R
Randall B.
Scout
ScoutRedman Creek Campground
Very Clean
$24 a night with no discount. We received half off with our access pass card. Clean private showers. Very quiet!
Best Campgrounds near Patterson, MO
The southeastern Missouri Ozarks surrounding Patterson feature diverse camping opportunities within the Mark Twain National Forest and state park system. Sam A. Baker State Park Campground serves as the primary established camping area in Patterson proper, offering year-round access with tent sites, RV hookups, cabins, and glamping options. Within a 30-mile radius, campers can access Lake Wappapello's Greenville Recreation Area, Marble Creek Recreation Area, and several other developed campgrounds. The region's camping landscape ranges from fully-equipped sites with electric hookups and modern facilities to primitive dispersed camping at locations like 34 Bridge Recreation Area, where free camping is available with minimal amenities.
Seasonal considerations significantly impact camping experiences in the Patterson area. From April through September, Missouri's high humidity makes electric hookups valuable for comfort, as one camper noted: "From April to September, you're gonna want electric so you can run AC or at least a fan, Missouri humidity is not a joke." Most campgrounds in the region maintain reliable cell service, though coverage becomes spotty in more remote areas. Road conditions vary considerably, with some recreation areas requiring navigation on winding gravel roads typical of the Ozarks. Reservations are strongly recommended during summer months and weekends, particularly for sites near water features, which fill quickly during peak season.
Water access represents a defining feature of camping in the Patterson region. The St. Francis River, Black River, and numerous creeks provide opportunities for fishing, swimming, and paddling directly from many campsites. Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park, approximately 25 miles northwest, offers what visitors describe as "crystal clear and cool" water flowing through unique rock formations. Campers frequently mention the spaciousness between sites as a positive attribute, with one reviewer noting that at Marble Creek Recreation Area, "None are on top of each other so there is a nice bit of space between you and your neighbor which provides some privacy." Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, with deer, raccoons, and numerous bird species commonly spotted throughout the camping areas.
Best Camping Sites Near Patterson, Missouri (142)
1. Sam A. Baker State Park Campground
48 ReviewsPatterson, MO4 milesWebsite+1 (573) 856-4411$15 - $52 / night
"State Park in Southeast Missouri along Big Creek. Well maintained campsites with electric hook ups. Water and dump stations, but no water hook up sites."
"Shower houses were conveniently located in camping area. Big River was just a small walk away from the campsite. I know they had been flooded, but I am still cleaning rocks and dirt from the camper."
2. Greenville - Lake Wappapello
9 ReviewsGreenville, MO8 milesWebsite+1 (573) 224-3884$16 - $50 / night
"Power and water both worked very well and the dump station had easy access. 3 playground areas and a neat old civil war cemetery are located in the camping area."
"The town is close by if you need anything from Dollar General and there is a nice little walk up food joint across from it."
3. Huzzah Valley
11 ReviewsPatterson, MO11 milesWebsite$11 - $65 / night
"The "Zoo" is for the younger and rowdier crowd, and is located north of HWY 8, away from the family-friendly sites, and has later quiet hours and is known for its party-like atmosphere. "
"Full hook up, shade and near river. Plenty of room on the gravel bar to have fun. We floated. They picked us up and dropped us off at our camp sites since we had a large group."
4. Holliday Landing Campground & Marina
7 ReviewsGreenville, MO13 milesWebsite+1 (573) 224-3430$30 - $35 / night
"He had a bonfire waiting for us right outside our cabin! The cabin was great! Anything we needed was supplied. And the birds nesting across the lake were an added bonus!"
"The Holliday Landing is your fishing paradise, crappie & catfish everywhere on this side of the lake. "
5. Piedmont Park
6 ReviewsPiedmont, MO13 milesWebsite+1 (573) 223-7777$14 - $50 / night
"We stayed right next to the beach in site A15. Spot was lacking shade but made up for it with the view."
"Very easy to drive to and plenty of parking! Definitely recommend and would stay here again!"
6. Otahki Lake Cabins and Campground
3 ReviewsPatterson, MO6 milesWebsite+1 (855) 568-2454$48 - $295 / night
"We have everything from glamping tents right on the river bluff (photos attached) to 12 fully equipped cabins with hot tubs overlooking the 22 acre lake with a beach and activities (photos attached) We"
"The lake and St. Francis river are crystal clear. Watched the baby deer, and listen to thw owls at night. "
7. Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park Campground
56 ReviewsBlack, MO31 milesWebsite+1 (573) 546-2450$15 - $80 / night
"It is located on the Black River, and the water flowing through the shut-ins is crystal clear and cool."
"Johnson Shut-Ins State Park is located on the Black River in Missouri, just south of St. Louis. This makes it a popular location on hot summer days, especially weekends."
8. River Road Park
4 ReviewsPiedmont, MO12 milesWebsite+1 (573) 223-7777$14 - $110 / night
"This campground is located at the southern side of Clearwater lake on the Black River. We were in spot R1 which apparently stands for remote. Electric was available and water was within 50 ft or so."
"A friendly atmosphere with quick, over the hill, access to Clearwater Lake too. Shaded lots are plenty but get snatched up. Reservations (4 days in advance) and first come for available spots."
9. Marble Creek Rec Area
10 ReviewsArcadia, MO18 milesWebsite+1 (573) 438-5427$10 - $20 / night
"There is hiking, it is in a National Forest that allows Dispersed Camping outside designated areas and off roads."
"Site # 20 had a perfect path to the water, and a reasonable creek walk up to a swimming hole."
10. 34 Bridge Recreation Area
1 ReviewPatterson, MO3 miles
Recent Camping Photos near Patterson, MO
190 Photos of 142 Patterson Campgrounds
Josh S.
Sam A. Baker State Park Campground
Elijah E.
Otahki Lake Cabins and Campground
Donnie D.
Greenville - Lake Wappapello
Bonnie M.
Wanderers End Sanctuary Forest Farm
Lindsey C.
Huzzah Valley
Robin
River Road Park
Jon L.
Piedmont Park
Rich F.
Holliday Landing Campground & Marina
J K.
Highway K
Marija E.
Marble Creek Rec Area
Chad H.
Castor River Campground
Hayden H.
Bearcat Getaway
Recent Reviews near Patterson, MO
620 Reviews of 142 Patterson Campgrounds
Makayla C.
GuideSt. Joe State Park Campground
Loud
I know a large majority of the park is meant for ORV’s but there was just constant noise even in the campground. Besides that it was great though!
Ricky R.GuideRedman Creek Campground
Full hookup Corps of Engineers Campground
Updated campground with paved pads, full hookups and 50 amps. Has nice shower building. Most sites are level and can accommodate larger rigs. Some sites are close to state highway and with traffic noise.
Heidi H.GuideCouncil Bluff Recreation Area
Nice and Private
Stayed for a night and I think there were only like 4 campsites filled in the whole campground? Pit toilets in pretty bad shape but did we expect any different😂 loved our visit, went down to the lake to swim and found a walking trail by the water just down from our campsite. Bugs were bad but that’s to be expected, can’t really get away from it in Missouri in June.
- ddrew
TravelerBismark Lake Conservation Area
Quiet simple place to camp
Peacefull night of sleep near Shepherd Mountain.
- CChris W.Scout
Redman Creek Recreation Area
004
Nice area with plenty to do.
- RRalph S.Guide
Lake Girardeau Campground
Clean and free
Stayed here in September. Had the campground to myself. It's run by Missouri Dept. of Conservation so there's no charge. Each site has concrete picnic tables, grill and lantern hook.
- mmaureen L.Traveler
Alley Spring Campground — Ozark National Scenic Riverway
Beautiful !
Must visit! Campgrounds are right by the Alley Spings Mill that is so beautiful! Sites are well kept and easy to get into.
Overland 1.GuidePiedmont Park
Beautiful Place
This is a beautiful campground. It is an older campground but very well maintained and very clean. The view from my camp is spectacular. I have electric, water, a covered picnic table, a fire ring and all for $8/night with my pass discount. Only negative thing I can say is the long hike to the bathrooms, but not really all that bad. Wonderful campground, will stay here again
Guide to Patterson
Camping sites near Patterson, Missouri offer diverse terrain for primitive and established options within Mark Twain National Forest. Summer temperatures typically range from 75°F to 90°F with rainfall averaging 4.3 inches monthly June through August. River-based recreation forms the core of most camping experiences, with water clarity and swimming conditions varying by location.
What to do
Water sports at Lake Wappapello: Greenville Recreation Area provides lake access for boating, swimming and fishing. "The town is close by if you need anything from Dollar General and there is a nice little walk up food joint across from it," notes Donnie D., highlighting convenient supply options.
Civil War history exploration: Campers at Greenville - Lake Wappapello can examine historical markers and foundations. "The campground is actually located in the area of Old Greenville. The city was moved when the Corps of Engineers built Wappapello Dam and this area was flooded. There are still old foundations of the court house and various homes," explains Jan D.
Wildlife viewing at dawn and dusk: Marble Creek Rec Area offers peaceful animal watching. "Sunrise is stunning over the water as well as sunset," reports Francis B. The area provides opportunities to spot wild turkey, deer, and various bird species in their natural habitat.
What campers like
Private camping spots: Marble Creek Rec Area receives praise for site spacing. "None are on top of each other so there is a nice bit of space between you and your neighbor which provides some privacy," notes Shannon B., adding that the campground features "low noise, low traffic and you can always find a spot open."
Creek access for cooling off: Campsites with water proximity offer relief during hot summer days. "The campsites were clean, the waterways were clean, and no one bothered us," reports Marija E. about Marble Creek during off-season visits.
Crystal clear waters: Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park offers unique water features beyond swimming. "Beautiful camp sites and a beautiful river to paddle around on. This park usually isn't very crowded which is really nice. It is very tranquil and perfect for a weekend get away," describes Charlotte B.
What you should know
Cell service varies widely: Reception can be unpredictable depending on your location and carrier. "Cell service was adequate but not great," reports Doug W. at Greenville Recreation Area, while other reviewers note that remote areas can have very limited connectivity.
Weather impacts site conditions: Heavy rainfall affects accessibility at some primitive sites. "Road can be a little rough in spots after it rains. 1/2 bars with Verizon. Limited spots to set up tent," reports Alexis M. about 34 Bridge Recreation Area.
Bathroom facilities vary significantly: Some campgrounds offer modern facilities while others provide only vault toilets. At River Road Park, "Showers, bathrooms, electric and water hookup, dump station" are available according to Joe A., while more remote sites offer minimal amenities.
Tips for camping with families
Look for river-friendly campsites: Locations with gradual water entry work best for children. "You can sit in the cool clear water and relax. Great place for kids. Park is well maintained," advises Kevin B. about Sam A. Baker State Park Campground.
Consider campgrounds with playground access: Several sites feature play equipment for children. "3 playground areas and a neat old civil war cemetery are located in the camping area. It is a part of the trail of tears and there are lots of historical things to look at," mentions Kimberly P. at Greenville Recreation Area.
Bring extra water for primitive sites: Some locations lack potable water access. "No fresh water on site, we had to drive into town on Saturday to buy a few gallons," cautions Mara F. about Marble Creek Recreation Area.
Tips from RVers
Book concrete pad sites during rainy seasons: River Road Park offers firm, level surfaces for campers concerned about muddy conditions. "River Road is a quiet, safe little campground with amenities, fishing, boating, kayaking, easily accessible," notes Joe A.
Check site length requirements carefully: Some campgrounds have limited options for larger rigs. "The sites are large and have a big concrete pad attached to the drive," reports Ginny B. about Greenville Recreation Area, which accommodates larger RVs better than many forest service campgrounds in the region.
Plan for power needs: Summer heat may require air conditioning. "All sites are nice & level with asphalt drives & concrete pads or patio area. Large patio area about 10 x 30' with fire pit & lantern pole. Great ATT & good Verizon," notes Gary P. about the hookup options at Greenville Recreation Area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Patterson Campground located?
Where is Patterson Campground located?
While specific information about Patterson Campground is limited in the reviews, the area features several excellent camping options. Marble Creek Rec Area is located in southeastern Missouri in the Mark Twain National Forest, offering a beautiful setting shaped by Marble Creek. Another nearby option is Fourche Lake Rec Area, which can be accessed from Thayer, Missouri by traveling east on MO 142, then turning onto MO V and following signs to the right.
Do I need reservations for Patterson Campground?
Do I need reservations for Patterson Campground?
Reservation policies vary by campground in the region. At Asher Creek Campground — Lake Wappapello State Park, reservations are accepted and recommended, especially during peak times. On weeknights or during off-season, you may find spots available without advance booking. Round Spring Campground — Ozark National Scenic Riverway operates on a first-come, first-served basis for individual sites, while offering reservable group sites. For the most reliable camping experience, making reservations when available is recommended.
What amenities are available at Patterson Campground?
What amenities are available at Patterson Campground?
Based on similar campgrounds in the region, you can expect basic amenities. Timbuktu Campground — Echo Bluff State Park offers full hookup RV sites with 30/50 amp electric, water, and sewer on perfectly level concrete pads. Sites include picnic tables and fire rings. For a more rustic experience, Taum Sauk Mountain State Park Campground provides basic tent sites with picnic tables and fire rings, though without water or electrical hookups at individual sites.
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