The camping spots near Ellington, Missouri provide access to the Black River and multiple spring-fed waterways within the Mark Twain National Forest. Situated at an elevation of around 800 feet, this southeastern Missouri region features rocky terrain and limestone formations that create unique water features. Winter camping options remain accessible with temperatures rarely dropping below 20°F, while summer brings consistent 80-90°F days with high humidity.
What to Do
Swimming in natural waterways: At Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park, the unique rock formations create natural water slides and pools perfect for summer cooling. "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," shares Chad K.
Hiking through diverse terrain: Multiple trails connect campgrounds to natural features. At Johnson's Shut-Ins, "There is a beautiful bike trail connecting the campground to the rest of the park. They also had neat programs going on while we were there including a smores contest and adult scavenger hunt," notes Charlotte B.
Rock hunting along riverbeds: The Current River at Log Yard Campground offers excellent opportunities for finding interesting rocks. "This place is like a hidden treasure. Lots of space on the bank to have privacy from other campers, the river was blue and super pretty, and the area was very clean," reports Malayna F.
What Campers Like
Spacious campsites: Sam A. Baker State Park offers well-maintained sites with good spacing. "My group and I stayed in Campground 1 and we were so pleased with how well-kept our sites were. Even during the last weekend of September, it was hot out, so we were glad there were plenty of trees around," writes Madelyn H.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain good bathroom and shower facilities. At Big Spring Campground, "Loop 200 offers a restroom with flush toilets. Hot showers are less than 10 minute walk. We enjoyed the trail the follows the river right behind the campground," according to Jason F.
Water access: Most popular campgrounds feature direct river or lake access. At Big Spring, "Came here for a solo winter camping trip with my dog. It was really nice. The spring was beautiful and the campsites and amenities were very well kept," notes Kristin A.
What You Should Know
Seasonal considerations: While some campgrounds operate year-round, others have limited seasons. At Piedmont Park, which operates from April 15 to September 30, one camper noted, "We stayed here when the Clear Water Lake was at record flooding level, boat docks were cut off from any foot traffic. So we had the campground mostly to ourselves."
Road access challenges: Some campgrounds require crossing water or navigating rough terrain. At Log Yard, one camper advised: "The coordinates for this place just takes you to the start of the road not to the actual campsites. So once you get to the road just drive down it. It's not too far and car could make it."
Reservation requirements: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially during summer weekends. At Johnson's Shut-Ins, Curtis M. observed, "Lots of folks are aware of this once hidden gem so go during the week."
Tips for Camping with Families
Educational opportunities: Many campgrounds offer ranger programs for children. At Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park, "Amazing state park with wonderful new visitor center. Lots of history and it has completely been rebuilt. Campground was clean and well managed. Lots of wildlife and amazing science at work," notes Josh S.
Kid-friendly water features: Look for campgrounds with gentle water access. "My kids go on an 'annual cousins camping trip' with my sister in law and her girls every summer. Johnson's Shut-Ins was perfect!" shares Melissa M.
Playground availability: Some campgrounds include designated play areas. At Bearcat Getaway, one camper mentioned, "They have a little store, running water, decent bathrooms with hot showers and a playground. It's an affordable place and family/pet friendly."
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup distribution: Electric sites are limited at some campgrounds. At Echo Bluff State Park, one camper noted, "This place literally has everything you can want from walk in tent sites to an entire lodge with all the amenities. Campsites are all well manicured and offer everything from basic sites to full RV hook ups."
Level pads availability: Many campgrounds provide concrete or gravel pads. At Big Spring Campground, Jason F. observed that the campground "offers 29 electric sites and many more with level pads, picnic tables, lanterns hooks, and fire pits."
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds with electric hookups provide sewer connections. A reviewer at Sam A. Baker notes, "We spent four days at the park with friends during the higher rain and very, high river. The park as usual was yet maintained in almost perfect conditions, staff was very nice."
