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.
