Cabin camping near Houston, Missouri offers lodging options nestled within the Ozark region at 1,100 feet elevation. Several campgrounds provide year-round accommodations within a 45-minute drive of Houston, ranging from rustic wood structures to fully-equipped cabins with modern amenities. Water access features prominently across properties, with many cabins situated near the Current River, Gasconade River, or spring-fed creeks.
What to do
Trout fishing access: Montauk State Park Campground offers premium fishing spots at the headwaters of the Current River. "This is where my love of camping started. I spent many summers as a child camping at Montauk State Park with my grandparents... Montauk State Park is one of the Missouri Conservations four trout parks, and is located at the headwaters of the beautiful Current River," explains Kyle H. Anglers need both a Missouri fishing license and a daily trout tag ($3) to fish within park boundaries.
River activities: The Resort at Boiling Springs provides direct river access for swimming and floating. Campgrounds along the Current River offer tubing, canoeing, and kayaking options with rental services available during summer months. Water temperatures remain cool year-round due to spring-fed sources.
Hiking trails: Explore natural areas with varying difficulty levels near cabin accommodations. At Echo Bluff State Park, trails connect to cabin areas and offer wildlife viewing opportunities. "Was a great park. Staff was super friendly! Very clean. Was able to see wild horses as well," notes Sage W. about the park's natural attractions.
What campers like
Riverside accommodations: Froggys River Resort features cabins with Gasconade River access. "This 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," writes Katie G.
Modern comfort options: Higher-end cabins include kitchenettes, private bathrooms, and climate control. "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," shares Chuck M. about his experience at Froggys River Resort.
Peaceful settings: Big Rock Candy Mountain Campground and Big Chill Bar & Grill offers cabin options with scenic views. "Tent, rv Hookups, cabins, yurt. Pool. Pleasant place for kids and adults. Good restaurant, live entertainment on occasion, views, trails. Great staff," reports J R. The property balances recreational amenities with quiet cabin locations.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Book well in advance for summer weekends and holidays. Popular cabins at Montauk State Park Campground fill months ahead. "Sites do go quickly so you will need to book months in advance," advises Kyle H.
Varying amenity levels: Check specific cabin details before booking. Some properties provide only basic shelter while others include full kitchens, bathrooms, and entertainment options. Cabin conditions and maintenance standards differ significantly between state park and private facilities.
Seasonal considerations: Winter cabin stays require additional planning for heating and water access. Some properties reduce services during off-season months (November-March). Spring and fall offer more moderate temperatures and fewer crowds at most cabin locations.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Pinecrest Campground and Cabins offers family-oriented cabin options with nearby activities. "Can't beat the camping or the service here. Clean shower houses and bathrooms on sight. 10/10 recommend," reports Marc G.
Safety considerations: Rivers in the area can have strong currents, especially after rainfall. Supervise children around water features and check conditions before planning water activities. Most cabin areas include designated fire rings or pits for safety.
Educational opportunities: Montauk State Park features ranger programs and educational sessions during summer months. "If you decide not to fish, there are things to do such as take a tour of the mill when the naturalist does one of their demonstrations, hike the quarter mile trial to the springs (one of my son's favorites, he likes to search for the water bubbling out of the ground)," Kyle H. recommends.
Tips from RVers
Parking access: Larger cabin properties provide adequate parking for vehicles and trailers. Laura Ingalls Wilder RV Park offers both RV sites and cabin rentals with convenient access. "Great pull through site. Good spaces between campers on the pull throughs. Clean and quiet. Owners were extremely nice," notes Kyle R.
Utilities and hookups: Check whether cabins share bathroom facilities or include private restrooms. "Recently renovated bathrooms that still feel like a campground. We would stay there again," Dave B. mentions about Laura Ingalls Wilder RV Park's facilities.
Off-season advantages: Fall and spring seasons offer reduced rates and fewer crowds at most cabin properties. Shoulder season visitors often report more personalized service and better availability for prime cabin locations. Winter cabin stays may require additional planning for heating and access.
