Bennett Spring State Park offers a variety of cabin accommodations within 15 miles of Lebanon, Missouri. Most cabin units are available year-round, with winter camping options that include heated facilities. Water temperatures in the spring-fed streams remain a consistent 57°F throughout the year, providing reliable trout fishing conditions even during colder months.
What to do
Fishing access points: At Bennett Spring State Park Campground, multiple stream access points accommodate different skill levels. "One aspect of this park that is so appealing is the historical character that came from the Civilian Conservation Corps improvements made back in the 1930's. They built a dam, arched bridge, cabins and shelters, dining lodge, roads, and trails," notes Nancy W.
Hiking trail options: Trail systems vary from easy to challenging terrain with multiple length options. "The park has over twenty miles of hiking trails meandering through its 3,216 acres. Trails range from a leisurely walk along the stream to that of rigorous mountain trails that reward hikers with great picturesque views of the Ozark Mountains," according to a visitor.
Winter activities: Off-season visits offer quieter experiences with fewer crowds. "We stayed in campground one because it is the only one open during the off season. We were surprised when we found that there was Wi-Fi available for free at the campground," shares Nathan P.
What campers like
River access points: Mountain Creek Campground offers direct water entry with shade structures. "There is a great little 'beach' spot along the river so you can play in the water, with umbrellas already put in on the banks for shade," mentions Dasha D.
Cabin privacy options: Cabin layouts and placement vary significantly between properties. "This time wife and I took our small camper just to get away for the weekend. We stayed in campground one because it is the only one open during the off season," reports a winter visitor to Bennett Spring.
Camp stores: Several campgrounds maintain well-stocked stores with essentials beyond basic supplies. "The camp store is amazing. They have a full menu including pizza for those days that you're too tired to cook," notes Jon L. after staying at Hidden Valley Outfitters.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Peak fishing season cabins book 3-6 months in advance, especially for weekend stays. "Reserve early as it fills up fast!" advises Collette about Bennett Spring State Park.
Cabin classification differences: "Cabin" definitions vary widely between properties. "We rented a cabin on line but when get there no cabin, photos did not Mach add," reports Eric S. about one property. Always call to confirm specific amenities before booking.
Bathroom access: Many cabin areas have limited bathroom facilities. "One negative is we only found one toilet for the entire campground. It wasn't a problem at this time because there was hardly anybody there, but I imagine if you wanted to use the toilet during the regular season you would find yourself with a line," notes one visitor.
Seasonal infrastructure: Froggys River Resort and other seasonal properties may have limited facilities during shoulder seasons. "Depending on the time of year, the river can be quite low, so be sure to check the forecast before planning a stay," advises James A.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water features: B Berry Farms & Co. offers unique outdoor recreation beyond water activities. "This place has everything from axe throwing to free coffee and the property is engineered and planned very nicely," shares Joshua P.
Multi-age activities: Look for campgrounds with diverse recreation options. "Great place to take the family. The roads are all paved so it made biking for our kids easy and enjoyable. The campsite was spacious and shaded. The kids loved playing in the creek and hiking the trails," writes Amanda R.
Family cabin conveniences: Many properties offer child-friendly cabin layouts. "We stayed in the quaint little bunkhouse with an air conditioner and all the amenities that we needed - a little frig, toaster oven, microwave, sink, coffee maker with pods, storage the we could use for our things we brought and the bunk beds that held 5 of us," notes Hannah B.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Riverfront Campground and Canoe, RV sites have varying privacy levels. "Level concrete pads on most sites. The sites are fairly large so you're not on top of your neighbor," notes Ken K.
Seasonal availability: Winter RV camping options include limited sites with reliable hookups. "We came to camp, fish, and hike but there is also canoeing, floating, a nature center and museum, trout hatchery, dining facilities, a church, Olympic-size swimming pool, and much more," shares one year-round visitor.
Hookup variations: Electrical service ranges from 20-50 amp across properties. "We stayed for the weekend. Clean. Comfy. Fishing. Couldn't get any better," comments Katie R. about the basic amenities that enhance cabin camping near Lebanon.
