Camping options near Farmington, Missouri extend throughout the Mark Twain National Forest region, with elevations ranging from 500-1,700 feet across the St. Francois Mountains. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-95°F with high humidity, while spring and fall provide milder 60-75°F conditions ideal for outdoor activities. Most campgrounds in the area remain open year-round, though water systems may be winterized from November through March.
What to do
Creek exploration: 8 miles of trails The Marble Creek Recreation Area offers easy access to crystal clear water. "This spot was perfect for our group of friends bringing children! Site #20 had a perfect path to the water, and a reasonable creek walk up to a swimming hole," notes a visitor to Marble Creek Rec Area.
Hiking: Various skill levels: Hawn State Park features trails from beginner to advanced with unique pine forest terrain. "Hawn is a lovely park just south of the city a few clicks. It's tucked away into the trees with ample shade and options for backpacking, backcountry hiking," explains a camper at Hawn State Park Campground.
Floating: Multiple river options: The Black River provides gentler floating experiences suitable for families and beginners. "Waters were super clear. They have bathrooms and showers. ATT cell service works good here," reports a visitor to Twin Rivers Landing.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Some campgrounds offer more secluded experiences. "The campground is beautiful and the sites are spaced apart so that you don't feel like you're camping on top of your neighbors. We were able to camp right next to the creek and it was amazing," shares a Marble Creek camper.
Shade coverage: Many glamping sites in Farmington offer extensive tree canopy. "St. Francois is a nice park tucked in the forest off of Hwy 67. It's a quaint park that tends to fill up fast depending on time of year," notes a visitor to St. Francois State Park Campground.
Water activities: Swimming holes and river access rank high with visitors. "My family camps at Sam A Baker every year. It is clean and everyone there is friendly. They have a nice gift shop and some great places to swim," explains a regular at Sam A. Baker State Park Campground.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many glamping sites near Farmington require advance booking, particularly during peak season (May-September). "We spent a Saturday and Sunday there camping in the electric site. They do have tent sites but we wanted to be closer to the river which was a 2min walk," explains a visitor about their experience at Washington State Park Campground.
Campsite locations vary: Sites can range from highly private to close together. "The campsites are a bit more snug together than I would prefer. There are some nice hiking options within the park," shares a St. Francois State Park camper.
Potable water access: Not all campgrounds offer readily available drinking water. "No fresh water on site, we had to drive into town on Saturday to buy a few gallons. No electricity. $10 per site per night, but well worth it!" notes a Marble Creek visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Bathroom accessibility: Choose sites near facilities when traveling with younger children. "They have a shower house with clean and they also have some vault toilets in the park for convenience," reports a Hawn State Park camper.
Swimming safety: Many natural swimming areas lack lifeguards. "You can sit in the cool clear water and relax. Great place for kids. Park is well maintained," notes a Sam A. Baker visitor.
Kid-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with designated play areas. "The park as usual was yet maintained in almost perfect conditions, staff was very nice. We spent time walking around the park, relaxing and just talking," shares a family that stayed at Sam A. Baker State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Many glamping accommodations near Farmington have size restrictions. "We did have a site in the 2nd campground in the middle where there's a break in the trees. I was able to use Starlink," explains a visitor to Hawn State Park.
Hookup variations: RV glamping options range from basic to full-service. "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," notes a Twin Rivers Landing visitor.
Level site availability: Twin Eagle Lake Estates offers premium glamping sites with full hookups. "Twin Eagle is a one of the best fall campgrounds close to the St. Louis area. There are a number of hiking options around the campground in the park and nearby nature reserve."
