Dog-Friendly Camping near De Soto, MO

The camping regions near De Soto, Missouri sit within the eastern Ozark foothills, with elevations ranging between 500-800 feet above sea level. Campgrounds in this area typically receive 45 inches of annual rainfall, creating lush forested settings for campers. Fall camping is particularly popular as temperatures drop to 50-70°F during the day and the dense hardwood forests display vibrant autumn colors.

What to do

Prehistoric exploration: 1000 Steps Trail offers a moderate hiking challenge with educational value at Washington State Park Campground. "We hiked the 1000 step trail. Most of the campers did fine but those who were not use to hiking did struggle a bit. If you are use to hiking, then this trail should not be any problem for you," notes Scott M.

Kayaking on Big River: The waterways near De Soto provide excellent paddling opportunities during summer months. "My husband and i kayaked here and it was amazing! probably the best short trip you could take on a kayak," shares Allyson D. about her experience at Washington State Park.

Cave tours: Explore underground formations at Meramec Caverns Natural Campground, located 45 minutes from De Soto. "Pay the extra for the caves tour! Down the road there's an old iron foundry and a historic cemetery to explore," recommends Lynn G. The cave maintains a constant 58°F temperature year-round, making it a refreshing summer activity.

What campers like

Private tent sites: Hawn State Park Campground offers secluded walk-in sites for those seeking more privacy. "If you're car camping take the extra walk to the walk-in camping sites. It's like a micro backpacking trip," suggests Megan M.

Fall foliage: The hardwood forests transform during autumn months. "Great time of year to visit! Surrounded by trees changing colors the fall is beautiful here. The campground has several hiking trails and also river access to go canoeing," writes Lindsey R. about her October visit to Washington State Park.

Weekend convenience: Robertsville State Park Campground provides pet friendly camping options close to urban areas. "Not much to do here, it's just a place for me to camp 15 minutes from home. It has a nice loop trail behind the camp ground that goes down to the river," explains Tony S.

What you should know

Site selection matters: At St. Francois State Park Campground, site placement affects your experience. "The campground has oddly shaped campsites causing a crowded feel. The campground is also loud on the weekends especially if there are races at the nearby Bonne Terre drag strip," warns Cody S.

Cell service varies: Coverage can be spotty depending on location and provider. "The campground is great. Most of the sites are flat and paved. The campground is right next to the Meramec River. There is WiFi available but it is not reliable. The cell phone service is virtually non-existent," reports Mats about Meramec State Park.

Winter camping options: Most campgrounds in the area remain open year-round, but with limited amenities. "Loved the campground! However, lesson learned to reserve a campsite further from the road. Clean vault toilets... I didn't like how people would drive into the park from the highway just to use the bathroom," shares David T. about his December stay at Washington State Park.

Tips for camping with families

Water activities: Twin Eagle Lake Estates & Hideout offers multiple water recreation options. "Played in the waterhole, played on the lake w/paddleboats and kayaks. Nice campsites and showerhouse. The bar and store were beautiful. Arcade, pool, games for kids and adults," shares lori W.

Off-season visits: School-year camping trips mean fewer crowds. "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," notes a reviewer about St. Francois State Park.

Local wildlife viewing: Morning and evening hours provide opportunities to spot deer, raccoons, and birds. "The State Park has a great canopy of trees located next to a stream as a setting for the campground that bounds with wildlife. We saw deer and raccoons here that entered our campsite," mentions Tom K. about Meramec State Park.

Tips for RVers

Site leveling: Prepare for uneven terrain at many campgrounds. "Nice quiet campground but the lots are pretty uneven so make sure you bring plenty of cribbing," advises Montt B. about Robertsville State Park.

Water access limitations: Most campgrounds offer electric hookups but limited water connections. "The spaces are electric only, so if you are wanting full hookups you better look elsewhere. Also they have communist water so you don't get to hookup to that all the time either," explains a reviewer about Robertsville State Park.

Multiple dump stations: Plan your route with sanitation needs in mind. "We did have a spot with electric and no water, water is located close by the vault toilets," notes Olivia S. about St. Joe State Park's Campground #2, showing that resource locations vary across campgrounds.