Camping near Irondale, MO

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    Campground options near Irondale, Missouri include several established state parks within a short driving distance. St. Francois State Park, St. Joe State Park, and Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park offer both tent and RV camping with various hookup options. Most developed campgrounds in this area provide amenities such as picnic tables, fire rings, and access to restrooms and shower facilities. Cabin accommodations are available at select locations including St. Joe State Park and Johnson's Shut-Ins, providing alternatives for those without camping equipment. The area features a mix of forested campsites and locations near lakes and rivers, with several parks offering beach access and water recreation opportunities.

    Road conditions throughout the region generally allow for standard vehicle access to most campgrounds, though some more remote areas may require higher clearance vehicles. "Other than not having water at my current campsite, this place rocks. Campground number two has very large and relatively private sites. It feels like you're definitely in the woods," noted one visitor about St. Joe State Park. Most established campgrounds remain open year-round, though services may be limited during winter months. Reservations are recommended, particularly during summer weekends and holidays when sites fill quickly. Cell service can be variable throughout the region, with some areas like Bismark Lake Conservation Area having limited or no connectivity. Temperatures in this part of Missouri typically range from hot, humid summers to mild winters, with spring and fall offering the most comfortable camping conditions.

    The campgrounds in this area frequently receive positive reviews for their cleanliness and spacious sites. Several campers mentioned the excellent shower facilities and well-maintained grounds at St. Joe State Park. Many sites feature concrete or gravel pads suitable for both tents and RVs. Off-road vehicle enthusiasts particularly appreciate St. Joe State Park, which offers extensive trail systems for ATVs and dirt bikes. A visitor noted, "Great place to ride utv's, 4 wheelers, even your jeeps. Holiday weekends are a bit crazy but overall it's a pretty good place to ride." Fishing opportunities exist at several locations, with Big River Outdoors Campground receiving praise specifically for its fishing access. For those seeking more primitive experiences, Bismark Lake Conservation Area provides basic amenities with picnic tables at each site but lacks drinking water, electricity, or modern restroom facilities.

    Best Campgrounds near Irondale (157)

      1. St. Francois State Park Campground

      4.0(31)11mi from Irondale109 sitesRVs, Tents, Glamping

      "Not a huge campground but, Its a really simple beautiful place to enjoy Missouri's rolling hills. It is located 1 hour from St. Louis and 30 ish min from Elephant Rock State park."

      "All sites are within reasonable walking distance to the very nice shower house, bathrooms, it even had laundry. All facilities were well maintained and clean. Campground host sells wood and ice."

      from $15 - $27 / night

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      2. St. Joe State Park Campground

      3.8(21)9mi from Irondale93 sitesRVs, Tents, Cabins

      "A great spot with a minute walk to a very well kept shower house and bathroom. We really liked this spot at CG#1."

      "There’s a couple nice lakes with big beaches great swimming for the kids and you can rent a canoe or a kayak to paddle around on the lake."

      from $15 - $52 / night

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      3. Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park Campground

      4.8(57)22mi from Irondale83 sitesRVs, Tents, Cabins

      "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."

      from $15 - $80 / night

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      4. Washington State Park Campground

      4.5(23)17mi from Irondale48 sitesRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "This park is so rich in Missouri and USA history - from buildings costructed by the African-American CCC stonemasons to Native American petroglyphs, there's some fascinating stuff here."

      "Washington State Park is a hidden gem in Missouri! We camped in mid-March 2021 for 7 days and thoroughly enjoyed the area. They had just opened a new shower house which was clean and well kept."

      from $12 - $36 / night

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      5. Taum Sauk Mountain State Park Campground

      4.4(22)18mi from IrondaleTents

      "Also worth noting is that there is water faucet an a drinking fountain next to the restroom bldg, so you can get fresh water if needed."

      "Great for all kinds of camping with beautiful trails and Missouri’s largest waterfall. It is also Missouri’s highest point."

      6. Twin Eagle Lake Estates & Hideout

      4.6(9)11mi from IrondaleRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "There are walking paths all around and a beautiful lake /clubhouse area. Super people running the place and of course other campers were so helpful."

      "Many walking/cart paths. Great shop and fishing!"

      7. Hawn State Park Campground

      4.4(33)24mi from Irondale49 sitesRVs, Tents

      "Hawn State park, located off of highway 32 near St. Genevieve, is a wonderful, must visit in southeast Missouri."

      "There is 3 trails with the longest having two loop options with connectors from the other two trails. There are also walk in sites here and hike in sites. This park will not disappoint."

      from $15 - $29 / night

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      8. Bismark Lake Conservation Area

      4.3(3)7mi from IrondaleRVs, Tents

      "3 camp sites with picnic table and fire pit, vault bathroom within walking distance."

      "Peacefull night of sleep near Shepherd Mountain."

      9. Patt's Place, LLC

      5.0(2)6mi from Irondale11 sitesRVs, Tents, Cabins

      "Owners met us at the entrance and guided us in which was much appreciated. They were extremely nice and helped us get set up since we knew nothing and had just picked up the camper that morning."

      from $50 - $700 / night

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      10. Big River Outdoors Campground

      5.0(1)3mi from IrondaleRVs, Tents

      from $40 - $80 / night

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    Recent Reviews near Irondale, MO

    864 Reviews of 157 Irondale Campgrounds

    • tThe Dyrt Pro User
      Oct. 21, 2026

      34 Bridge Recreation Area

      What a magical surprise! Put in 4lo and cross the river and this place opens up to a magical paradise. Sandy beaches, swimming holes, easy to get beyond site of the hwy. I would have never looked here had it not been for this app, and this site is so good I almost don’t want to post up- but this site worth sharing- There was a little trash but all picked up now, I hope it’s still clean when I for sure come back. ;)

    • SThe Dyrt Pro User
      Oct. 20, 2026

      Meramec State Park Campground

      It appears to be a typical state park. There are lots of old trees. Sites are pretty close together but it is late October so it is not crowded. Each spot has a level gravel spot, electrical hook up (some are 50 and others 30 and ours had a 110 plug in which is what we needed, as well as a picnic table, and a fire pit. There are both pit toilets and a large building that has flush toilets and showers. Everything is old and would benefit from a refresh but it was all clean enough for camping.

    • RThe Dyrt Pro User
      Oct. 18, 2026

      Johnson shut ins

      Full range of sites and multiple hiking trails

      Tent to electric to full hookups available. multiple shower toilet facilities throughout campground. All sites with nice concrete parking pad.

    • Juliana J.The Dyrt Pro User
      Oct. 15, 2026

      Courtois Creek Dispersed

      Flawless Remote Camping

      Yes, the road was a bit bumpy, but worth navigating if you can claim a spot. I scored what I would argue is the second best spot - right on the creek just feet from the flowing water. The spot to the right appeared larger and had a rope for the kids (and cool adults) to utilize for launching into the water. The family occupying this space was in ear shot, but I had total privacy aside from a couple groups checking out the the water during the day. The creek had super cool rocks and the water was perfect for casual wading, but too low to swim in the area I was in. No amenities nearby, so pack in and pack out. I did not have any Verizon coverage, so it was two full days of off-the-grid bliss. I would’ve stayed here a a few more days if I had prepared.

    • DThe Dyrt Pro User
      Sep. 24, 2026

      Red Bluff Campground

      Super clean place

      Super clean campground. The host is really welcoming and answers any questions you have. Some amazing views of you pick the right spot.

    • Bill C.The Dyrt Pro User
      Sep. 18, 2026

      Pin Oak RV Park

      Passing Thru / Overnight

      Stayed overnight, got a great site next to the pond, escorted to site by friendly staff…..

    • AThe Dyrt Pro User
      Sep. 8, 2026

      Big Creek RV Park

      Family Friend Magic

      What a wonderful place to venture to with a young family. The people that run the campground are beyond generous and go above and beyond to make you feel welcome. The farm animals were a huge hit with the kids and they loved petting and feeding them. We will surely be back!

    • Sarah J.The Dyrt Pro User
      Sep. 7, 2026

      Meramec Caverns Natural Campground

      Adequate camp site

      This is definitely more of a “camp” site with bugs and pretty basic needs. When we arrived on Thursday no one was there. Easy to park. When we left Saturday morning of Labor Day, it was a parking lot zoo! Location near caverns is super cool. Bathrooms are sketchy. Super buggy and only a screen door between outside and toilets/showers. It’s a little concerning for a women to shower behind a curtain and only a flimsy screen door to outside. We were backed to river in a 35’ travel trailer no sewer at site and dump station on way out was in passenger side while all dump pipes are on driver side. It worked to go under but interesting to solve.

    Guide to Irondale

    Camping sites near Irondale, Missouri offer a mix of primitive and developed options for outdoor enthusiasts in the eastern Ozark region. The area sits at approximately 900 feet elevation with numerous camping locations scattered throughout the region's rolling hills and river valleys. Temperatures in the area can reach above 90°F in summer months with humidity often exceeding 70%, making spring and fall the preferred seasons for most campers.

    What to Do

    Hiking the highest point: Taum Sauk Mountain State Park provides access to Missouri's highest elevation point with relatively easy hiking access. "The trail to Missouri's highest point is not a long hike, just a little under 2 miles and rated moderate," notes a visitor to Taum Sauk Mountain State Park Campground.

    Water activities: Several parks offer swimming areas for summer cooling. "Two clean and well kept swimming areas, great trails, good camp sites, and great bathrooms/showers!" according to a camper at St. Joe State Park Campground.

    Historical exploration: Visitors can combine camping with learning about regional history. "This park is so rich in Missouri and USA history - from buildings constructed by the African-American CCC stonemasons to Native American petroglyphs, there's some fascinating stuff here," says a reviewer about Washington State Park.

    Fishing access: Lakes and rivers throughout the area provide fishing opportunities year-round. "Great place to camp out under the stars and enjoy nature at its finest," notes a visitor to Big River Outdoors Campground who specifically mentioned the "fantastic" fishing.

    What Campers Like

    Secluded tent sites: Several parks offer more private tent camping areas away from RVs. "Self-service campsites, the closest you can get to backpacking with access to a toilet! The sites are all secluded from each other by trees and are very beautiful," reports a camper at Taum Sauk Mountain.

    Off-road vehicle areas: For motorized recreation enthusiasts, dedicated trails provide extensive options. "Good place to ride your off road vehicles. Lots of trails and plenty of different types of trails to try out. Good clean campground for the whole family to enjoy," states a visitor to St. Joe State Park.

    Fall colors: The region's deciduous forests make autumn a particularly attractive time to visit. "Great time of year to visit! Surrounded by trees changing colors the fall is beautiful here. The campground has several hiking trails and also river access to go canoeing," according to a review of Washington State Park Campground.

    Pine forest camping: Uncommon for Missouri, some areas feature pine forests creating a mountain-like atmosphere. "Nowhere else in the state of Missouri have I been able to camp and feel like I'm in the middle of the Rocky Mountains. The car camping area is nestled in the middle of a pine filled valley," explains a camper at Hawn State Park Campground.

    What You Should Know

    Seasonal water limitations: Some campgrounds turn off water during colder months. "The water was turned off at the time of year we were there and the pit toilets were pretty full, but otherwise still clean," notes a winter visitor to Taum Sauk Mountain State Park.

    Reservation recommendations: The more popular parks require advance planning. "We camped in mid-March 2021 for 7 days and thoroughly enjoyed the area. They had just opened a new shower house which was clean and well kept," says a camper at Washington State Park.

    Cell service variability: Coverage can be spotty throughout the region. "Nice spot. No Verizon signal at camping area but signal down the road," reports a visitor to Bismark Lake Conservation Area.

    Fire restrictions: Rules about campfires vary by location and season. "Pit toilets are located at the entrance to the campground. We didn't see where the water was but it was supposed to be off for the season anyway so we were prepared," notes a November visitor to Taum Sauk Mountain State Park.

    Tips for Camping with Families

    Campground programs: Some parks offer organized activities for children. "They also had neat programs going on while we were there including a smores contest and adult scavenger hunt," mentions a visitor at Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park.

    Swimming options: Parks with water access provide natural cooling opportunities. "Our kids loved climbing all over the shut-ins. We have already planned to return in the summer to swim!" shares a family who camped at Johnson's Shut-Ins in the fall.

    Pack for rocky terrain: The Ozark landscape requires appropriate footwear. "Be sure to wear good hiking shoes!" advises a visitor to Taum Sauk Mountain after experiencing the rocky trails.

    Campsite locations: Some campgrounds have better family-friendly sites than others. "Really nice pull through sites and the kids loved the beach," notes a family who stayed at St. Joe State Park.

    Tips from RVers

    Site surfaces: Campgrounds vary in pad material and leveling. "The site has a gravel parking area rather than the concrete one at CG#1," explains an RVer comparing the two campgrounds at St. Joe State Park.

    Size limitations: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger RVs. "Well graveled spaces, easy water and electric hook-up with both 30 and 50 amp. Owners met us at the entrance and guided us in which was much appreciated," shares a first-time RVer at Patt's Place, LLC.

    Hookup availability: Electric options vary significantly between parks. "We had a spot with electric and no water, water is located close by the vault toilets," reports a camper who stayed at St. Joe State Park Campground 2.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What camping is available near Irondale, MO?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Irondale, MO offers a wide range of camping options, with 157 campgrounds and RV parks near Irondale, MO and 12 free dispersed camping spots.

    Which is the most popular campground near Irondale, MO?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Irondale, MO is St. Francois State Park Campground with a 4-star rating from 31 reviews.

    Where can I find free dispersed camping near Irondale, MO?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 12 free dispersed camping spots near Irondale, MO.

    What parks are near Irondale, MO?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 13 parks near Irondale, MO that allow camping, notably Wappapello Lake and Clearwater Lake.