Camping spots near Cabool, Missouri range from primitive sites to fully-developed campgrounds scattered throughout the rugged Ozark terrain. The region sits at elevations between 1,200-1,500 feet with humid continental climate patterns that create distinct seasonal camping experiences. Summer temperatures frequently exceed 90°F with high humidity, while winter nights often drop below freezing, significantly affecting campground operations and water access.
What to do
Trout fishing access: At Montauk State Park Campground, anglers need a $3 trout tag in addition to a Missouri fishing license. "You can purchase a trout tag at the lodge for $3.00, and it will allow you to keep 4 trout per day with a possession limit of 8. The conservation will stock the Current on a nightly basis, based on number of tags sold the day before," explains Kyle H.
Historic sites: The Laura Ingalls Wilder RV Park provides convenient access to literary history. "This campground is directly across the street from Laura Ingalls Wilder's home," notes Timothy F., making it an educational stop for literature enthusiasts camping near Cabool.
Spring exploration: Blue Spring Backcountry Camping offers views of one of Missouri's clearest springs. "Blue Spring is beautiful and cold! This is a primitive camping area... There are so many areas to visit around the river this would be an excellent base camp or you could use it as a stop off on a float trip," recommends Shelly S.
What campers like
Mill viewing: The historic mill at Alley Spring Campground draws campers for its photographic opportunities. "The old mill, the spring, the caves, wild horses need I say more," writes Curtis M. Another camper mentioned, "Very short drive to get to the spring & mill. Wouldn't call it a 'hike' but a very nice path to take a stroll on a loop at the mill."
On-site dining: Montauk State Park Campground offers restaurant options for campers who don't want to cook. "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 can even order a sack lunch to take out to the river bank," writes Kyle H.
River access: Twin Bridges Canoe Campground provides direct water access for paddlers. "We loved the fact we could float right up to our campsite! We rented a double kayak for only $44 floating from Hebron down to Twin Bridges. It was a nice flow and on our way down the river, we were able to access our campsite right off the water to drop off supplies before returning our kayak," shares Ashley W.
What you should know
Campground closures: Several dispersed camping areas near Cabool have changed their overnight policies. At Noblett Lake Dispersed Camping, Jen reports, "We did find this small road with a loop at the end that have pull-in campsites. They're nothing special, some of them are overgrown. Mostly all of them don't have any kind of fire ring... If you go down the road to what used to actually be the Noblett Lake campground (it is now a picnic area, no overnight camping allowed)."
Flooding risks: Campgrounds in river valleys face periodic evacuation. At Alley Spring Campground, one reviewer warns, "The campground is located on the flood plane, heavy rain may cause flooding and evacuation!"
Reservation requirements: Popular camping spots near Cabool require advance planning. For Montauk State Park, Kyle H. advises, "Sites do go quickly so you will need to book months in advance."
Primitive conditions: Many dispersed sites lack facilities. At Blue Spring Backcountry Camping, campers note, "No amenities, many generators. Drive in, pick a spot and set up camp."
Tips for camping with families
Educational programs: Ozarks Mountain Springs RV Park offers community activities for families. "We needed a tent site for one night and we ended up getting a whole grove of trees to ourselves! It was a Saturday night and there was an open mic night and bbq. The atmosphere was light and fun and the people rocked!" reports Bill J.
Kid-friendly amenities: Montauk State Park provides organized activities for children. "There were a lot of activities aimed at kids. Great mix of modern campground and nature experience," notes Dan N.
Wildlife viewing: Twin Bridges Canoe Campground offers animal spotting opportunities along river routes. "Great wildlife along the way including cranes, turtles, ducks, fish," mentions Kira S.
Playground access: Laura Ingalls Wilder RV Park has dedicated play areas. "Beautiful yard, walking trails and playground with resident kitty," shares Holly M.
Tips from RVers
Terraced sites: Laura Ingalls Wilder RV Park's layout accommodates RVs on uneven terrain. "This camp is on a hillside that is terraced at each site. Nice & quiet for the most part. There are several permanent residences here," notes Sheri K.
Hookup access: Montauk State Park provides multiple electrical options. "Full RV options. You can also rent modern hotel suite-style cabins and eat in the dining hall so you don't have to cook," explains Dan N.
Site privacy: Campgrounds offer varying levels of seclusion for RVs. At Laura Ingalls Wilder RV Park, "Good spaces between campers on the pull throughs," according to Kyle R.
Road conditions: Some RV parks have challenging access. At Ozarks Mountain Springs RV Park, "Site was fairly level. Definitely a wooded setting. Could tell work was being done to clear away brush and debris," reports Mary D.
