The Mark Twain National Forest surrounding Ironton offers numerous dispersed camping options along Forest Service roads, in addition to established sites. Located in the St. Francois Mountains, campers experience elevations ranging from 900-1,700 feet with rocky terrain typical of this ancient mountain range. Weather conditions vary dramatically by season, with winter temperatures often dropping below freezing while summer highs regularly exceed 90°F with significant humidity.
What to do
Kayaking the St. Francis River: The river near Silver Mines provides excellent whitewater opportunities during higher water levels. "Just a short walk down to the beautiful river where you can see the small waterfall and hike upriver to see another," notes Jamie B., who found the campground's secluded sites particularly appealing.
Mountain biking: Shepherd Mountain Bike Park near Ironton offers technical trails for various skill levels. The trails connect with forest roads leading to Bell Mountain Wilderness Area, where one visitor mentioned, "The granite outcroppings give a lot of places to explore and do some scrambling."
Horseback riding: Several campgrounds accommodate equestrian campers, particularly at St. Joe State Park. "The site has a gravel parking area rather than the concrete one at CG#1. It also offers amenities for those with horses," explains Olivia S., who appreciated the trail access directly from her campsite.
Swimming holes: Natural swimming areas form in many creeks during summer. At Marble Creek, one camper stated, "You can spend the day floating in the river or swimming near the little shut-ins watering hole," making it ideal for cooling off during hot weather.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many reviewers specifically mention site separation as a key benefit at Taum Sauk Mountain State Park Campground. One camper observed, "The sites are all secluded from each other by trees and are very beautiful," which provides a more remote camping experience despite being at an established campground.
Wildlife viewing: The area's diverse habitats support abundant wildlife. At Murphy Overlook, one visitor reported, "Saw an adult black bear when we left, only about 0.5 a mile from camp. Ran across the road in front of us," highlighting the importance of proper food storage.
Night sky quality: The minimal light pollution makes stargazing exceptional at more remote sites. A camper at Murphy Overlook noted, "Being that far from civilization, there was no light pollution so seeing the stars and getting some night photos is possible."
Scenic summits: The highest elevations provide panoramic views. A Bell Mountain visitor shared, "After hiking up the loop to the summit of Bell mountain there are a number of 'sites' that have been made. These are all along the rock outcroppings looking out to the east," offering some of the most dramatic landscapes in Missouri.
What you should know
Water availability varies seasonally: Many primitive sites lack reliable water sources. At Bell Mountain Wilderness Area, one backpacker warned, "Other than a nasty looking little pond 1/4 mile south down the trail, there was no filterable water available either, so bring what you'll need."
Road conditions require planning: Forest service roads leading to dispersed camping areas can be challenging. Regarding Murphy Overlook, a camper advised, "This site is accessible by AWD and 4x4 but I would hesitate to attempt it with any other car."
Cell service limitations: Connectivity is unpredictable throughout the region. At Bismark Lake Conservation Area, a visitor reported, "No Verizon signal at camping area but signal down the road," which typifies the spotty coverage.
Reservation requirements vary: While some sites operate first-come, first-served, others require advance booking. A Sam A. Baker visitor suggested, "They do allow advanced reservations and I would definitely recommend them in the summer."
Tips for camping with families
Platform sites for tents: Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park offers platforms that keep tents dry during rain. "The walkin sites are on platforms and are spaced for privacy," noted Chad K., adding that "the setting at this state park is the draw."
Swimming areas with gradual entry: Several locations provide kid-friendly water access. At St. Joe State Park, a camper mentioned, "Two clean and well kept swimming areas, great trails, good camp sites, and great bathrooms/showers!"
Ranger programs: Scheduled activities enhance the experience for children. One visitor at Johnson's Shut-Ins shared, "They also had neat programs going on while we were there including a smores contest and adult scavenger hunt."
Short hiking trails: Several campgrounds feature manageable trails for younger hikers. A visitor to Marble Creek Recreation Area remarked, "This spot was perfect for our group of friends bringing children! Site #20 had a perfect path to the water, and a reasonable creek walk up to a swimming hole."
Tips from RVers
Electrical availability: Big Creek RV Park offers full hookups near several state parks. A reviewer noted, "Spots were clean and easy to back into or pull through. A little too close to one another for my liking, but well put together and level."
Dump station locations: Limited facilities make planning essential. One RVer at Johnson's Shut-Ins appreciated that the park provides "sanitary-dump, sewer-hookups, showers, toilets, trash, water-hookups" despite being in a remote setting.
Seasonal water shutdown: RVers should check utility status before arrival. A visitor to Silver Mines found, "Water wasn't on at the campground yet - and there are not hookups at each campsite," emphasizing the need to bring additional water during certain seasons.
Site levelness: Many reviewers mention the quality of tent and RV pads. At Sam A. Baker, a visitor appreciated that "the campsites are level and well maintained," making setup easier for larger vehicles.
