Are you an equestrian lover who prefers a more rustic experience when you visit Fort Leonard Wood? Camping with horses is a beautiful way to experience nature. You're sure to find the perfect site for your Missouri horse camping excursion.
This recreation area is nestled in a hollow along Paddy Creek, a major tributary to the Big Piney River, 1/2 mile away. It provides a picnic area and 23 campsites. It is located adjacent to the east boundary of the Paddy Creek Wilderness and is one of the 3 trailheads for the Big Piney Trail.Paddy Creek flows year-round and is a crystal clear wading creek.
Small family owned and operated campground on the Gasconade River in Richland, Missouri. We built our business in 2019 and officially opened in 2020. Our property consists of 27 acres with 2 stocked ponds. Most of our primitive tent sites are located right on the river bank. If you’re a tent camper but need electric, let us know and we will try to hook you up! Have an RV? No problem. We have back in full hookup (water, electric and sewer) sites or pull through water and electric sites. Water and electric sites are closer to the tents along with the river, but full hookups aren’t far from the water either!
$5 - $100 / night
The park features a primitive group/special-use camping area with a fire ring and restroom facilities. Call the park for information on how to reserve this area.
$250 / night
We offer Gas & Diesel Fuel 24 hrs
There are 44 Sites with 50, 30 & 20 amp power available. To include Water to each Site. There is also 50 Horse Stalls available
We will offer Camping & Convince Store year-round.
Full Hookups including electric and water- $25.00 per night. Primitive Camping - $5.00 per night Horse stalls - $5.00 per night. Showers are also available for our guests. Visitors will have a $2.00 per shower fee. Dump Station available - $5.00 per use.
Contact for Reservations
We are a small family owned and operated campground with 60 campsites. We offer primitive sites, water-electric, and water-elec-sewer. we have 109 covered horse stalls and many trails to ride on our 730 acres with many more trails to ride along the Current river on National Park land. We have two sections to our campground. One for the horse enthusiasts and one for our regular campers. We have fishing, floating, horse back riding and Side by side, jeep, 4 wheeler riding all near by. We are located in the beautiful Ozarks of Missouri.
$15 - $32 / night
There are five primitive camping areas. One is for groups by special use permit only and one is only open October 1 through January 15. The main campground has 51 sites with 26 of them able to accommodate trailers. Camping is all on a first come first served basis. Lead Mine Conservation Area is in northeastern Dallas County, 40 miles south of Lake of the Ozarks, 12 miles north of Bennett Springs, five miles east of Tunas, and 21 miles northeast of Buffalo. The area provides about two miles of Niangua River frontage and has a 3.5-mile stretch of Jakes Creek running through it. The area also has several wildlife watering ponds and seven springs and is composed mainly of forest land. The Conservation Department purchased the original 600 acres for the Lead Mine Conservation Area in 1965 through a University of Missouri land grant. Additional land was acquired with Pittman-Robertson and Dingell-Johnson funding, and the state conservation sales tax, increasing the area to 7,761 acres. During early settlement in the late 1800s and early 1900s, some lead mining did take place near the area. However, evidence of this is hard to find. Many people made their living and raised their families on small farms that now make up Lead Mine Conservation Area. The town of Lead Mine, just one-quarter mile west, is a small community known for its country atmosphere, hand-made goods and horse drawn buggies. Lead Mine Conservation Area contains many excellent examples of dolomite glade communities, oak-hickory uplands, and clear running springs. Deer, turkey, raccoon, squirrel, rabbit, coyote, and many other small animals and birds are commonly seen from the gravel roads and forest trails. Wildlife habitat management includes the creation of watering ponds and manipulation of fields within the forest to provide added food sources. Timber harvesting is also an important element in habitat management. It produces forage and cover for forest wildlife. There are five primitive camping areas. One is for groups by special use permit only and one is only open October 1 through January 15. The main campground has 51 sites with 26 of them able to accommodate trailers. Camping is all on a first come first served basis. This area has an unmanned shooting range. The Range is Closed on Monday's for Maintenance.
Legend
I’ve been coming to the Current River area for over 60 years, before the National Scenic Riverways, when Round Springs, Alley Springs, Big Springs, and Montauk were all state parks. They were great places for camping, swimming in the Current River, and canoeing. This new State Park at Echo Bluff is everything I would eliminate from a campground. Sites are packed close together, everything is concrete. No privacy, no shade , no natural beauty. A big modern lodge, cabins and townhouses. I made reservations for two weeks expecting a state park experience. Sorely disappointed! We left early. The staff mostly didn’t bother us. But we watched the cop that sat along the road partway down a steep hill almost every day and gave out tickets for exceeding the 20 mph limit. Showers/bathrooms were new, but not centrally located. Probably would not go back.
Scout
My family and I come here every year the owners are great. Camp ground is quiet and family friendly.
TravelerLove tent camping! Secluded and shaded. I want a few years back and it was lovely can’t wait to see if there have been updates!
GuideThe manager/owner went above and beyond. We called and said we would be there at around 6:30 (the office closed at 6) and arrived a little later than that. He was waiting for us.
We got a spot down by the river, started a fire, had dinner and went to sleep to the sound of the river running. The place is beautiful and I wish I had more time to spend there. I will definitely be going back when I can spend three of four nights.
TravelerEcho Bluff State Park is nestled in the heart of Missouri's Ozarks. This natural haven offers a perfect retreat for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. The park boasts a stunning blend of scenic beauty, recreational activities, and comfortable amenities.
The first thing that strikes you about Echo Bluff State Park is its breathtaking natural beauty. The towering bluffs, dense forests, and the pristine Sinking Creek that meanders through the park create a picturesque landscape that's a joy to explore. Hiking trails like the Signal Hill Trail and Current River Trail offer hikers stunning vistas and the chance to encounter local wildlife.
For those looking to relax, the park offers a range of options. The modern campground facilities are well-maintained and provide all the comforts of home, while the cozy cabins offer a rustic yet comfortable escape. The Echo Bluff Lodge is a standout feature, offering a beautiful setting for meals and relaxation with its panoramic views of the park.
One of the highlights of Echo Bluff State Park is its accessibility to the Current River. Canoeing, kayaking, and fishing are popular activities, and the park provides easy access to the river. It's also a designated Missouri Trout Park, making it a paradise for anglers.
In conclusion, Echo Bluff State Park is a haven for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful getaway. Its natural beauty, outdoor activities, and comfortable accommodations make it a must-visit destination in Missouri. Whether you're an avid hiker, a water sports enthusiast, or simply looking for a tranquil escape, Echo Bluff has something to offer everyone.
ScoutFirst, the park hosts were so friendly, helpful and hard working. They kept everything spotless! Bathrooms and showers were a 10. Grounds were a 10. Location and surroundings were gorgeous. Sites were spacious and there’s not a “bad” site in the whole park. It was Peaceful and quiet at night. We walked through the walk in tent camping area and it was amazing. Sites were big, private and spread out through the woods with wooden platforms. Path through the area was gravel and very well maintained. The Betty Lea Lodge was close and had an awesome store and gift shop. We will definitely be back!
ScoutGreat place to stay. Easy to get checked in staff is super helpful. Quiet campground not a lot of loud music and people. Other campers are super friendly and nice. Bluffs at at the lodge are amazing to see. Will definitely be coming back!!
ScoutWe have stayed here four or five times now, so clean and the people working are friendly. We have stayed other places and this is by far the most clean and maintained. Highly recommend.
GuideI took the day off on Friday so we could have a full weekend of camping. We originally planned to go to Buffalo River in Arkansas, but there was a lot of rain in the area so we decided to check out Echo Bluff State Park instead.
I’m glad we did! It was beautiful and our campsite 🏕️ was perfect. There was a wooden platform that kept us drier than we might have been when it rained Saturday night and some water got in a few of the seams of our tent 😅
We tried to catch some fish in Sinkin’ Creek Friday and Saturday but no luck. The cool water felt wonderful both days but chasing away the copperheads 🐍 Saturday that were likely scaring away the fish 🐟 was so not fun 😂 neither was finding a tick on my arm but we found it soon enough to get it off without issue. We also successfully avoided all the poison ivy 🌱
Bf made some delicious steaks 🥩(as always 🤤) hot dogs 🌭, sausages and bacon 🥓
I don’t know where we’ll go next but I know it will be just as fun! And despite everything, we plan to return here at some point soon!!!
Also there is WiFi in the rv area and at the lodge. Otherwise absolutely no service for ATT or Verizon and I would imagine several others
TravelerI stayed in the tent camping area. The host was very helpful with everything. I was right next to the river, and the sounds of the water made everything tranquil. There is a ton of space for tents and RVs, and the road in is well paved. In the morning, a bald eagle flew up the river.
Traveler
Great place to camp. Stayed at site 22. Most sites are well shaded and spacious. Good privacy between sites. Parking pads are short and lined with huge boulders. Worked fine for our 16ft TT big rigs probably not so much. Vault toilet clean and stocked. No fee just donations. Dollar General and a gas station located in nearby Roby. No cell service at cg. Had to drive up the hill to get a signal.
TravelerThis great little campground on the Gasconade River was a delight. I had a camper and the full hook up was awesome. They have a cabin, a little retro camper and a large guest house for those who don’t have a camper or want to tent.
Firewood brought to your campsite upon request. Shower house. Open spaces. Katie and her crew are awesome.
Float this great river and end up at your camp. Beautiful river that does not have any jet boats. Make this one of the places to visit for sure.
ScoutWe heard about this amazing park, great camping. We tried to find photos of the tent sites, found a few videos of people showing one, but not camping there. We liked the wood platform so reserved spot 7 for 3 nights. Luckily we brought our own wagon because they weren’t allowing their large wagons to help you carry your gear to the campsite, apparently a COVID protection rule. The campsite No. 7 was at the highest point on a rocky hill to walk up. We only heard about concrete to everything. No. The people catered to at Echo Bluff State Park are the people RVing. The huge concrete area for RVs looked so packed and crowded. It was over 100 degrees down there, 20 less at our campsite. We spent a lot of time down IN the sinking creek. We loved the creek. It was such a great way to cool off and get some Wi-Fi signal. NO wi fi at campsites other than No. 1, very close to the RVs and parking area. The space between campsites was good: although, one night we had problems with people being up late and being loud. The second night was problems with people shining their flashlights into our camp until 3 a.m. it was ridiculous. So we didn’t see any people come by that would enforce the rules at the camps. We will go back the end of July this year, but we know what to ask about and request when we get there this time. We can say the site itself was private feeling. We just didn’t anticipate our far neighbors being so bad.
GuideGreat free campground near the river. Volt toilets, trash cans, and picnic tables. All spots have paved pull-in spots. I'd say max length for rigs are 30 feet. I'd stay here again. They have a camp host but they are no bother.
ScoutWe've been camping here for 3-4years now and we are still amazed at how quiet and secluded it is. We love being able to have an escape from the world and forced to not have our electrons since there is no service. Our first time here we got to experience the amazing raccoons which made for a pretty funny story later. We absolutely love it here.
Traveler
Small town charm and affordable
TravelerThis is really the gem of Missouri state parks. Rv sites are all full 30/50 amp with water and sewer. All spots have plenty of room but are back in. The pads are perfectly level and are concrete. Camp hosts are helpful and kind. The lodge is in walking distance and offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The food is pretty good also! They offer inside dining but the best place to eat and enjoy the outdoors is on their huge deck. Wonderful place all around and Missouri really has done this one the right way!
GuideThere is some good hiking here. There is a dispersed spot and a formal campground. The formal campground is the better spot to stay at
ScoutI spent the weekend here mid September. It was a nice place. Quiet and secluded. On the creek side, every campsite has trails leading to the creek. There is a vault restroom if needed, each site has a paved parking spot big enough for my truck and 25ft camper. I would say it could fit up to a 35ft trailer. There is a picnic table, Shepard's hook, and a fire pit/grate. I really enjoyed my stay here and will be coming back often.
ScoutClose to Route 66, easy turn off …5-6 minutes up the road.
Great service, quiet. By a lovey pond and down a ramp to the river for canoeing or tubing. Nice shower house. Good stay!
TravelerWe called ahead and arrived 45 minutes after their closing time. The gentleman at the office cheerfully guided us to our campsite. It is blissfully quiet. Nothing but icadas, crickets and quiet laughter from the camp next to us.
GuideThis may be one of my favorite campsites!! Our campsite was very private and I appreciated the cart the park supplied to move our gear to the site. We had some skunk visitors overnight. There’s a great River to swim in, phenomenal ranger led programs, a great playground and nice trails. It makes for a great trip but book early because sites fill up.
Scout
Great place to camp out and have a float trip. The next time we go we will be bringing our own grill as they did not have many options on site. The staff was friendly and helpful.
ScoutEasy parking with convenient hookups. Primitive camping would be awesome because your closer to the river.
ScoutSuper friendly people and plenty of things to do!
GuideWe love this campground. The staff is great and the campground is beautiful. It offers direct access to the Niangua River, and it is only a short drive from Bennett Springs State Park, where you can fly fish and pull trout from the river from dawn until dusk.
The float trips on the Niangua are gorgeous. I recommend going on a weekday to avoid the crowds.
Our most recent trip was in the beginning of June. It was a little muddy. Our fall trips to this location were absolutely gorgeous.
TravelerAlway have a fantastic time here- the staff is amazing, the place is great. We return every year and can’t say enough good things about them!!!
Horse camping in Missouri offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure and equestrian-friendly amenities, making it a great choice for riders looking to explore the scenic landscapes of the state.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Fort Leonard Wood, MO?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Fort Leonard Wood, MO is Paddy Creek Recreation Area with a 4.8-star rating from 8 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Fort Leonard Wood, MO?
TheDyrt.com has all 7 equestrian camping locations near Fort Leonard Wood, MO, with real photos and reviews from campers.
