Cabins near Cabool, Missouri range from rustic riverside accommodations to fully-equipped lodging within state parks. The region sits at approximately 1,250 feet elevation in the Ozark Highlands, with forests dominated by oak, hickory, and shortleaf pine. Summer temperatures average 75-90°F, while winters typically see lows between 20-35°F with occasional snow.
What to do
Fishing at Montauk State Park: Purchase a $3 trout tag at the lodge to keep up to 4 trout per day. The stretch of river from spring to the falls offers excellent fishing. "There is some hiking but everyone was fishing, canoeing, or swimming. Good big state park campground," notes one visitor to Montauk State Park Campground.
Outdoor activities beyond fishing: Take a quarter-mile trail hike to the springs or try the longer 1.5-mile Pine Ridge Trail. "If you decide not to fish, there are things to do such as take a tour of the mill when the naturalist does one of their demonstrations, hike the quarter mile trial to the springs, or feed the fish at the hatchery," reports a camper.
Historical exploration: Visit the Laura Ingalls Wilder Museum directly across from Laura Ingalls Wilder RV Park. "Convenient location across from Laura Ingalls Wilder Museum and home," mentions a visitor. The park provides a convenient base for exploring this historical site.
What campers like
River access: Many campgrounds offer direct water access. At Froggys River Resort, campers appreciate the riverside location. "I stayed in the tent camping area. The host was very helpful with everything. I was right next to the river, and the sounds of the water made everything tranquil," one camper explains.
Campfire amenities: Firewood is available for purchase at most locations, with some campgrounds providing delivery service. "Firewood brought to your campsite upon request. Shower house. Open spaces," notes a Froggys River Resort visitor.
Dining options: Several campgrounds feature on-site food service. "The lodge has a full restaurant, as well as a diner style counter. My son love's to go and sit at the counter to get ice cream. You will find menu item such as burgers, sandwiches, and salads, as well as a buffet on certain days," reports a Montauk State Park visitor.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Many popular cabin sites require advance planning. For Echo Bluff State Park, one camper advises: "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."
Seasonal considerations: Spring and fall offer prime fishing conditions while summer provides better swimming opportunities. Cabins offer varied amenities by season - some campgrounds reduce services in off-seasons. "Early season, limited services. Tent camped here with a group of private boat paddlers from all over the country. Campground operations had not really started for the season," notes a visitor to Twin Bridges.
Water levels: River conditions fluctuate seasonally, affecting activities. "Depending on the time of year, the river can be quite low, so be sure to check the forecast before planning a stay," advises a camper.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Timbuktu Campground — Echo Bluff State Park offers programming specifically for children. "We didn't take advantage of it, but there were a lot of activities aimed at kids. Great mix of modern campground and nature experience," explains a visitor.
Swimming options: For families with young children, select locations with safe swimming areas. "Also if you head out of the park on YY you will find Tan Vat Access located right outside the park on the Current. This is a great place to take young ones for a dip in its cool waters," recommends a Montauk State Park camper.
Educational opportunities: Combine outdoor activities with learning experiences. "The mill, spring trails, and hatchery provide opportunities for children to learn about local history and ecology," notes a visitor to Montauk. Naturalist demonstrations occur regularly during peak season.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Harveys Circle B Campground, riverfront sites are popular but fill quickly. "We stayed in a campsite on the river. The campsites are a little close together but no one was at the one next to us so it did not feel so bad," notes one RVer.
Leveling considerations: Many Ozark campgrounds have terrain challenges. "Site was fairly level. Definitely a wooded setting. Could tell work was being done to clear away brush and debris," reports a visitor to Ozarks Mountain Springs RV Park.
Hookup availability: Full hookups are available at several campgrounds, though quality varies. "Great pull through site. Good spaces between campers on the pull throughs. Clean and quiet," notes a camper at Laura Ingalls Wilder RV Park.
