Camping options near Hillsboro, Missouri consist primarily of established campgrounds within a 30-mile radius. The region features rolling Ozark foothills with elevations ranging from 450 to 1,000 feet, creating varied camping terrain across multiple state parks and private facilities. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-95°F with high humidity, while spring and fall offer milder conditions with temperatures between 55-75°F.
What to do
Cave exploration at Meramec Caverns: This natural campground offers direct access to guided cave tours where visitors can see impressive limestone formations. "Pay the extra for the caves tour! Down the road there's an old iron foundry and a historic cemetery to explore," notes Lynn G. after staying at Meramec Caverns Natural Campground.
River activities on the Meramec: Several campgrounds feature river access for fishing, swimming, and floating. "We kayaked here and it was amazing! Probably the best short trip you could take on a kayak. It started pouring halfway thru our ride, but even still we had a blast!" says Allyson D. about her experience at Washington State Park Campground.
Hiking trails of varying difficulty: Parks offer multiple trail options suitable for different skill levels. "We hiked the 1000 step trail. Most of the campers did fine but those who were not use to hiking did struggle a bit. If you are use to hiking, then this trail should not be any problem for you," shares Scott M. about his group's visit to Washington State Park.
What campers like
Historical significance of the area: Several campgrounds feature sites of historical interest. "Washington State Park is a hidden gem in Missouri! We camped in mid-March 2021 for 7 days and thoroughly enjoyed the area. The prehistoric Petroglyphs nearby are a must see," writes Phil W. about his week-long stay.
Combination of natural features: Many campers value the mix of forest and river access. "The campground is right on the edge of the river and you can get to the trails from your campsite," says Lynn G. about Meramec State Park Campground, adding "Nice hiking trails, all easy/moderate. Rent canoes on site."
Privacy levels vary by campground: Some sites offer more seclusion than others. "We have been to Robertsville to RV camp 3 times in past year... Very wooded small state park. 28 total sites all very shaded," shares Jeff L. about Robertsville State Park Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Campgrounds operate year-round but with varying services. "Loved the campground! However, lesson learned to reserve a campsite further from the road. Great hiking trails. Fishing not so much. Clean vault toilets... overall good stay though," explains David T. about his December camping experience at Washington State Park.
Noise factors at certain locations: Some campgrounds experience noise from nearby highways or attractions. At St. Louis West / Historic Route 66 KOA, one camper noted: "Not to bad. The bathroom down the hill was in dire need of a remodel when we stayed here in 2019 and be prepared for a lot of noise from the busy main road and passing trains in the near distance."
Terrain challenges on some sites: Hillsboro area campgrounds often feature uneven terrain. "This is a nice quiet campground but the lots are pretty uneven so make sure you bring plenty of cribbing," advises Montt B. about Robertsville State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Several campgrounds offer specific features for children. "Great kids activities! Good breakfast and nice store. Really enjoyed our trip bundled with a Six Flags trip," shares Erin P. about her experience at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Resort At Six Flags.
Multiple recreation options in one location: The best places to camp near Hillsboro with families have diverse activities. "There is lots to do at this park. There is a pool, bike rentals, dog park, movie night, basketball court, and more. You can bring your RV, travel trailer, tent camp, or stay in a cabin," explains Crystal H. about Jellystone Park.
Wildlife encounters: Kids often enjoy seeing animals at the campgrounds. "The State Park has a great canopy of trees located next to a stream as a setting for the campground that bounds with wildlife. We saw deer and raccoons here that entered our campsite," reports Tom K. about Meramec Caverns.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for large rigs: RVers should check site specifications before booking. "The sites are level, and there is plenty of shade. (One advantage of being an older park.) But everything is just a little run down. The sites are gravel and close together do not much privacy," notes Joel R. about Pin Oak RV Park.
Hookup availability and limitations: Water and electric access varies between parks. At St. Francois State Park Campground, "This campground offers no-services tent/RV and RV with electrical. The electrical spots are all in cut grass areas, many with great shade trees. The no-service sites are more wooded," reports one camper.
Leveling considerations: Many sites in the Hillsboro region require leveling equipment. "Sites 13-33 are popular open and sunny campsites with nice grassy areas between them. In contrast sites 52-75 are much more treed and have a private feel to them," notes a visitor to Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park, emphasizing the importance of site selection.
