Cabin accommodations near Columbia, Missouri range from basic to full-service options within a 45-mile radius. Most cabin sites require reservations, particularly during summer months when temperatures typically reach 85-95°F. Winter cabin camping is available at select locations with overnight temperatures often dropping below freezing from December through February. Cabins provide shelter from the area's significant rainfall, which averages 43 inches annually.
What to do
Fishing access: Cedar Creek Resort & RV Park offers multiple fishing ponds with complimentary equipment. "We stayed at Camp Takimina on our first shakedown trip with our Popup camper. It was amazing. It was about 5-10 minutes from I-70, super easy to get to. The camp was quiet, private, and peaceful," notes Kari W.
Boating options: Mark Twain State Park provides boat ramps with ample parking for watercraft. According to Josh S., "Park has a boat ramp with ample parking and if you have better luck than I did a fish cleaning station. While having a boat ramp close may be a deterrent it was rare to have much boat noise with the tall trees surrounding these large private sites."
Trail access: Turner Katy Trail Shelter serves as a dedicated hostel for hikers and bikers using the Katy Trail. Joyce R. explains, "The Katy Trail Turner Shelter Hostel is located in Tebbetts, Missouri at mile 131.2. The shelter is two stories with 40 bunk style beds. Guests must bring their own bedding. There are showers, restrooms and a kitchen with a refrigerator and microwave."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Puma Campground at Mark Twain State Park offers well-spaced cabin sites. Nathan P. notes, "Like the forest feel of the sites, with found coverage between the sites, giving a nice sense of privacy."
Air conditioning availability: Cabins at Puma Campground include cooling systems for summer comfort. Kris C. shares, "The cabin is simple and clean. It has air conditioning, which is needed in Missouri in August (it was sooo hot). Cabin is private with fire pit and picnic table at the front which faces near the woods."
Proximity to water: Cedar Creek Resort & RV Park features waterfront cabin options. Kathy F. observes, "Oh my as we drove in this place was amazing. There were fishing ponds a retreat center and cabins. Hiking trails. Rv park w laundry. Over 160 acres of land to explore on!!!"
What you should know
Bathroom access varies: Some cabins require walks to restroom facilities. Stacy D. from Puma Campground says, "The restrooms and showers are very clean and well maintained. We met both hosts and they were friendly and accommodating."
Provisions planning: Most cabin locations require bringing your own supplies. Josh S. notes, "The closest store for provisions is about 15 miles away, but ice and firewood is available on site from both hosts."
Reservation requirements: Camp Takimina and other cabin facilities need advance booking. "We reserved Arrow Hill also, which is a huge site right next to the parking lot, so we had a campfire ring to cook on. Most of the firepits have benches that surround them, which was very handy not to have to move chairs around all the time," reports Kari W.
Tips for camping with families
Multiple accommodation options: Cedar Creek Resort offers various cabin sizes for different family needs. Jason R. shares, "We just took 40+ family members and everyone fell in love with this campground. We had family from Idaho, Colorado, Wyoming, Iowa, Illinois, and Missouri, and everyone raved how this was their new favorite spot."
Swimming areas: Mark Twain State Park includes water access points suitable for children. Abbey S. comments, "Met up for a family reunion at Mark Twain, adults loved the boat accesses and the kids loved the swimming! Something for everyone!"
Activity planning: Hickory Ridge Campground organizes family-friendly events. Mindy D. reports, "Lots of activities - pool, cornhole tournament, potluck dinner, and movie night. Great place for families. New owners are clearly making improvements and working hard to create a unique place."
Tips from RVers
Overnight stays: Hickory Ridge Campground offers convenient access from major highways. Julie G. mentions, "We stayed only one night here while passing through. Campground's new owner is very kind and friendly. He escorted us to our site which was tucked away under some nice trees. Though campground is close to interstate, noise was minimal (I think because of the trees)."
Level assessment: Check site conditions before setting up at Mark Twain State Park. Cathy S. advises, "I found the site 98 in the Puma area quite nice with a little more grassy area. There were a few sites with semi view of the water. I recommend 77 and 82."
Seasonal considerations: Cedar Creek Resort accommodates year-round cabin stays. Beth R. notes, "Good for an overnight stay. Came in late, called number & lady gave us instructions to find site. Beautiful campground."
