Bennett Spring State Park Campground and Montauk State Park Campground offer luxury glamping accommodations near Falcon, Missouri, located in the heart of the Ozark region. The area sits at approximately 1,200 feet elevation with rolling terrain characterized by limestone bluffs and spring-fed waterways. Winter temperatures typically range from 20-45°F, while summer months reach 85-95°F with moderate humidity. Camping conditions vary significantly between seasons, with specialized trout seasons and varying levels of campground occupancy.
What to do
Winter camping options: Bennett Spring State Park Campground offers year-round camping opportunities with Campground One remaining open during winter months. "We stayed in campground one because it is the only one open during the off season. You can make reservations online before going to ensure you have the spot you want," notes one winter camper at Bennett Spring State Park Campground.
Swimming facilities: The Olympic-sized swimming pool at Bennett Spring State Park provides a welcome alternative to river activities during summer months. "The park has a pool open from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Several different campgrounds offer a variety. Primarily a trout fisherman's paradise the park offers plenty for the family," explains a regular visitor.
Seasonal hiking trails: The 20+ miles of hiking trails at Bennett Spring range from leisurely stream walks to challenging mountain paths. "The park has over twenty miles of hiking trails meandering through its 3,216 acres. Trails range from a leisurely walk along the stream to that of rigorous mountain trails that reward hikers with great picturesque views of the Ozark Mountains," shares an experienced hiker.
What campers like
Historic park elements: The 1930s Civilian Conservation Corps structures add historical significance to your glamping experience close to Falcon, Missouri. "One aspect of this park that is so appealing is the historical character that came from the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) improvements made back in the 1930's. They built a dam, arched bridge, cabins and shelters, dining lodge, roads, and trails," explains a visitor at Bennett Spring State Park Campground.
Spring access: The natural springs feeding these rivers provide unique swimming and exploration opportunities beyond fishing. "Hike the quarter mile trial to the springs (one of my son's favorites, he likes to search for the water bubbling out of the ground)," recommends a regular camper at Montauk State Park Campground.
Varied camping loops: The different camping areas offer distinct experiences depending on your preferences. "The campground is broken down into 4 separate loops, with loop 1 being the only basic section, all the others have electricity. I have spent more time recently camping in the basic section with the guys. We have used sites 115 for the space and 119 for the seclusion," notes a frequent Montauk visitor.
What you should know
WiFi availability: Contrary to expectations, some campgrounds offer internet connectivity. "We were surprised when we found that there was Wi-Fi available for free at the campground," reports a winter camper at Bennett Spring State Park Campground.
Bathroom considerations: Restroom facilities vary across campgrounds and seasons. "One negative is we only found one toilet for the entire campground. It wasn't a problem at this time because there was hardly anybody there, but I imagine if you wanted to use the toilet during the regular season you would find yourself with a line or going somewhere else," notes a winter visitor.
Off-park swimming spots: Consider nearby swimming areas just outside park boundaries. "If you head out of the park on YY you will find Tan Vat Access located right outside the park on the Current. This is a great place to take young ones for a dip in its cool waters," shares a Lane Spring Recreation Area camper who also visits Montauk.
Tips for camping with families
Biking opportunities: Paved roads throughout some campgrounds make for excellent family cycling. "The roads are all paved so it made biking for our kids easy and enjoyable. The campsite was spacious and shaded. The kids loved playing in the creek and hiking the trails," explains a family visitor at Bennett Spring State Park.
Hatchery tours: Schedule a tour of the fish hatchery for an educational experience. "If you decide not to fish, there are things to do such as take a tour of the mill when the naturalist does one of their demonstrations... feed the fish at the hatchery, or take in one of the nature programs at the amphitheater," recommends a Montauk visitor.
Local excursions: Unique attractions just outside park boundaries provide additional family entertainment. "You can take a gravel road out of the park to a funky little place called Bo's Hollow. A family has built a small town in a field, where you can buy a bbq sandwich lunch, and take a model A ride to Ashley creek for swimming and a picnic," shares a Gasconade Hills Resort visitor describing nearby attractions.
Tips from RVers
Winter RV camping: Bennett Spring offers winter RV sites with key considerations. "This time wife and I took our small camper just to get away for the weekend. We stayed in campground one because it is the only one open during the off season. Campground one is in a flat spot down by the water and it is actually rather open and built for large rigs to fit in," advises a winter RVer.
Site selection strategies: Select appropriate sites based on your preference for privacy versus fishing access. "You can also rent modern hotel suite-style cabins and eat in the dining hall so you don't have to cook. Nice general store too," notes a visitor who enjoys luxury glamping near Falcon, Missouri at Montauk State Park Campground.
Reservation timing: During peak seasons, advance reservations are essential. "Reserve early as it fills up fast!" warns an RVer about Bennett Spring's Campground 1, which offers water, sewer, and electric hookups but limited shade compared to other loops.
