Camping opportunities near Farmington, Missouri range from wooded state parks to RV-friendly sites along rivers. The area's elevation varies from 700-1,000 feet above sea level, with summer temperatures typically reaching the low 90s and winters dropping into the 30s. Spring and fall offer the most comfortable camping conditions with moderate precipitation and temperatures ranging from 50-75°F.
What to do
**Creek exploration: Visit Big Creek RV Park where you can enjoy their spring-fed creek. "The creek is nice for cooling down on a hot day, but there is a pool if you'd rather do that. Saturday is fun with different campground activities and an evening hayride," explains Mike T.
**Hiking trails: Explore Hawn State Park Campground with its diverse trail system. "The trails are amazing with big boulders and beautiful creeks. If you're car camping take the extra walk to the walk-in camping sites. It's like a micro backpacking trip," shares Megan M.
**Nature watching: Spend time at Saline Creek RV Park and Campground observing local wildlife. "Beautiful, and quiet. New sites, tables, and a beautiful creek. A couple of pony's too," notes Vicky P.
What campers like
**Private campsites: Campers appreciate the seclusion at Silver Mines campground. "Each campsite is private and has its own picnic table and fire pit. Trails from the campground lead down to the water," reports Kippy N.
**Family activities: Many visitors enjoy the organized events at Big Creek RV Park. "Nice little park with great activities. Spring fed creek runs along side," explains Rhonda M.
**Natural surroundings: The unique ecosystem at Hawn State Park draws campers. "Nowhere else in the state of Missouri have I been able to camp and feel like I'm in the middle of the Rocky Mountains. The car camping area is nestled in the middle of a pine filled valley."
What you should know
**Cell service considerations: Coverage varies significantly in the region. At Big Creek RV Park, "Verizon worked ok. T-Mobile very poor," according to Eric H.
**Water access: Not all campgrounds offer the same water facilities. Silver Mines has "water spigots throughout the camp ground" but no showers.
**Reservation systems: Most campgrounds require advance booking, especially during peak seasons. At Silver Mines, "Advanced reservations for campsites are available through the us forestry website. If you do not pay online in advanced, make sure to bring cash or check with you."
Tips for camping with families
**Entertainment options: Consider campgrounds with dedicated activities. "Big Creek is very nice setting with all the amenities, including Wifi and Laundry facility. Great little pool in middle of park."
**Site selection: Choose campsites that accommodate family needs. At Meramec State Park Campground, "The campground has a great canopy of trees located next to a stream as a setting for the campground that bounds with wildlife. We saw deer and raccoons here that entered our campsite."
**Educational opportunities: Look for campgrounds with learning experiences. At Meramec, "Pay the extra for the caves tour! Down the road there's an old iron foundry and a historic cemetery to explore."
Tips from RVers
**Site dimensions: Check campground specifications for your RV size. At Perryville RV Resort By Rjourney, "The property itself is beautiful. Spots are intermingled in the trees and it is spectacular in the morning."
**Utility connections: Confirm what hookups are available. At Covered Bridge RV Park, "concrete pads, easy hook-ups, good internet, and paved streets" make setup convenient.
**Practical needs: Consider access to supplies and services. "Be advised, not a lot of supplies nearby. Make sure you bring with you," notes one camper about RV camping near Farmington, Missouri.
