Cabin camping near Cadet, Missouri centers around the rolling hills of the eastern Ozarks, where elevations range from 750 to 1,400 feet. Most cabin facilities in this region remain open year-round, with winter temperatures averaging 30-40°F and summer temperatures reaching 85-95°F. The area features limestone and dolomite geology that creates the numerous caves and springs found throughout the region.
What to do
Explore prehistoric petroglyphs: Washington State Park Campground maintains Native American rock carvings accessible via short trails. "Washington State Park is a hidden gem in Missouri! We camped in mid-March 2021 for 7 days and thoroughly enjoyed the area. The prehistoric Petroglyphs nearby are a must see," notes Phil W.
Kayak the Big River: Several cabin locations offer equipment rentals for water activities with half-day and full-day options. "My husband and i kayaked here and it was amazing! Probably the best short trip you could take on a kayak," reports Allyson D. about Washington State Park Campground.
Navigate off-road trails: St. Joe State Park Campground maintains a designated off-road vehicle area spanning several hundred acres. "Good place to ride your off road vehicles. Lots of trails and plenty of different types of trails to try out," explains J T.
Explore cave systems: The region features several accessible cave systems with guided tours. "If you are use to hiking, then this trail should not be any problem for you," explains Scott M. about reaching cave areas in Washington State Park.
What campers like
Secluded tent platforms: Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park provides raised platforms for tent camping in more private areas. "The walkin sites are on platforms and are spaced for privacy. The setting at this state park is the draw," explains Chad K.
River access: Most cabin facilities offer direct water access for swimming and wading during warmer months. "Nice access to river. Stayed on the family side and had a great time. Staff super helpful and upbeat, everyone looked like they wanted to ACTUALLY be there," writes Matt about Ozark Outdoors-Riverfront Resort.
Fall foliage viewing: Several parks feature exceptional fall color displays throughout October and early November. "Surrounded by trees changing colors the fall is beautiful here. The campground has several hiking trails and also river access to go canoeing," describes Lindsey R.
Wildlife observation opportunities: Multiple cabin areas maintain wildlife habitats where visitors can observe native species. "We saw deer and my husband talked back and forth with an owl in the woods. We chose an electric site towards the back to avoid most people," shares Jennifer G.
What you should know
Shower house operations: Pay showers cost $0.50 for approximately 5 minutes at some locations. "Bathhouse is close by maybe a 100 yard walk. Pretty clean and maintained. $0.50 cents for 5 min on showers," explains Rick K. about Bass' River Resort.
Site selection strategy: Reserve sites away from main roads for quieter stays. "Loved the campground! However, lesson learned to reserve a campsite further from the road," advises David T.
Cell service limitations: Some cabin areas have limited or no cellular connectivity. "The cell phone service is virtually non-existent. We had planned to work from here and had to cut our visit short," warns Mats about Meramec State Park.
Weekend crowds: Popular cabin locations experience heavy use during summer weekends. "We stayed in mid-March 2021 for 7 days and thoroughly enjoyed the area. They had just opened a new shower house which was clean and well kept," notes Phil W.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming beaches: Meramec Caverns Natural Campground offers designated swimming areas with gradually sloping entries. "Good swimming! Clear water. Camp store. Firewood available," notes Sherry P.
Buddy sites for group camping: Some cabin areas feature connected sites ideal for multiple families. "We enjoyed the buddy sites so that our front doors faced our friends and the hookups were on the outside of each campsite," explains Joy F.
Educational programs: Ranger-led activities occur regularly at state parks during summer months. "They also had neat programs going on while we were there including a smores contest and adult scavenger hunt," shares Charlotte B.
Children's fishing opportunities: Several locations stock fishing ponds specifically for younger anglers. "We stayed with our Cub Scout Pack. There was plenty of room for all of our tents and portable canopies," reports Scott M.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: Twin Eagle Lake Estates & Hideout provides gravel pads that require minimal leveling. "The campsites are spacious and level. They have cabins for rent too and pavilion and amphitheater," notes Bill L.
Power connection reliability: Most cabin areas offer stable electrical service with updated connections. "Easy plug n play electric on a 30 amp box, no issues with blowing fuses like I have at other big state parks," shares David T.
Delivery services: Some campgrounds provide on-site food delivery to campsites. "In the summer they have a restaurant with campsite delivery and sometimes live music," explains Jennifer G.
Accessibility information: Several locations offer paved pathways connecting cabins to facilities. "There is even a nice 11 mile long paved trail that has some hills but will work for kids/strollers/etc," shares Grant M.