Equestrian camping opportunities near Highlandville, Missouri center around several natural areas in the Ozark region. The terrain features limestone karst topography with elevations ranging from 1,100 to 1,400 feet above sea level. Typical summer temperatures reach 85-95°F with winter lows often dropping below freezing, creating seasonal considerations for campers visiting these horse-friendly destinations.
What to do
Trail riding at Busiek State Forest: Access 18 miles of multi-use trails with varied terrain ranging from creek crossings to ridge climbs. "I've been hiking here twice but haven't camped yet. The trails and the river make for some great scenery. Be wary of the water level, this can impact any hiking you might be looking to do, so be ready," notes Josh S. from Busiek.
Target shooting at designated ranges: Visit the supervised shooting range at Busiek open Thursday through Monday from 10am-4pm. "Decent place to shoot and walk the pupps," shares Dany H. who appreciates the combination of recreational activities available.
Berry picking at family farms: Harvest seasonal blackberries at farms like B Berry Farms & Co. where campsites are situated near berry fields. According to Nick S., "We enjoyed picking black berries right next to our campsite to have with breakfast in the morning."
Fish for trout at regional parks: Access managed fishing areas at Roaring River State Park with special regulations and seasonal hours. "Roaring River state park has a working trout fish hatchery. You can walk the holding tanks and feed the trout from baby to ready to be released into the river," explains Wendy M.
What campers like
Spacious camping areas: Horse campers appreciate the generous sites at Swan Creek that accommodate large trailers. "Has great dispresed camping, free, creek is accessible, has equestrian area to camp with horses, bout 45 minutes to a hour from Springfield," notes David L. from Swan Creek.
Clear water access points: Find creek-side spots with natural water features. One visitor to Bar M Resort & Campground describes it as "one of the most peaceful and tranquil campsites I ever stayed. Great place for families too. Access to Table Rock, Game Room, Pool and Jacuzzi."
Privacy at select sites: Many horse campers value secluded areas away from crowds. Brandon D. from Bar K Wrangler Camp shares, "This place is great! When we arrived a few people were sitting in the creek so we moved further up stream and found a nice site with easy creek access. We were likely the only group for at least 2 square miles."
Hospitality at smaller campgrounds: Personal touches make some experiences memorable. Laura T. comments about B Berry Farms: "Hosts were awesome! We had a later checkin and they had the campfire with plenty of wood going on our arrival. They also had a small tiki torch burning and a s'mores starter package!"
What you should know
Permit requirements for some areas: Certain conservation areas require advance permits. Anthony S. advises about Busiek: "Camping is by permit only, and permits can not be obtained online or by phone, you have to go in person to the Missouri department of conservation office."
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies dramatically across the region. Patricia S. from Bar K Wrangler Camp notes, "We had great T-Mobile 10 miles south, but it dropped to zero by the time we drove into camp."
Flash flood risk: Creek-side campsites can experience rapid water level changes. N I. warns, "Swan Creek runs along side the camp so you will need to be aware of possible flash floods if you are camped right next to the creek."
Access road conditions: Many horse camps have unpaved approach roads. "There is about a mile of dusty, gravel road that is a little rough," cautions Patricia S. about the final approach to Bar K Wrangler Camp.
Tips for camping with families
Bug preparation essential: Pack appropriate insect repellent for your stay. "Absolutely beautiful hiking trails and amazing off grid camping for family. Just make sure to bring the bug spray and tikis bc there are tons of bugs," advises Linze K. from Rippee Conservation Area.
Structured activities at resort-style options: For families wanting organized recreation, consider camp resorts. Wolfgang M. shares about Yogi Bear Jellystone Park: "The campground is well organized and very clean. Kids have lots of fun activities waiting for them. One great feature of this place, is the fact that they separated the 'Family' and 'Activity' areas from the older folks area."
Creek exploration opportunities: Children enjoy wading in shallow creek areas during summer months. Glen T. notes that Rippee Conservation Area "Has great fishing, nice and peaceful and not well known not many campsites, I believe only four but it does have firepits and grills."
Pack-in water required: Most primitive sites near Highlandville have no potable water. Miranda M. reminds visitors to Bar K Wrangler Camp: "This a horse camp, but there is plenty of space to just pitch a tent if needed. Free site with a beautiful backdrop."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many equestrian-focused campgrounds have uneven terrain. "The one site suitable for large RVs is not very level. We have a 40' Renegade Verona and it took 6 tries to find a place near the hookups where our auto-level would find a good position," warns Angela M. from Big M.
Limited hookup availability: Most horse-focused sites offer minimal RV amenities. Jeremy C. notes about Big M: "Pads are generally good and pretty level. Sites are spaced out nicely. There is a marina here with a restaurant that is open during the season."
Seasonal closures affect amenities: Check operating dates for facilities before arrival. Hayley G. shares, "The marina had a decent restaurant where you could get a beer and dinner. It's not too far of a drive from Roaring River which has lots of hiking trails."
Incline considerations for larger vehicles: Be prepared for challenging approaches at some sites. Hayley G. adds that at Big M, "the drive for the spot was at a pretty decent incline so a camper would definitely need to be leveled."
