Camping cabins near Cape Girardeau, Missouri range from rustic to modern accommodations within state parks, wildlife refuges, and private resorts. Most cabin locations sit at elevations between 400-600 feet above sea level in the rolling hills surrounding the Mississippi River floodplain. Winter temperatures typically drop to 20-30°F while summer stays consistently above 85°F with high humidity levels.
What to do
Fishing access: 3 minutes from cabin: Lake Murphysboro State Park Campground offers direct lake access for anglers staying in cabins. "We had pit toilets, but had to drive elsewhere for showers. I would come back again," notes Lindsay J. about the peaceful setting.
Equestrian trails: 40 minutes away: Giant City State Park Campground provides exceptional horse trails near cabin accommodations. Michael M. reports, "There are currently 25 equestrian camp sites in this park in a different area than the normal RV and Tent campground. The campground is being upgraded this year in which I believe they are adding 50 amp full service to many of the electric only sites."
Nature education programs: Weekends only: Educational programs run near cabin sites at Touch of Nature Education Center. James M. describes the amenities: "Camp Amenities include: lodges, cabins, shelters, parking, fire pits/fireplaces all with wood supplied, amphitheaters, fishing along Little Grassy Lake, trails, swing set."
What campers like
Sandy beaches: Seasonal swimming: Whippoorwill Lake Campground Resort cabins provide access to lake swimming areas. Brasley C. explains, "Lake has sandy beaches. Small playset in the water for kids."
Hiking variety: Multiple difficulty levels: Giant City State Park cabins serve as basecamp for trail systems. Shana D. shares, "The Giant City Nature Trail and Devils Standtable were really pretty, easy strolls. The Trillium Trail is a little more rugged for those who prefer less crowded, slightly tougher trails."
Privacy levels: Site-dependent: Cabin location selection matters for privacy seekers. Sunshine Z. observes about Giant City, "We stayed in the primitive camp site, while there were others there, everyone was dispersed far enough that it felt private. Camp grounds were clean, quiet, and the camp host and park ranger were very kind."
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Winter access: Some cabin areas maintain limited winter availability. Josh M. reports from Giant City, "We stayed here during the winter while visiting my brother who was in college nearby. Even in the winter the sites were quite clear and clean and it provided great access to nearby trails and hiking."
Reservation timing: First-come options: Crab Orchard Lake Crab Orchard NWR operates on different reservation systems. Never Sitting S. advises, "The biggest thing about this campground is first come first serve..and one loop is closed for renovations. Most you can spend here is 14 days, which lots of locals do."
Noise considerations: Location-specific: Highway noise affects some cabin areas. Jamey W. notes about Perryville RV Resort, "The highway is also extremely close and can be heard at all times. All in all it's a nice place. We would definitely stop here if we're ever around. But we wouldn't stay long."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple areas: Family-friendly cabin options include play structures. Perryville RV Resort includes child amenities according to Christopher B.: "It has a pool, playgrounds, a pond, and some tiny home type cabins that look like fun."
Cabin sleeping arrangements: Verify capacity: Perryville RV Resort By Rjourney offers family-sized cabins. Megan T. says, "Such a clean campground!! There are a ton of big trees and it is really shady. We love our time here."
Wildlife viewing: Morning hours: Dawn wildlife viewing opportunities exist near cabin locations. Stephanie B. shared about Lake Murphysboro, "We stayed there for a day or two. Apparently. Our travel page states that. But I don't remember it. There was an armadillo. And deer."
Tips from RVers
Road conditions: Gravel access: Smaller cabin locations have limited road infrastructure. Brasley C. mentions about Whippoorwill Lake, "All roads are gravel. We have stayed in the cabins. It was a double bed and also had a set of bunks. So plenty of room."
Shade considerations: Site selection: The Landing Point RV Park offers shaded cabin options important during summer heat. Gary P. describes, "Sites are reasonably spaced, many with large trees. Not real far off 55. Would stay here again for a night over and even an extra night."
Town proximity: Shopping access: Some cabin locations provide easy town access for supplies. Glenn C. notes about Perryville, "Close to home. Extra clean. Friendly staff. Lots of trees. Drive Through. Easy access off the interstate. Town close by, and a Walmart."
