Cabins near Ellington, Missouri offer access to the Black River watershed, with the area's elevation ranging from 600-900 feet throughout the Ozark foothills. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing from December through February, making heated cabin accommodations particularly valuable during cold months. Summer high temperatures typically reach 85-95°F, with high humidity.
What to do
Swimming spots: access points vary by season. Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park features natural water chutes and pools formed by ancient volcanic rock. "The setting at this state park is the draw. The river and the trails are well worth the trip. It snowed on our last visit in March," notes a Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park visitor.
Hiking trails: range from beginner to advanced. Big Spring Campground provides access to several trails that follow the Current River. "We enjoyed the trail the follows the river right behind the campground. Be sure to check out the Slough trail which takes you right to Big Spring!" writes a Big Spring Campground camper.
Fishing access: catch bass, trout, and sunfish. Black River Hideaway Campground provides convenient fishing access. "Less than two minutes down the road from Jeff's Canoe Rental and the beautiful K Bridge Black River public access," reports one visitor. The campground offers proximity to prime fishing spots year-round.
What campers like
Clean facilities: regularly maintained shower houses. Beaver Springs Campground receives praise for their upkeep. "A really nice smaller privately owned campground that still has all of the perks. Pool, clean bath house, ice, fire wood, etc. Bordered by a spring branch and just a mile from Clearwater lake access," notes a Beaver Springs Campground visitor.
Affordable options: budget-friendly cabin rentals. Twin Rivers Landing offers economical cabin options. "We were hiking the OT from Taum Sauk to Johnson Shut-ins so we opted for a camping cabin to keep it simple. Outside there is a big water spigot, picnic table, fire ring, and grill," explains one Twin Rivers Landing camper.
Year-round availability: seasonal considerations affect booking. Kempers Hideaway Resort remains open through multiple seasons. "Owners are very friendly and accommodating. Save your money and buy firewood here at the hideaway, best value ($7) and a large amount," shares one guest who stayed at this rental cabin location.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: book 3-6 months ahead for summer. Echo Bluff State Park cabins fill quickly during peak season. "The only negative is that we have experienced are that you need to reserve your side months in advance because this campground is so popular," warns one Echo Bluff State Park visitor.
Cell service: varies widely by location. Most cabin areas have limited coverage. "Att cell service works good here," notes a Twin Rivers Landing visitor, though many other cabin locations report spotty or non-existent service.
Weather considerations: flooding can impact access. Spring rains often cause river levels to rise rapidly. "We spent four days at the park with friends during the higher rain and very, high river. I have never seen the river through the park so high to the top of the banks," reports a Sam A. Baker State Park visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Pool amenities: alternative to river swimming. Black River Hideaway offers supervised swimming options. "This place has an in-ground pool that's lit up until 10pm (or later if the kids aren't being too loud), a large lake with swings and fire pits around it, a bigger playground," notes one Black River Hideaway Campground visitor.
Playground access: available at select locations. Sam A. Baker State Park provides family-friendly recreation areas. "We loved this campground. Great people, a lot of fun! Swimming and floating in the river. Hiking trails. Great time!!" writes a visitor with children.
Educational opportunities: ranger programs for kids. Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park offers structured activities. "They also had neat programs going on while we were there including a smores contest and adult scavenger hunt," shares one camper who visited with family.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: premium sites offer most amenities. Sam A. Baker State Park accommodates various RV sizes. "We spent time walking around the park, relaxing and just talking. The park as usual was yet maintained in almost perfect conditions, staff was very nice," notes a Sam A. Baker State Park RVer.
Utilities availability: water and electric hookups common. RV sites with full hookups are limited. "Large primitive sites with plenty of space and access to community water pump in each area. Full RV hookup sites with room for tent camping friends," explains a Twin Rivers Landing visitor.
Seasonal considerations: winter camping requires preparation. Year-round cabins may offer better winter options than RV sites. "It included a kitchenette, full bathroom, fire ring, BBQ grill, picnic table," describes a visitor discussing the winter-ready accommodations.
