2 campgrounds with availability next weekend
St. Joe State Park Campground features two separate camping areas with equestrian accommodations. Campground 2 is specifically designed for horse owners with larger sites to accommodate equestrian needs. The park includes equestrian trails separate from ATV trails, and sites are set up with horse trailer parking. Facilities include tie stalls under a roof, a round pen, and mounting blocks. Electricity is available at each site with water nearby. The campground is located about 5 minutes from St. Genevieve and offers multi-use recreation including hiking, mountain biking, and ATV riding alongside horseback riding. The sites are spacious enough for trailers and camping equipment with gravel tent pads and fire pits.
Greensfelder County Park provides electric hookups at sites 20-29, with site 28 being non-reservable. The park is primarily known for its equestrian focus, featuring well-marked trails with eventing jumps. Horse camping areas include standing stall type open barns and a round pen for turnout. Campsites are designed specifically for horse trailers with ample room to back in. The park maintains miles of trails for mountain biking, hiking, and horseback riding, all well-marked with maps available. Trails offer scenic views and connect to various parts of the park. The campground serves as a staging area for equestrians who use the park, making reservations advisable during busy periods. Sites can accommodate trailers up to 26 feet with one slide, while sites 24-26 can fit larger fifth wheels.
"Not a huge campground but, Its a really simple beautiful place to enjoy Missouri's rolling hills. It is located 1 hour from St. Louis and 30 ish min from Elephant Rock State park."
"My site was close to the camp host and the shower house. Shower house was nice with 4 separate showers with locking doors. Water pressure was great and they were clean."
Available next weekend
from $15 - $27 / night
"Our site was gravel to park on with grass around it. Close to train tracks and highway, but didn’t notice with AC on in the camper. Close to 6 flags."
"This campground is fairly close to downtown and very close to lots of shopping. A great place to stay to stock up on supplies before heading west."
"pros- activities for kids/fam nice pool tons of trees easy access from highway close amenities (Walmart, six flags, etc) close to StL (tons to do) we did grants farm and city museum one day"
"We spent a weekend here because we wanted to be close to six flags. I swear this place was more fun!!!"
"So, as one of Missouri’s atv parks, this can be a load one. But, you can camp at campground 2, and you’re dealing with a MUCH more classic camping scenario."
"A great spot with a minute walk to a very well kept shower house and bathroom. We really liked this spot at CG#1."
Available next weekend
from $15 - $52 / night
"There is no equestrian camping and the parking for horse trailers is super small. There’s a neat 7 mile loop goes by old stable as well."
"Babler State Park Wildwood, MO
💰 $12-$21/night
🗓 Feb 19-21, 2022
Site 48 ⚡️💧
🦮 Pets Welcome (on leash at all times)
➕Concrete Pads, Quiet, Close to Interstate 40, Paved Roads, Easy to Access"
Campground full next weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $15 - $35 / night
"We love the beautiful lake, the swimming area is big and has a nice patio for access. You can rent a cart to go running around the huge campground. Very friendly staff."
from $25 - $36 / night
"Heavy equestrian park, it’s not required (to have a horse) to stay here. A few piles of horses droppings but very well maintained."
"Pretty nice wooded campground close to St. Louis! Each site has a picnic bench, a fire pit and grill."
"It's remote and off the beaten path. A small campground with only 8 spots, some big enough for RVs. No hook ups or water. Pack it in and pack it out. Each site had enough space from each other."
"Pavillion, parking and horse tie out area adjacent trailhead. Excellent place to bring the kids if you want to unplug them from the media world. Trails and bugs and things that go bump in the night."
from $8 - $15 / night
"Positives: quiet time starting at 11:00 pm, we didn’t hear cursing, loud music, or anything else that disturbs little ones once they go to sleep, close to the river, clean restroom and shower house, shaded"
"They have a family section if you prefer to be away from the louder bunch."
"Great spot in a beautiful area close to St. Louis. No power but access to drinking water and waste water dump for just 8$."
"Horseshoe Lake is one of my most visited parks and most favorite park in the STL and surrounding areas. First off absolutely beautiful land and peace is easily achieved."
RangerThis is a decent campground to stay for free. There is a pit toilet. There was only one picnic table and not many defined spots but I think you can pull up in the grass wherever you like. It's right at a trailhead. I started to walk the trail but couldn't find it when it crossed the road. The roads are good getting here. The campground road has a few pot holes, but nothing too bad. I would come back here and look for nearby hiking.
GuideI gave this campground a five star again. I am a solo female camper. I like to go to places that are safe with a good atmosphere and this had both and plenty of things to do a roundabout when coming through this area again I will definitely stay here.
GuideCamping area is closed until further notice. Construction
LegendThis is a park not far from St Louis with camping and hiking. Campground is on the small side.
GuideI know a large majority of the park is meant for ORV’s but there was just constant noise even in the campground. Besides that it was great though!
ScoutDecided to visit with family(wife, teenage daughter, and 76 y.o. father) this Saturday afternoon, after completing a peaceful hike at Onandoga S.P., to consider camping later in the week. We politely, respectfully drove into the campground on the MAIN LOOP, around 5-10 mph, and checked the condition of the campsites. We noticed a few other campers present throughout the campground. Our windows were rolled down. Near the primitive campsites, a white vehicle rapidly, aggressively approached us from the left, rear of our car. Horn blaring. RECKLESSLY drove right up onto our rear bumper, then swerved to the left to try to force us over. The man rapidly approached us from his vehicle and accosted us with multiple, rapid fire questions what we were doing and why we were there. WHILE HE WAS AGGRESSIVELY INTERROGATING US, HE WAS CROUCHED FORWARD, POSTURING THAT HE WAS PREPARED TO DRAW ON US. I COULD CLEARLY SEE HIS LEFT HAND ON A FIREARM IN HIS LEFT POCKET- the handle of the firearm was clearly visible. The silhouette of the gun was clearly visible in his left pants pocket. Any reasonably intelligent person would have seen as we drove at a near walking pace on the main loop that we were not there to cause any problems. Any REMOTELY INTELLIGENT person would have instantly realized that we were just a family checking out potential campsites. Any reasonable person would have also considered this RECKLESS ACT OF AGGRESSION as a threat on their family. I was concerned for the safely of my family and myself. An embarrassing act of overreach. The"security guard" identified himself as"Dave." We will NEVER give this place our business again. I will NEVER risk taking my family here again. This place probably does not want your family here either...
ScoutThis campground is nice for March, when it's a little cool. But there is no shade, so mid-summer would be hot! Level sites, full hookups, pretty nice.
TravelerHad a wonderful weekend camping trip in the basic loop. Grass well-trimmed, campground pretty clean and full of families. Definitely a lot of kid noise, but I much prefer that to adults drinking into the night. Staff always cheerful and eager to provide a good experience; they do ride around every so often to check in on things. Camp host on site. Some sites certainly better than others; the biggest ones are near the entrance to the basic loop.
Bathrooms older and not spotless, but they stay on top of stocking them. Very well lit at night. Check-in station has patches, t-shirts, and firewood for sale in big bundles for $5. They do cover them when it rains.
There is definitely a friendly community atmosphere, but you can keep to yourself if that's your preference.
There is a nice 3-mile hike that begins at the campground.
ScoutIt's a nice lil place to camp but the camp sites r not that big
Equestrian camping near Festus, Missouri offers access to over 100 miles of maintained trails across multiple parks within a 50-mile radius. The area features an average elevation of 500-700 feet with rolling Ozark foothills and limestone formations. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall provide more moderate conditions for trail riding and camping.
Trail riding at Mark Twain National Forest: The Berryman Trail offers 24 miles of multi-use paths through pine forests. "The 100 foot tall pine trees really make Mark Twain National Forest amazing. Overall, great campground and will be going back soon," notes Jake K. about Berryman Trail & Campgrounds.
Swimming and lake activities: The region has several swimming areas with beach access. "Two clean and well kept swimming areas, great trails, good camp sites, and great bathrooms/showers!" explains Olivia S. about St. Joe State Park Campground. The park offers both natural swimming spots and designated beach areas.
Off-road vehicle trails: Some parks maintain separate trail systems for motorized vehicles. "Good place to ride your off road vehicles. Lots of trails and plenty of different types of trails to try out," says J T. at St. Joe State Park Campground. These trails remain separate from equestrian paths for safety.
Float trips on local rivers: The rivers near Festus provide opportunities for kayaking and tubing. "We paddle boarded and swam in the river. We did not take a float trip," shares Barbie B. about Cherokee Landing, noting the multiple water recreation options available.
Spacious equestrian campsites: The sites designed for horse trailers offer more room than standard spots. "Sites are designed specifically for horse trailers with ample room to back in," according to a review of Greensfelder County Park. These sites typically include parking areas sized for trailers and trucks.
Well-marked trail systems: Riders appreciate clearly marked paths with available maps. "The trails are well marked with maps available," notes a Greensfelder County Park review, making it easier for visitors to navigate without getting lost.
Equestrian facilities: The dedicated equestrian amenities receive positive feedback. "There are tie stalls under a roof and a round pen mounting blocks shower and bathrooms in camp," explains Alicia B. about Greensfelder County Park. These purpose-built facilities enhance the horse camping experience.
Proximity to small towns: Being close to services while still enjoying nature is a plus. "Within 2 mins from town," Natalie F. mentions about Cherokee Landing, which allows for quick supply runs when needed.
Reservation requirements: Many equestrian sites fill quickly during peak season. "Kinda busy maybe make reservations when it's a holiday," advises Alicia B. about Greensfelder County Park. Weekend availability can be limited, especially during spring and fall.
Trail conditions vary seasonally: Be prepared for different terrain based on recent weather. "It had rained the past 2 days and just finished when we arrived, but the ground was not soggy at the campsite or really much on the trail at all," Hannah W. reports about Berryman Trail & Campgrounds.
Campground noise levels: Some locations have higher noise levels than others. "The sites are a bit more snug together than I would prefer," mentions Gonzo A. about St. Francois State Park. Consider this when selecting your camping location.
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies by location. "AT&T and Sprint have only enough service to make calls at the sites," notes Jake K. about Berryman Trail & Campgrounds. Prepare for potential communication limitations.
Look for camps with designated family areas: Some resorts separate quiet family areas from louder sections. "Huge campground with a family side and a late night side," Jess Z. explains about Bass' River Resort, providing options based on your preference.
Pack extra towels for water activities: With multiple swimming areas available, having dry towels is essential. "The swimming area is big and has a nice patio for access," Kristine K. mentions about Bass' River Resort. Most water areas lack changing facilities.
Check playground availability: Not all campgrounds offer play structures. "No playground and the roads are loose gravel so my 3 year old couldn't ride her bike," reports Megan L. about Bass' River Resort, highlighting the importance of researching child-friendly amenities.
Consider cabins for mixed-comfort groups: Some family members might prefer more amenities. "We rented the large cabin, very nice space, great views," shares Lindsey C. about Bass' River Resort. Cabins can be a good compromise for multi-generational trips.
Site size restrictions: Many parks have limits on RV length and width. "Only sites 20-29 have electric and 28 can't be reserved," explains Matthew H. about Greensfelder County Park. He adds that "Most sites are great for trailers 26' or less and 1 slide."
Hookup variations: Electric capacity differs between parks and sites. "No 50 amps, no water at sites," notes Matthew H. about Greensfelder County Park, emphasizing the need to check specific amenities before booking.
Backing challenges: Some campgrounds present difficult angles for larger rigs. "Tight spots and harsh back up angles," reports Matthew H. about Randolph County State Recreation Area, suggesting more experienced drivers may have an advantage.
Gravel pad considerations: The ground surface affects setup and comfort. "The site has a gravel parking area rather than the concrete one at CG#1," Olivia S. observes about St. Joe State Park Campground when comparing campground sections.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Festus, MO?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Festus, MO is St. Francois State Park Campground with a 4-star rating from 31 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Festus, MO?
TheDyrt.com has all 19 equestrian camping locations near Festus, MO, with real photos and reviews from campers.
Keep Exploring
