Top Tent Camping near Franklin, MO
Searching for the perfect place to pitch your tent near Franklin? Find the best tent camping sites near Franklin. Search nearby tent campsites or find top-rated spots from other campers.
Best Tent Sites Near Franklin, MO (12)
1. Rock Bridge Memorial State Park - Educational Scout Camps
5 Reviews•6 Photos•40 SavesJust minutes from Columbia, Rock Bridge Memorial State Park gives visitors the chance to scramble, hike and bicycle through a scenic environment – and lets them peek into Missouri’s underworld. The park contains some of the most popular hiking trails in the state and also offers solitude while hiking in the Gans Creek Wild Area. Visitors can also see a large cave system with its rock bridge, sinkholes, a spring and underground stream at the Devil's Icebox. You can explore Connor's Cave in the light of the opening for a taste of the underground world. Non-profit, educational or Scout groups can take advantage of the special-use area for overnight primitive camping. It features two fire rings, a vault toilet and several picnic tables. There is no water or electricity. The cost is $2 per person, per night. Reservations are required. For more information, call 573-449-7402.
- Fires
- Reservable
- Tents
- Picnic Table
- Toilets
3. Rudolf Bennitt Conservation Area
1 Review•5 Photos•6 SavesVisit the Missouri Department of Conservation's website for more information.
- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Equestrian
- Dispersed
- Toilets
4. Harriman Hill Access
1 Review•7 SavesVisit the Missouri Department of Conservation's website for more information.
- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Toilets
5. Dry Fork Recreation Area
3 Reviews•10 Photos•84 SavesDry Fork Recreation Area, a campground and picnic area located at the equestrian trailhead of the 36-mile Cedar Creek Trail. This area, located in central Missouri near Fulton serves recreationists with or without horses. This campground is situated in a quiet mostly oak/cedar forest. It is comprised of 8 single primitive campsites that can accommodate RVs up to 30 feet in length, each with table, fire ring, and lantern post. Other amenities include drinking water, vault toilets, and hitching rails. There is a picnic area across the road with picnic tables that can accommodate small groups. There are currently no camping fees, but donations are encouraged. A printable brochure is available.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- ADA Access
- Tents
- Trash
6. Scrivner Road Conservation Area
1 Review•20 Photos•38 SavesVisit the Missouri Department of Conservation's website for more information.
- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Equestrian
- Dispersed
- Toilets
7. Slate and Wild Roses
1 Review•32 Photos•25 SavesHello there! We (Christina & Brian) are excited to share our 80 acres with you! At the moment we offer only dispersed camping. We want to keep it as "Organic" as possible! So, there will only be 1 main gravel road, that is mostly covered in gravel at the moment. NO concrete or asphalt areas. Heavy rains will in-hinder on how far you can travel in. Either way, we can assist you, unless you are an RV. If you like, we have a large metal wagon that you can hand pull or pull by our truck. You are welcome to bring your UTV, but only to move your equipment and guests back and forth to our site or your vehicle. We are willing to show you around before you set up camp. If you are coming in at dark, we can suggest a campsite, then you can move in the daylight if you like. FIREWOOD: We have more than you can handle as this land has been harvested for timber prior to our purchase. We also encourage you to take some as long you use it up while in Missouri. More info at website DontMoveFirewood dot org We do NOT have amenities on site as of yet. We will provide bottled water at no cost. We highly encourage that you unplug while you are here, but not required. We do want you to have your phone with you for safety and capturing moments while you are here. We do have cell service here! We are close to many places: \* 1/2 mile to Casey's General Store \* Mark Twain State Park: 30 min \* Long Branch State Park: 40 min \* Thomas Hill Reservoir: 40 min \* Finger Lakes State Park OHV/ motorcross: 40 min \* Amish Community (Clark): 30 min \* Casey's Gas Station: 3 min \* Dollar General: 4 min \* Walmart Supercenter: 17 min If you are bold and want to enjoy nature nudist style, that is welcomed, but ONLY at your campsite and maybe a larger area for an additional fee once you arrive. This place is NOT a nudist camp, but it is private enough that you can be comfortable in your area. We thank you for taking the time to read our post. If you have any questions, feel free to get hold of us at anytime.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Tents
- Group
$25 - $30 / night
8. Little Lost Creek Conservation Area
1 Review•7 Photos•53 SavesLittle Lost Creek is a partially spring-fed Ozark stream, characterized by clear water and a rocky stream bed. Campers are limited to 14 consecutive days in a 30-day period. Groups of more than 10 campers need a special-use permit.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Dispersed
- Picnic Table
9. Tri-City Community Lake
Be the first to review!•1 SaveVisit the Missouri Department of Conservation's website for more information.
- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Toilets
10. Pikes Camp
1 Review•8 Photos•50 SavesVisit the Missouri Department of Conservation's website for more information.
- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Group
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
Showing results 1-10 of 12 campgrounds
Recent Tent Reviews In Franklin
179 Reviews of 12 Franklin Campgrounds
Benjamin R.
ScoutFranklin Island
Franklin island
Great quite and secluded camp sigh. But can muddy due to sessional flooding
Sammy P.Scout
Mussel Fork Conservation Area
Overnight stop
Had a great stealth camping experience here. Road was gravelled all the way down and opened up to a big gravel lot. I could tell there were a few other paths I could take but the grass was a little overgrown and it was already dark out, so I just car camped in the gravel lot. Had no issues and didn’t see or hear anyone else!
Julia V.
Guide
Finger Lakes State Park
Had everything we needed
Basic tent site, potable water was right near our site. Bathrooms were clean. There were some families staying nearby but overall was a quiet stay.
- JJessica H.Scout
Roberts Bluff Access
Great Overnight Spot
Great stop 5 minutes off of I-70! The site has three camp sites available with car pull ins and fire rings. Lots of mosquitoes due to the site being right on the water. Also two cats hang out around the site. No bathroom we could find.
MickandKarla W.
Legend
Cottonwoods RV Park & Campground
Very Nice Campground
Check-in was quick and easy and we proceeded to pull through site 83 with FHUs. The gravel pad was very long and we had plenty of room for our 40’ rig and F450. The utilities were in the middle of the pad and water pressure was decent at about 40 psi. As we were on the end of a row, we had a lot of front yard space. The sites here are very close together, but long-term guests kept their sites nice and well organized, and overall this CG was very clean. There are mature trees so satellite placement could be challenging. We were able to place our Starlink in the yard area for a good shot to the north sky. We got 4 bars on Verizon and their WiFi worked well for a campground of this size. At the office, they have a nice store and gift shop with one of the best selections of camping shirts etc. that we have seen.
Bobby J.
RangerRoberts Bluff Access
Wonderful Peaceful Stay
Only 2 miles off of the highway and is perfect for someone just passing by. I’m on my way from St Louis to Denver and it was perfect for one night. Very quiet but still close enough to hear the hum of the interstate traffic. It looked like there were 3 sites with fire rings and all very nice.
Kaylen M.Scout
Knob Noster State Park
Knob Park
Nice place, but just didn't care for how much the cops drove threw nonstop, we are camping to get away from people and doesn't make me feel at peace wondering why so many cops always drive thru.
Anne R.ScoutLincoln Lake RV Park
Great overnight stop
Beautiful spot on the lake. Clean campground, full hook-ups. Tent and RV friendly. Will stop here again!
- Christian D.Scout
Robert's Bluff
Quiet and Free
Don’t mistake this for the RV hookup site at Roberts Bluff. It’s a bit further down the road and called Roberts Bluff Access. You will eventually see signs for a Conservation site.
There were about 4/5 spots to pull/back into. Its a small space and really close to the river where you can see huge trout and turtles swimming. There is even a boat ramp.
- RRandall J.
TravelerRoberts Bluff Access
Quiet overnight stay
Enjoyed a campfire before a thunderstorm rolled into the area. Ground away from the campsite was a bit muddy and made a mess. No surprises there! Established campfire ring at 2 spots. Another ring farther down in the turnaround beyond the boat launch.
Robin M.TravelerRoberts Bluff Access
Quiet place to fish
Small, quiet and out of the way. A few spots for camping. No restrooms, electricity or running water.
Chloe D.Scout
Arrow Rock State Historic Site
Peaceful and clean
Stayed here overnight and the camphor was very friendly and helped us out. Bathrooms and showers were open, super clean. Peaceful and would definitely stay again to venture into the town
- DDavid P.Scout
Stump Island Park
Full hookups, but no showers or bathroom
If your camper has everything you need, it's a good campground. The website says it's 50 amp only, but it has 30 too. When we stayed there in March 2024, the shower/bathroom was locked. No park management came by our site, and when you call to get information, you get city hall telling you you need to call some other number...that they didn't have. So, everything's up to you.
Nate R.GuideRoberts Bluff Access
Nice place next to a shallow river.
We liked this place. It was a good place for an overnight camp on our travels. No restroom that we could find. No water or power. Camp is free. It has an old boat ramp so you can get down the the river easier, but water was way too low for a boat when I was there in September of 2023. Down a gravel road a few minutes off the highway in some corn field area. There are only a handful of spaces on the grass. So hopefully you get one or someone is willing to share. We had the place to ourselves.
- DDaniel C.Scout
Robert's Bluff
Awesome spot for getting in late
Great spot on my road trip west! Put in some miles and didn’t get in until about 2am and this was easy to find and great spots away from the highway but also didn’t have to trek far away
- BBobbie C.Traveler
Arrow Rock State Historic Site
Quiet for Labor Day Weekend
Park was full. We could only book a basic site (no hook-ups) through the website but the camp host easily upgraded us to a vacant electric site. Great park to bring your dogs! The walk or drive to the historic town literally park of the park was a surprise with a couple of hiking paths making each trip different from the first.
- RRichard M.Scout
Robert's Bluff
Good for over night
Decided to take my time heading from Southern WA to Southern IN and this is the best dispersed camping I’ve seen on this trip. I’ll definitely stop here again if I’m ever heading down I-70, and hopefully I’ll have my RV with me.
- BBrianne G.Traveler
Harriman Hill Access
Drug Dealer Area
Not bad camp spots here, but there are a lot of drug deals going on here. Don't feel very safe at all. Sept 2023. Update... so I woke up to find out that the other campers we saw were actually homeless people. They're were people in the bathroom strung out on something also. Don't camp here!
John J.ScoutMissouri State Fair RV Park
Worst ever in my opinion
The security guy will just open the women bathroom door to yell at females instead of waiting at the camp site when there is an issue . Really really creepy
Joe G.TravelerArrow Rock State Historic Site
Nice camp site.
Very nice, clean and organized campsite. Sites are spaced further apart for great privacy. Host was pleasant and very friendly. Nice to see him driving through the site checking up on things.
- DDaniela E.Scout
Robert's Bluff
Quiet and nice place
Nice free camping to overnight if you are travelling on your RV, close to the highway but without noise. No toillets. Verizon signal works good.
Adam W.ScoutCottonwoods RV Park & Campground
Disappointing Experience at Cottonwoods RV Resort: Deceptive and Rude
My recent encounter with Cottonwoods RV Resort has left me utterly disappointed and disgusted, as their service was marred by deceptive policies, unprofessional behavior and childish behavior
It is disheartening to witness a company that prioritizes playing games and leaning on diplomatic responses over addressing the reality of their actions. From the outset, their reservation process raised concerns with their non-industry standard policy of requiring a 10-day notice for cancellations.
This policy, as I soon discovered, served as a warning sign of their intentions to hold onto customers' money while offering limited options for resolution. It became evident that their primary objective was not to provide a fair and transparent service but rather to maximize their own gains at the expense of customer satisfaction.
Adding insult to injury, when my wife attempted to discuss our concerns with their staff, they not only exhibited unprofessional behavior but also acted defensively, as if they were being attacked. Despite my wife maintaining her composure(while slightly elevating the pitch of her voice, but never yelling or personally attacking the person on the phone), they manipulated the situation by leaning on diplomatic responses that failed to address the reality of their actions. This tactic of deflecting and avoiding accountability only further erodes trust and demonstrates a lack of integrity on their part. It's truly sad to see this behavior come from a"business".
When I personally reached out to express my frustration(and also notify that I will post my factual experiences online), the"manager" absurdly claimed that my communication was threatening merely because I suggested the possibility of visiting their premises to discuss the matter in person. This response showcased a lack of professionalism and an unwillingness to engage in mature dialogue.
The"manager's" attempts to justify their cancellation policy under the guise of protecting customers are nothing more than smoke and mirrors. By allowing customers to reschedule their reservations while vehemently refusing any possibility of cancellation, they revealed their true motive: to retain customers' funds while offering a hollow option for rebooking. This self-serving approach contradicts their claims of protecting customers' interests and exposes their disregard for providing a genuinely satisfactory experience.
What troubles me even more is the realization that my experience is not an isolated incident. Other reviewers have expressed similar encounters, outlining the same deceptive policies, unprofessional behavior, and manipulative tactics employed by Cottonwoods RV Resort
It is disheartening to see a pattern of behavior that consistently prioritizes the company's interests over the well-being and satisfaction of their customers. In their attempts to deflect accountability, the company may try to argue that we were rude or difficult to deal with. However, it is essential to clarify that we were hung up on before any reasonable customer service was provided. When my wife, understandably exasperated, questioned whether an exception could be made in the event of a death in the family, their response was shockingly callous. It became evident that the company's priorities lay solely in financial matters, as they confirmed their lack of concern for any circumstances beyond securing their own profits. I fully anticipate their rebuttal to my reviews to show how holy they are, but again, a diplomatic response to smooth over their reviews and make them always look right.
What a terrible way to do business. If you look at the reviews left below, all are refuted to make the campsite look perfect while neglecting to remember they are in the customer service business.
In conclusion, our unfortunate experience with Cottonwoods RV Resort was tainted by their deceptive policies, unprofessional and childish behavior. Their inclination to play games, lean on diplomatic responses, and avoid taking responsibility for their actions only served to exacerbate my disappointment. I strongly advise prospective customers to carefully consider the consistent feedback provided by other reviewers and approach this establishment with caution. It is regrettable that a company entrusted with providing enjoyable experiences would prioritize such practices, leaving customers feeling frustrated and undervalued.
Here's a list of reviews you should take into consideration:- https://www.yelp.com/biz/cottonwoods-rv-park-columbia?hrid=VEyZyAFwGWP1jVoM1e8Ecw- Terri G- Kicked out for using a generator because of an issue with their power cord- https://www.yelp.com/biz/cottonwoods-rv-park-columbia?hrid=KQVPvdggSdgW16By2HS\_4g- Examples of lying to customers, kicking them out when there is room- https://www.yelp.com/biz/cottonwoods-rv-park-columbia?hrid=KN7D9ews6MEGzIdaT2fWnA- Bad experience- https://www.yelp.com/biz/cottonwoods-rv-park-columbia?hrid=\_NeYWolU-KZYvJQqbSM7eg- Indicating a good experience unitl they get mad with you then they call the police and get defensive- what a great place to stay!- https://www.roverpass.com/c/cottonwoods-rv-park-columbia-mo/- Trying to kick out people who are on Cancer treatments, again they reply to everything thats negative with a rebuttal that frames them as perfect-"Surprised they didn't charge us for breathing..."
- BBlake M.Guide
Hanson Hills Campground
Fun night!
Very relaxed place. Kinda drive in and park anywhere you see a firepit. We had a rooftop tent on the truck and a tent. We camped near the smaller pond. The spot was fine and there wasn’t a ton of tent campers so we had the place to ourselves. The portapotties were gnarly but the toilets/showers behind the office were clean and had hot water. Staff was friendly when we checked in and we bought an armfull of fire wood and they even dropped it off where we parked in their sidebyside but it was damp so we had to scavage some smaller sticks to get the fire hot enough to self sustain. There was a lot of burned cans and some trash in our fire pit when we showed up so we threw it all away before we started our fire. Would stay again but it definitely isn’t a 5 star clean place. Think Ruth from Ozark show.
Jon B.GuideArrow Rock State Historic Site
Great Basic Campsites
The largest camp area of Arrow Rock is definitely geared towards RVs, but there is a "basic loop" with twelve basic campsites for tent camping. There is a bathroom/shower house very close to the basic loop and the basic loop is well away from the RV area. Right up the road is Big Soldier Lake where you can fish as well. The camp host was helpful in providing firewood and was very attentive of the sites. The campsites are a bit crowded in with each other as there are 12 in the small basic loop, but a few campsites at the back end of the loop provide a lot of area to stretch and spread out into.
- JJames M.Traveler
Binder Park Campground
Great little muni!
Great campground with electric and water just minutes west of downtown Jefferson City. No cable or wifi but good tv reception. Although too cold to use, the picnic tables have a pavilion style roof over them at each site! Only downside is that they have only 17 sites and several have seasonals on them. Hosts are good people and easy to speak with, providing much information regarding their community.
- RRobert R.Guide
Finger Lakes State Park
Nice Place!
I've passed through Missouri numerous times, and their parks are always top notch. Clean and well maintained. As with most "green" places in the spring and summer, the ticks are outrageous. This time was no exception, use spray to keep the buggers off!
This one was easy in/out, plenty of room between campsites. Most sites looked level, but some are a bit wacky. We had a wacky one, and the host was nice, and quick to reposition us to a better spot.
- JessScout
Rock Bridge Memorial State Park - Educational Scout Camps
Beautiful park, however, camping is not allowed
I hike here frequently and love this park, however, camping is not allowed
Guide to Franklin
Camping near Franklin, Missouri, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to relax or a place to explore, there are several campgrounds that cater to different needs.
What to do:
- Fishing and boating: Many campers enjoy fishing and boating on the Missouri River. One visitor at Cooper’s Landing Campgrounds and Marina mentioned, "You may get to see a paddleboat cruising the river," highlighting the scenic views and activities available.
- Hiking: Trails are abundant in the area. A reviewer at Annie and Abel Van Meter State Park Campground noted, "I hiked on most of the trails in one day," showcasing the park's accessibility and variety.
- Live music and events: Campgrounds like Cooper’s Landing often host live music and events, making it a lively spot for socializing. One camper shared, "They had beer, food trucks, and music," which adds to the fun atmosphere.
What campers like:
- Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Arrow Rock State Historic Site Campground said, "Bathrooms and showers were open, super clean," which is a big plus for many.
- Spacious sites: Many campgrounds offer plenty of space between sites. A reviewer at Finger Lakes State Park Campground mentioned, "Most sites looked level, but some are a bit wacky," indicating that while some sites may need adjustments, overall, there's room to breathe.
- Friendly hosts: Campground hosts often receive praise for their helpfulness. One camper at Cottonwoods RV Park & Campground noted, "The staff is friendly and the campground looks like someone spent hours manicuring the park."
What you should know:
- Bug spray is a must: Campers often mention the presence of ticks and mosquitoes, especially in warmer months. A visitor at Annie and Abel Van Meter State Park Campground advised, "Bring plenty of bug spray," to keep those pesky bugs at bay.
- Limited amenities at some sites: Not all campgrounds have full hookups or amenities. A camper at Roberts Bluff Access pointed out, "No restroom that we could find," so be prepared for more rustic conditions.
- Reservations may be needed: Some campgrounds fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. A reviewer at Cottonwoods RV Park & Campground mentioned, "Check-in was quick and easy," but it's wise to book ahead.
Tips for camping with families:
- Choose family-friendly sites: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and activities for kids. A visitor at Annie and Abel Van Meter State Park Campground noted, "It had a nice playground for small kids," making it a great choice for families.
- Plan for meals: Some campgrounds have markets or stores nearby. A camper at Cottonwoods RV Park & Campground mentioned, "They have a nice store and gift shop," which can be handy for snacks and supplies.
- Engage in outdoor activities: Encourage kids to explore nature. A reviewer at Finger Lakes State Park Campground said, "This looks to be a good place for families to fish, ride mountain bikes, and enjoy the ATV trails," providing plenty of options for family fun.
Tips from RVers:
- Check site sizes: RVers should pay attention to site sizes and accessibility. A camper at Cottonwoods RV Park & Campground mentioned, "The utilities were in the middle of the pad," which can affect setup.
- Be prepared for gravel roads: Some campgrounds have gravel access roads. A reviewer at Cedar Creek Resort & RV Park noted, "The gravel road all the way in... will get a bit dusty," so keep that in mind when packing.
- Look for WiFi availability: Many RVers appreciate having internet access. A visitor at Cottonwoods RV Park & Campground shared, "We got 4 bars on Verizon and their WiFi worked well," making it easier to stay connected.
Camping around Franklin, MO, offers a variety of experiences, from family-friendly activities to peaceful retreats. Whether you're in a tent or an RV, there's something for everyone to enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Franklin, MO?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Franklin, MO is Rock Bridge Memorial State Park - Educational Scout Camps with a 3.6-star rating from 5 reviews.
What is the best site to find tent camping near Franklin, MO?
TheDyrt.com has all 12 tent camping locations near Franklin, MO, with real photos and reviews from campers.