sites: Many campgrounds offer more private options. "Beautiful site, each walk-in was spread apart from each other. We loved it and cannot wait to go back," shares Elizabeth W. about Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Spotting animals enhances the camping experience. "Was able to see wild horses as well. Water, electric, and even wifi," mentions Sage W. who stayed at Echo Bluff.
Reservation requirements: Popular campgrounds fill quickly. "The only negative is that we have experienced are that you need to reserve your side months in advance because this campground is so popular," warns a camper about Echo Bluff.
Campsite shade variations: Newer campgrounds may lack mature trees. "We, personally, like more of a woodsy feel. This campground felt very sterile. You are not sheltered at all by the forest trees," reports Anita B. about some areas of Echo Bluff.
Weekend noise levels: Some campgrounds host events that create livelier atmospheres. "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! Now I opt for a site as far away from the stage as possible," shares Jennifer G. about Bearcat Getaway.
Varying bathroom quality: Facilities differ between campgrounds. "If the facilities are great it would be five stars. They were not bad, but a little dated and not well set up for camper showers. Clean though," notes a visitor to Harveys Circle B Campground.
Horse-friendly activities: Sam A. Baker State Park offers equestrian options for families. "The park itself offers a lot to explore--quite a few trails to choose from, and the river made for nice wading in the afternoon heat," reports Madelyn H.
Kid-friendly water features: Many campgrounds have safe areas for children to play. "Beautiful view. You can sit in the cool clear water and relax. Great place for kids. Park is well maintained," shares Kevin B. about Sam A. Baker State Park.
Campground programming: Look for parks with organized activities. "They have a nice gift shop and some great places to swim," mentions a regular visitor to Sam A. Baker, highlighting amenities beyond just camping.
Primitive camping introduction: For families wanting to test backcountry skills, Four Creeks Ranch Campground offers a middle ground. "This is also a good place if your new to off grid camping and want to test your gear before you say bye to society," suggests one camper.
Site selection considerations: RVers should be aware of drainage issues when booking. "We stayed in our RV on a spot with river view. Was really nice! Site 148 has standing water when it rains, but that was the only wet spot in the RV areas," advises Laura about Harveys Circle B Campground.
Utilities and hookups: Different campgrounds offer varying levels of service. "This campground has full amenities. Clean bathrooms and showers. Firewood available for purchase and even WiFi," notes a camper who stayed at Echo Bluff State Park.
Access for larger rigs: Some campgrounds accommodate bigger setups better than others. "Great camp sites, elec available no dump and community water only. Black river access on site. Firewood included with site rental," reports Hayden H. about Bearcat Getaway's facilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Bunker, MO?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Bunker, MO is Timbuktu Campground — Echo Bluff State Park with a 4.5-star rating from 41 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Bunker, MO?
TheDyrt.com has all 33 equestrian camping locations near Bunker, MO, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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