The Farmington, Missouri region sits within the St. Francois Mountains, featuring elevations ranging from 700 to 1,700 feet. The area contains significant geological features including shut-ins, where rivers flow through narrow channels of hard igneous rock. Camping options vary from primitive tent sites to cabins, with most campgrounds situated between 800-1,000 feet elevation and temperatures averaging 5-10 degrees cooler than surrounding lowlands.
What to do
Whitewater activities: The St. Francis River at Silver Mines offers challenging kayaking opportunities when water levels are high. "Just a short walk down to the beautiful river where you can see the small waterfall and hike upriver to see another," notes Jamie B., who found the secluded campsites surrounded by trees particularly appealing.
Off-road vehicle trails: St. Joe State Park maintains extensive ORV areas for dirt bikes and four-wheelers. As one visitor explains, "Good place to ride your off road vehicles. Lots of trails and plenty of different types of trails to try out." The park requires riders to follow safety rules while using the designated riding areas.
Fishing opportunities: Most area campgrounds offer fishing access, with Big River at Cherokee Landing providing both lake and river fishing options. Though water levels fluctuate seasonally, the river typically remains accessible year-round. The fishing areas require a Missouri fishing license, available online or at local sporting goods stores.
What campers like
Pine forests: The region's pine stands create distinctive camping environments unlike typical Missouri woodland. At Hawn State Park Campground, visitors appreciate the unique atmosphere: "Beautiful park and really comfortable with kids. Many different camp options with different prices and amenities," writes Shirlee A., highlighting the clean shower facilities and family-friendly environment.
Walk-in tent sites: Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park offers platform tent sites on dedicated loops. "Beautiful site, each walk-in was spread apart from each other. We loved it and cannot wait to go back," reports Elizabeth W. The park provides carts to transport gear from parking areas to walk-in sites, adding convenience to the secluded camping experience.
Quiet winter camping: The region's campgrounds remain open year-round with reduced crowds during colder months. At Taum Sauk Mountain State Park, Amanda C. notes, "We stayed here on a Tuesday evening in early November. It was election night so we were happy to not have a cell signal for the night. The sites are all walk in but it's a short walk from your car to the site."
What you should know
Reservation timing: Book campsites far in advance for peak seasons. Hawn State Park fills quickly, with Megan M. explaining that it offers an experience unlike other Missouri campgrounds: "Small park as far as the amount of campsites, but this makes it peaceful and secluded."
Site placement rules: Some parks enforce strict tent placement guidelines. At St. Joe State Park, Ashley S. notes, "They were very picky about every single thing we set up. They required the tent had to be set up on the gravel but we had 2 large tents and they did not fit."
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies significantly between camping areas. At Bismark Lake Conservation Area, Alexis M. reports, "Nice spot. No Verizon signal at camping area but signal down the road." Prepare for limited connectivity, particularly at more remote campsites near Farmington.
Rocky terrain: Several campgrounds have challenging ground conditions for tent setup. At Taum Sauk Mountain State Park, Amanda C. warns, "Very rocky ground so be careful where you put your tent."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming areas: Washington State Park Campground provides river access with water activities. "We kayaked here and it was amazing! Probably the best short trip you could take on a kayak," shares Allyson D., highlighting the family-friendly water recreation options.
Educational activities: Several parks offer interpretive programs and historical sites. Phil W. notes that at Washington State Park, "The prehistoric Petroglyphs nearby are a must see," making it a valuable learning opportunity for children.
Campground playground access: St. Francois State Park provides play areas near camping loops. While many campers find the sites "oddly shaped" and sometimes crowded, the family amenities compensate for closer quarters. Cody S. notes the noise level can increase on weekends, particularly "if there are races at the nearby Bonne Terre drag strip."
Cabin alternatives: For families new to camping, cabin rentals provide comfortable overnight options. Cherokee Landing offers cabin accommodations with convenient access to water activities, with Kristine K. describing it as an "Awesome Family Campground" where "you can rent a cart to go running around the huge campground."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many campsites in the region require leveling blocks. At Patt's Place, LLC, Chris L. found "Well graveled spaces, easy water and electric hook-up with both 30 and 50 amp," making setup straightforward even for first-time RVers.
Electric service reliability: Washington State Park offers dependable electric connections, with David T. noting, "Easy plug n play electric on a 30 amp box, no issues with blowing fuses like I have at other big state parks."
Campground navigation assistance: Private campgrounds often provide setup help. Chris L. reports that at Patt's Place, "Owners met us at the entrance and guided us in which was much appreciated. They were extremely nice and helped us get set up since we knew nothing."
