Bill C.
Traveler
TravelerPin Oak RV Park
Passing Thru / Overnight
Stayed overnight, got a great site next to the pond, escorted to site by friendly staff…..
Best Campgrounds in Missouri
Missouri's state parks and recreation areas provide a broad spectrum of cabin camping options for visitors seeking shelter beyond traditional tent and RV sites. Meramec State Park near Sullivan offers cabin accommodations with electric hookups, picnic tables, and showers within a year-round facility rated above 4.3 stars by visitors. Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park in Lesterville similarly features cabin options alongside its popular water features, while Sam A. Baker State Park in Patterson combines cabin lodging with glamping alternatives. Most cabins in Missouri state parks include basic amenities such as electricity, beds, and nearby restroom facilities.
Reservations for Missouri's cabin accommodations are typically required well in advance, especially during summer months and holiday weekends. Many cabins remain open year-round, though amenities and services may be reduced in winter. Water access remains a significant attraction, with many cabins positioned near lakes, rivers or springs. Missouri's varied terrain means cabin locations range from riverside settings to forested hillsides, with some providing easy water access while others offer more secluded experiences. A visitor commented that "Loved the solitude of being by the water. We had another RV next to us for a few days, but with the privacy fence in between you would never know it."
Campers consistently rate cabin accommodations at Bennett Spring State Park and Crystal Springs highly, with multiple reviews mentioning friendly staff and clean facilities. Several visitors highlighted the proximity to water features, with one noting that "There is a little spring onsite and very friendly owners!" Some park cabins provide access to hiking trails, fishing opportunities, and nature centers, enhancing the overall experience. Lake of the Ozarks State Park Campground receives positive reviews for its combination of water recreation and comfortable accommodations. The cabins at Cuivre River State Park near Troy include options for glamping and yurt stays, offering alternatives to traditional cabin camping. While most Missouri cabins provide basic amenities, visitors should verify specific features when booking as amenities vary significantly between locations.
Campground Showdown in Missouri
Compare 2 top campgrounds at a time to find your favorite!
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Round 1 of 5
Best Camping Sites in Missouri (959)
1. Meramec State Park Campground
60 ReviewsStanton, MOWebsite+1 (573) 468-6072$15 - $65 / night
"Miles upon miles of trails. Spacious campground, caves to explore, old time blast furnace to explore, fresh Missouri spring with exceptional fishing. Then theres a general store with a restaurant"
"Growing up near here, this was the state park that my family always went to. Forty some years later, it is still my favorite park in Missouri. I enjoy camping here with my family and friends."
2. Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park Campground
57 ReviewsBlack, MOWebsite+1 (573) 546-2450$15 - $80 / night
"It is located on the Black River, and the water flowing through the shut-ins is crystal clear and cool."
"Johnson Shut-Ins State Park is located on the Black River in Missouri, just south of St. Louis. This makes it a popular location on hot summer days, especially weekends."
3. Table Rock State Park Campground
58 ReviewsHollister, MOWebsite+1 (417) 739-4627$16 - $159 / night
"The campsite was large with an asphalt path and a nice spot for my tent. First weekend in May and the park was pretty much full. My campsite close to the facilities."
"Nice campground with a paved walking/cycling trail from boat docks to the dam. Nice showers, fairly level campsites. Fishing within walking distance."
4. Roaring River State Park Campground
52 ReviewsEagle Rock, MOWebsite+1 (417) 847-2539$16 - $53 / night
"Located in South Missouri it is an easy day trip into Branson Missouri or Eureka Springs Arkansas. Very well located and very well run by the state."
"Campground 1 was tucked up in an inlet that went back into the valley. It dead ends at a wonderful trailhead. The west side on CG#1 is lined by a beautiful creek that runs into the rotating river."
5. Lake of the Ozarks State Park Campground
48 ReviewsKaiser, MOWebsite+1 (573) 348-2694$15 - $55 / night
"Lake of the Ozarks State Park campground is located in Kaiser Missouri about 5 miles down highway 134 off of highway 42. This campground is about 1.5 hour from Columbia and Springfield Missouri."
"We stayed close to the river in the primitive area and the deer were all over. These deer were super friendly and didn't move at all as we walked right past them. "
6. Sam A. Baker State Park Campground
49 ReviewsPatterson, MOWebsite+1 (573) 856-4411$15 - $52 / night
"State Park in Southeast Missouri along Big Creek. Well maintained campsites with electric hook ups. Water and dump stations, but no water hook up sites."
"The state of missouri does an amazing job providing opportunities for families to enjoy the beauty of nature. Nature programs for kids and parents to learn. Well kept facilities."
7. Blue Springs Lake Campground
49 ReviewsBlue Springs, MOWebsite+1 (816) 503-4805$33 - $48 / night
"The sites were well situated such that you felt you had plenty of privacy."
"The original plan was to be in Blue Springs for an outdoor off-road RC event, camping in our pup with a generator at the track."
8. Cuivre River State Park Campground
43 ReviewsTroy, MOWebsite+1 (636) 528-7247$15 - $42 / night
"Our site, though, was the smallest in the loop, tucked away in the weeds, and the only area to pitch our tent was on a slight slope."
"It’s close to our house and there’s always something new to do each time. The bathrooms are well maintained and the campsites are fairly large and provide lots of shade."
9. Bennett Spring State Park Campground
42 ReviewsBennett Springs, MOWebsite+1 (417) 532-4338$15 - $48 / night
"This state park is one worth a stop when near Springfield. I drove north toward this park to enjoy something a bit different and found it to be very peaceful during a weekday. "
"A trout fisher dream, as one of Missouri’s 5 hacherys are here. Fun for this kids to see the amazing amount of fish."
10. Timbuktu Campground — Echo Bluff State Park
41 ReviewsEminence, MOWebsite+1 (573) 751-5211$15 - $39 / night
"This 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."
"Echo 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."
Recent Camping Photos in Missouri
913 Photos of 959 Missouri Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Bucksaw
Ozark Riverfront Campground
St. Louis West / Historic Route 66 KOA
Boiling Springs Campground
Katy Roundhouse
The Riviera RV ResortR
Garrison Canoe Rental and Campground
Blue Spring Backcountry Camping — Ozark National Scenic Riverway
Crystal Springs RV Resort
Hanson Hills CampgroundJ
Bonanza Conservation Area
Bismark Lake Conservation Aread
Recent Reviews in Missouri
3965 Reviews of 959 Missouri Campgrounds
Ali O.
ScoutCedar Ridge Campground—Stockton Lake
This campground is OUTSTANDING
We stayed for a week in campground A. It was the cleanest campground I have ever been to. Dorothy takes great pride in that place and it shows. The restrooms were VERY clean and the showers were great! The area was so quiet and peaceful like camping should be. I will definitely be coming back. Keep up the great work Dorothy! If it weren't for you and taking care of that place I wouldn't want to come back. See you again!
- DDUANE G.Scout
Starlite RV Park
Great place to stop for an over night.
We like traveling highway 36 going and coming from Indiana to Colorado and back. Brandon and Family are great host and will greet you when you arrive. Brandon has been building this campsite for over a year now, and has made it very nice for pull through's. The lots are level and all hook ups are in new condition. Very easy! Have been there twice and will be going back.
- LLiz H.Traveler
Timbuktu Campground — Echo Bluff State Park
Timber Creek Resort,Desoto,Mo
The camp sites are full hook up with good size lots. Lots of room for dogs to run. They have hiking trails, lake for paddle boarding or kayaks( free to use on site), mini golf( have to supply own balls they have putters) 9 hole golf course,and Disc golf. The pool and shower house with game rooms are clean and showers open 24/7. Grounds keepers go a fantastic job
Nicole D.ScoutHickory Ridge Campground
Very sweet
Great place overall. We just needed somewhere over night. Great for Short term or long term. The guys were helpful when we pulled in. Helped us set up.
Connie B.
RangerGraham Cave State Park Campground
Good over night stay
We can rough it. This is a wooded campground with fire pits and worn out wooden picnic tables. I saw outhouses but didn’t look inside. It has electricity and water pumps where you can get water. In the heat all I care about is electricity for air conditioning. It is an old campground in need of TLC. But at $21 for seniors, I can’t complain. We are just passing through
- Cord S.Scout
Kimmys At Caplinger
A jewel!!!!
This place is absolutely incredible. The owners are so kind and hospitable and helpful and accommodating. This place also is absolutely stunningly beautiful. The serene nature, the amenities that the owners have worked hard to put in there, the animals, the kid-friendly atmosphere with the animals and other features, the campsites, the features, and the store.....this whole place is an absolute jewel to the region and the owners are so great! They really have worked hard on this place and still work hard and it shows! The property is growing too! Nearby Caplinger Mills and the nearby Stockton Lake are great! This whole experience was wonderful from the booking, the adjustments I asked for that they helped us with, and the actual camping time. The shower/restrooms are impeccably clean and are so beautiful and well maintained and designed. I'm telling you......every bit of this place is 10 out of 10 out of 10!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Emily B.TravelerBig Lakes Turtle Cove Campground
Primitive at best
The owner was very nice but we weren’t aware of the lack of any sort of bathroom. The lack of shower wasn’t a problem but make sure you have an RV with a bathroom. Tent camping is not recommended here. The campsites were clean and spacious. Mosquitos did come out after dark but it’s by water so we didn’t expect there to not be any bugs.
- jjesse O.Scout
Grand Trace State Forest
Great stay for a peaceful couple days
Have come up here a few times now just to get away for a couple days. Lots of folks come through and use it for an overnight stay or others for turkey hunts during turkey season. You can roam the conservation but don’t plan to fish the ponds, they are terrible. Overall, decent place to just find some peace for a couple days and collect your thoughts.
Guide to Missouri
Camping in Missouri offers a mix of beautiful landscapes, fun activities, and unique experiences. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there's something for everyone.
What to Do
- Hiking and Trails: Many campgrounds, like Lake of the Ozarks State Park Campground, have great hiking trails. One camper mentioned, “Beautiful campgrounds. Hiking trails. Super showers & toilets. Clean. Friendly staff.”
- Fishing: If you enjoy fishing, check out Bennett Spring State Park Campground. A reviewer said, “The Niangua River was gorgeous and so fun to swim in (clear all the way to the bottom).”
- Water Activities: Campgrounds near lakes, like Cooper’s Landing Campgrounds and Marina, are perfect for kayaking and swimming. One visitor noted, “You will have water and electric but no sewer and no dump station on site.”
What Campers Like
- Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review for Maramec Spring Park stated, “Great and clean shower house. Well taken care of.”
- Friendly Staff: Many visitors mention the helpfulness of campground staff. At B Berry Farms & Co., a camper said, “The whole B Berry family are great people. They helped us get in and told us all the fun & exciting things around the farm to do.”
- Scenic Views: Campgrounds like Raccoon Ridge offer stunning views. One camper shared, “Heavy wooded with shared paths to lake or cove. Marina is within 1 mile by water or 15 minutes by car.”
What You Should Know
- Reservation Policies: Some campgrounds have strict cancellation policies. A visitor at Cottonwoods RV Park & Campground expressed frustration, saying, “Their reservation process raised concerns with their non-industry standard policy of requiring a 10-day notice for cancellations.”
- Wildlife: Be prepared for wildlife encounters. A camper at Raccoon Ridge warned, “Keep food and bait inside as raccoons rule at night.”
- Ticks and Bugs: Some areas have ticks, so bring bug spray. A review for Pine Ridge Recreation Area mentioned, “Only bummer was lots of ticks.”
Tips for Camping with Families
- Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with amenities for kids. At Boiling Springs Campground, a camper noted, “This camp area is very clean and family friendly! The river was pretty!”
- Plan for Meals: Bring easy-to-cook meals or snacks. A family at Bennett Spring State Park Campground enjoyed cooking fresh food over the fire.
- Safety First: Always supervise kids near water. A reviewer at Lake of the Ozarks State Park Campground mentioned, “They have both showers and running water restrooms.”
Tips from RVers
- Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Cottonwoods RV Park & Campground said, “The utilities were in the middle of the pad and water pressure was decent.”
- Look for Amenities: Choose campgrounds with electric hookups. A visitor at Cooper’s Landing Campgrounds and Marina appreciated, “The general store has many options including a wide variety of food and drinks.”
- Be Prepared for Crowds: Some campgrounds can get busy, especially on weekends. A reviewer at Pittsburg Area Campground noted, “Really quiet during the week. However, fishing boat traffic increases through the week.”
Camping in Missouri has its perks and quirks, so be ready for a memorable experience!
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any free or low-cost camping options in Missouri state parks?
Are there any free or low-cost camping options in Missouri state parks?
Missouri's state parks and conservation areas offer several budget-friendly camping options. Indian Hills Conservation Area provides low-cost camping with basic amenities amid beautiful scenery. Similarly, Union Ridge Conservation Area offers primitive camping at minimal or no cost. Missouri Conservation Areas generally have fewer amenities but provide affordable options for those comfortable with basic facilities. State parks like Lake of the Ozarks and Long Branch charge standard Missouri State Park rates, which are relatively affordable compared to private campgrounds. For completely free camping, Mark Twain National Forest allows dispersed camping outside designated areas and away from roads, though you'll need to bring all supplies and follow Leave No Trace principles.
What recreational activities are available at Missouri campgrounds?
What recreational activities are available at Missouri campgrounds?
Missouri campgrounds offer diverse recreational activities for all interests. Onondaga Cave State Park Campground features cave tours with impressive lighting displays and river activities perfect for families with children. Long Branch State Park Campground provides swimming beaches, boat ramps, and excellent fishing opportunities. Throughout Missouri's campgrounds, visitors can enjoy hiking trails, wildlife viewing, photography, and stargazing. Water enthusiasts will find swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and fishing at many locations, particularly at Lake of the Ozarks and along the Ozark National Scenic Riverways. Several parks also offer interpretive programs, nature centers, and historical sites from Civilian Conservation Corps construction. Mountain biking trails, horseback riding areas, and bird watching opportunities round out the recreational options.
What are the best campgrounds in Missouri for tent camping?
What are the best campgrounds in Missouri for tent camping?
Missouri offers excellent tent camping options across the state. Marble Creek Rec Area in Mark Twain National Forest provides a natural experience shaped around the creek, with sites that lead to water in every direction. The area offers hiking and dispersed camping options for those seeking solitude. Table Rock State Park Campground features spacious tent sites with asphalt paths and close proximity to facilities. For nature enthusiasts, conservation areas like Indian Hills provide lovely scenery with minimal amenities. Other top tent camping destinations include Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park with its natural water features and Meramec State Park, known for its riverside sites and cave tours.
When is the best season for camping in southern Missouri?
When is the best season for camping in southern Missouri?
The optimal camping season in southern Missouri runs from late spring through early fall, with specific advantages to each period. Table Rock State Park Campground sees high visitation by early May, suggesting spring's popularity. For more solitude, Asher Creek Campground at Lake Wappapello State Park can be nearly empty on weeknights and during off-season periods. Late spring (April-May) offers comfortable temperatures and blooming wildflowers, while fall (September-October) brings colorful foliage and cooler temperatures. Summer provides the fullest access to water activities, though humidity can be high. Winter camping is possible but requires preparation for potential freezing temperatures. Avoid November during deer hunting season if you're not participating.
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