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St. Francois State Park Campground is one of the few camping options near De Soto that offers equestrian access, though it lacks dedicated horse corrals. The park features several miles of equestrian-friendly trails within its 2,735 acres, allowing riders to explore the rolling hills and forested terrain. The campground provides basic amenities including picnic tables, fire rings, and access to both electric and primitive campsites. Campers frequently note the well-maintained trails that connect directly to the camping areas. The park can accommodate horse trailers in its spacious parking areas, though advance arrangements are recommended during peak seasons when the campground fills quickly, especially on weekends.
The trail system at St. Francois connects to the Big River, offering scenic riding routes through diverse Missouri landscapes. Riders have access to multiple trail loops of varying difficulty, with the Pike Run Trail being particularly popular for equestrians. Water access for horses is available at several points along the river. While the campground doesn't offer specialized equine facilities like dedicated stalls or wash racks, the reasonable site spacing and natural terrain make it suitable for responsible horse camping. Trail conditions remain favorable throughout most of the year, though spring visits often provide the best experience with wildflowers blooming along the trails. The campground's shower facilities and clean restrooms provide comfortable accommodations after a day of riding, though equestrians should bring all necessary horse supplies as no feed or tack services are available on-site.
"Not a huge campground but, Its a really simple beautiful place to enjoy Missouri's rolling hills. It is located 1 hour from St. Louis and 30 ish min from Elephant Rock State park."
"My site was close to the camp host and the shower house. Shower house was nice with 4 separate showers with locking doors. Water pressure was great and they were clean."
from $15 - $27 / night
Check Availability"Our site was gravel to park on with grass around it. Close to train tracks and highway, but didn’t notice with AC on in the camper. Close to 6 flags."
"This campground is fairly close to downtown and very close to lots of shopping. A great place to stay to stock up on supplies before heading west."
"So, as one of Missouri’s atv parks, this can be a load one. But, you can camp at campground 2, and you’re dealing with a MUCH more classic camping scenario."
"A great spot with a minute walk to a very well kept shower house and bathroom. We really liked this spot at CG#1."
from $15 - $52 / night
Check Availability"We love the beautiful lake, the swimming area is big and has a nice patio for access. You can rent a cart to go running around the huge campground. Very friendly staff."
from $25 - $36 / night
Check Availability"pros- activities for kids/fam nice pool tons of trees easy access from highway close amenities (Walmart, six flags, etc) close to StL (tons to do) we did grants farm and city museum one day"
"We spent a weekend here because we wanted to be close to six flags. I swear this place was more fun!!!"
"There is no equestrian camping and the parking for horse trailers is super small. There’s a neat 7 mile loop goes by old stable as well."
"Babler State Park Wildwood, MO
💰 $12-$21/night
🗓 Feb 19-21, 2022
Site 48 ⚡️💧
🦮 Pets Welcome (on leash at all times)
➕Concrete Pads, Quiet, Close to Interstate 40, Paved Roads, Easy to Access"
from $15 - $35 / night
Check Availability"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."
"It is located on the Black River, and the water flowing through the shut-ins is crystal clear and cool."
from $15 - $80 / night
Check Availability"It's remote and off the beaten path. A small campground with only 8 spots, some big enough for RVs. No hook ups or water. Pack it in and pack it out. Each site had enough space from each other."
"Pavillion, parking and horse tie out area adjacent trailhead. Excellent place to bring the kids if you want to unplug them from the media world. Trails and bugs and things that go bump in the night."
"Heavy equestrian park, it’s not required (to have a horse) to stay here. A few piles of horses droppings but very well maintained."
"Pretty nice wooded campground close to St. Louis! Each site has a picnic bench, a fire pit and grill."
"Positives: quiet time starting at 11:00 pm, we didn’t hear cursing, loud music, or anything else that disturbs little ones once they go to sleep, close to the river, clean restroom and shower house, shaded"
"They have a family section if you prefer to be away from the louder bunch."
RangerNice park with a large camp sites with premiere off-road vehicle area. The park also features four lakes, two swimming beaches, equestrian trails, a hiking and bicycling trail and picnic sites, as well as two campgrounds capable of accommodating campers with ORV or horse trailers.
LegendThis campground was packed, but it started off on the wrong foot. The entrance comes up quick and is right off a state highway with traffic moving between 65-80 mph so of course I passed the entrance and had to double back.
When I pulled into the park there was bunch of construction. There were a few trails but honestly it really seemed like an RV park with very few tents. The showers and bathrooms were clean but there were too many people, it was very crowded.
I should add as a positive that here were equestrian trails and a large parking lot to park your horse trailer.
St. Francois State Park is close to St. Louis so it is probably a popular destination, it just didn't feel like camping. I'm sure it will improve a little when the construction is completed, but I doubt it will be above three stars.
LegendCampground Review: This is a nice little hidden gem outside St Louis in a great county park. If you are a Six Flags kinda person, the amusement park sits at the southern entrance to Greensfelder. The park itself has some great hiking and biking trails, but the big draw is equestrian in nature (including eventing jumps along some of the trails). This campground caters to the horse-set, with more campsites attached to the equestrian park than not, which means you should make reservations in advance as it is a busy little campground. The equestrian camping area has a standing stall type open barn, a round pen for turn out, and large campsites designed for horse trailers. All of the sites with electric are meant for horse trailers as there are no amenities for RV's. The showers and toilets are in the horse camping portion of the campground. The non-horse camping area seemed to be an afterthought, and is along side a park artery leading to a boarding barn and more trails. I did like that there were two trail heads on opposite sides of the camping lot, and the trails were well marked. Expect this campground area to be busy as it is the staging area for equestrians who use the park.
Product Review: In July I won some gear from Primus for reviewing some campgrounds I visited earlier this summer. This was the first opportunity I had to try out my Primus Profile Camp Stove. This is a nice car camping stove; at eleven pounds, it isn't something to carry far. Things I liked about it include the wind guards, the latching lid, and the fairly thin profile when collapsed. For a two burner stove, it really didn't take up much room in my trunk and it is sturdy enough that I wasn't worried about piling gear on top of it. However, while new out of the box, the igniter didn't work. Glad I always pack a lighter. It's not going to boil water in record time, but certainly held a steady flame and was easy to adjust. I have other stoves, but this one seems like it will be my go to when car camping with friends as I can cook more on two burners than one. https://primus.us/collections/camping-stoves
RangerSo, as one of Missouri’s atv parks, this can be a load one. But, you can camp at campground 2, and you’re dealing with a MUCH more classic camping scenario. The park is big enough you don’t hear the small engine vehicles over here.
The campground 2 sites are set up for horses, something I know almost nothing about, but they make the sites larger to accommodate equestrian needs and that’s nice. Hiking, MTB, and horse trails are separate from the atv trails. There’s even a nice 11 mile long paved trail that has some hills but will work for kids/strollers/etc.
There are a number of more interesting parks in the area for what I think of as a true camping experience, but this is a good one if you’re also on the pokemon plan (gotta camp ‘em all). If you like atv/utv/dirt bike stuff, man, campground one is for you, and it looks like a blast, read up on the lead mine tailing warnings.
GuideThere is no equestrian camping and the parking for horse trailers is super small. There’s a neat 7 mile loop goes by old stable as well.
ScoutEnjoyed my stay and hikes on the equestrian trails. At the time no horses were around, only other tent campers, one of which gave me their extra camp wood.
Hazel creek is a picturesque crystal clear creek that is near the campground, featuring tons of wildlife and peaceful views.
The campsites are flat and clean gravel fill or dirt, the grass is usually tamed, each with a campfire ring with a grill and a picnic table and lantern pole. Densely wooded, full shade.
The access road was rough but my wife’s tiny compact car didn’t have any trouble, but I’m sure it’s a mess when wet.
GuideSmall campground ground ram by saint louis county parks. We were the only ones here. Heavy equestrian park, it’s not required (to have a horse) to stay here. A few piles of horses droppings but very well maintained. We stay about 30 feet to the right of the horse pin, and behind it where they dump the horse stuff really can’t smell anything. Only sites 20-29 have electric and 28 can’t be reserved. Pro -Most sites are great for trailers 26’ or less and 1 slide (sites 24-26 can fit a fifth wheel probably no bigger than 36-38 ft) -2-20 amp plugs and 1-30amp plug -Not to many trees hanging over your camper that would drop branches -site 29 where we stayed can fit a 40’ fifth wheel -a lot of room to back in -showers and restrooms year around -frost free water at both ends of the campground -usual fire pit, picnic table and grill -park campers on grass to be closer to one side or another of your site -sites are reservable
Cons -no water at sites -no 50 amps -no dump but KOA and RV dealer 5-7 mins away
-site 29 only have 2-20 amp plugs no 30 didn’t realized till we parked. Only this one doesn’t have 30 -horses traffic on Saturday eventually from what the ranger told me once Covid is better -most sites back up to main road(mostly light traffic and none at night)
RangerI only rated this a 3 because of location. Its located next to odd Monsanto property but great vineyards. I know. Weird. Anyway great multi use if you enjoy hiking, mountain biking ATV and horses. My husband and I went to check out cave vineyard which is exactly what it sounds like and is not to be missed. The facilities at this campground were top notch and the the sites were huge! Missouri always does a great job and its a great place to camp. A few minutes drive from the popular st. Genevieve.
GuideI’ve camped at both campgrounds offered at St. Joe. In the fall of 2018, we stayed at CG#1, the spot has a nice gravel tent pad with border, picnic table, and a fire pit. The spot also offered a concrete section for a camper and cars. We had a pop-up and one tent and it was very spacious. A great spot with a minute walk to a very well kept shower house and bathroom. We really liked this spot at CG#1.
CG#2 is located about 2-3 away from the main campground, this includes the shower house and main bathrooms. There is no shower house at CG#2. I stayed at CG#2 about a week ago. Very similar in design to the sites at CG#1, it also offers amenities for those with horses. We had a spot with electric and no water, water is located close by the vault toilets. The site has a gravel parking area rather than the concrete one at CG#1. We had two tents, two cars, and five people, just as spacious. If you want more seclusion and don’t really care about being right next to the showers, I would suggest CG#2.
Also, there was a trail located right by our spot at CG#2, it’s a good hike!!
Two clean and well kept swimming areas, great trails, good camp sites, and great bathrooms/showers!
Equestrian camping options near De Soto, Missouri extend beyond St. Francois State Park, with several alternatives within a 45-minute drive. The region sits in the eastern Ozark foothills, with elevations ranging from 500-1,200 feet and moderate humidity levels during summer months. Camping areas throughout the region often experience temperature variations of 15-20°F between day and night, making layered clothing essential during spring and fall visits.
Trail riding at St. Joe State Park: The park offers extensive equestrian-friendly trails separated from ATV areas, with designated horse camping facilities. "Good place to ride your off road vehicles. Lots of trails and plenty of different types of trails to try out. Good clean campground for the hole family to enjoy," notes J.T., who visited St. Joe State Park Campground.
Swimming and wading options: Multiple water access points provide cooling opportunities during hot summer days. A camper at Ozark Outdoors Riverfront Resort reports, "The family beach was really nice" and mentions two swimming areas available to visitors. St. Joe State Park also features "two clean and well kept swimming areas" according to Olivia S.
Hiking at Berryman Trail: The trail system connects several campgrounds and offers various difficulty levels through dense forest terrain. Miles W. shares his experience at Berryman Trail & Campgrounds: "The trail was really cool and we saw a wild turkey nest with eggs!" The trail network provides multiple access points for day hikes or multi-day backpacking trips.
Site spacing and privacy: Some campgrounds offer more secluded experiences than others. Hannah F. appreciates that Brazil Creek is "completely free and most of all well spaced out. There is plenty of room to keep to yourself and remain undisturbed between the 8 available spots." This contrasts with more developed options like Cherokee Landing, where sites may be closer together.
Water access for recreation: Multiple campsites provide direct river or creek access. Lindsey R. mentions Cherokee Landing has a "nice, small, clean campground" that's "right on the Big River and they offer floats." This provides convenient water activities without traveling off-site.
Shade coverage: Most campgrounds in the region maintain natural forest cover. Joy F. comments about Ozark Outdoors Riverfront Resort: "Some of the spots are close together but it seems to be that way because they kept as many natural trees as possible!" The shade helps moderate temperatures during summer months when humidity levels rise.
Noise considerations: Several campgrounds experience noise from nearby roads, businesses, or recreational activities. Todd P. notes about the St. Louis West KOA: "It will be even better when they invent silent trains," indicating the train noise can be disruptive. Similarly, Cody S. reports that St. Francois State Park can be "loud on the weekends especially if there are races at the nearby Bonne Terre drag strip."
Site size variations: RV and horse trailer accommodations vary significantly between campgrounds. At Greensfelder County Park, Matthew H. observes, "Most sites are great for trailers 26' or less and 1 slide (sites 24-26 can fit a fifth wheel probably no bigger than 36-38 ft)." Research site specifications before booking.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies throughout the region. DiveSyke reports about Brazil Creek: "I have at&t and ive been getting 1 to 3 bars. But the other person im camping withuisnt grtting anything with their provider." Prepare for limited or no service at more remote locations.
Playground availability: Not all campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. Jennifer G. mentions that at Ozark Outdoors, "Last I saw the playground was not huge but my kids still enjoyed it," suggesting families bring alternative activities for children.
Swimming safety precautions: Water access points vary in depth and current. At Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park, Ashlee B. shares, "Our kids loved climbing all over the shut-ins. We have already planned to return in the summer to swim!" Parents should supervise children closely around water features.
Educational opportunities: Several parks offer ranger-led programs during peak seasons. Charlotte B. reports Johnson's Shut-Ins had "neat programs going on while we were there including a smores contest and adult scavenger hunt," providing structured activities for various age groups.
Hookup limitations: Many campgrounds offer electric-only sites with limited amperage. Matthew H. notes that at Greensfelder County Park, you'll find "no 50 amps" and "no water at sites," though there is "frost free water at both ends of the campground." Plan water usage accordingly.
Dump station access: Several campgrounds lack on-site dump facilities. As Matthew H. mentions about Greensfelder, there's "no dump but KOA and RV dealer 5-7 mins away," requiring advance planning for longer stays.
Leveling challenges: Some sites require significant leveling equipment. Megan L. reported at Ozark Outdoors that "The campsite was so unlevel my 1 year old couldnt even stand outside the camper without falling," suggesting bringing extra leveling blocks when visiting certain campgrounds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near De Soto, MO?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near De Soto, MO is St. Francois State Park Campground with a 4-star rating from 30 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near De Soto, MO?
TheDyrt.com has all 20 equestrian camping locations near De Soto, MO, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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