R
Raymond Z.
Traveler
TravelerJohnson 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.
Cabin Camping near Mark Twain National Forest, MO
39 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Search destinations
Add dates
Several cabin options with full amenities exist throughout the Mark Twain National Forest area of Missouri. Echo Bluff State Park offers modern cabin accommodations with electric hookups and convenient access to showers and toilets. Harmony Hill provides a more rustic cabin experience for those seeking an off-grid setting. Montauk State Park features cabin rentals with electricity, water hookups, and on-site showers. Most cabins include basic furniture, beds, and climate control options. "The cabin, no one knew what was going on either. We finally found out later on and went and checked it out. There were other people's items inside. But noticed maybe it was 2 parts because there was a door in the middle."
Rustic and deluxe cabins are both available, depending on the location. Harveys Circle B Campground and Jack's Fork Canoe Rental and Campground provide riverside cabins with varying levels of amenities. Pet policies differ between locations, with most allowing pets at cabin sites. Reservations are essential, especially during summer months when availability becomes limited. Many cabins remain open year-round, though some operations like Jack's Fork Canoe Rental operate seasonally from April to October. One camper shared: "We stayed in a pull thru site. We didn't have any issues with our stay. The campground was very quiet as there were not many campers."
Most cabins include beds and basic furniture but require visitors to bring their own linens, towels, and toiletries. Cooking facilities vary widely between locations - some cabins offer full kitchens with refrigerators while others provide only basic amenities requiring campers to bring cooking equipment. On-site camp stores at locations like Echo Bluff State Park stock essential items. Several campgrounds have nearby markets for additional supplies. Cabins at Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park and Big Spring Campground offer electricity and water but have more limited amenities, making them suitable for campers seeking a middle ground between tent camping and fully furnished accommodations.
Best Cabin Campgrounds near Mark Twain National Forest (39)
1. Timbuktu Campground — Echo Bluff State Park
"Make sure to book a walk-in campsite if you’re tent camping, otherwise you’ll be in the lot with the RVs (no trees, no privacy etc see first picture)."
"Echo Bluff State Park in Ozark National Scenic Riverways near Eminence, MO is a brand new “old camp”. Opened in 2016 the history is rather interesting."
from $13 - $34 / night
Check Availability2. Harveys Circle B Campground
"Has a nicely stocked store when you come in for anything you might have forgotten. Bathrooms were a little cramped but clean. Clean showers. We stayed in a campsite on the river."
"People were wonderful and you are right next to the water. Pickup for float trips is nice too If the facilities are great it would be five stars."
3. Jacks Fork Canoe Rental and Campground
"Tubes canoes and kayaks available for rent. Friendly staff"
"Dean an Erma are wonderful people that I enjoy talking to and being around. They have totally changed the campground!"
from $10 - $90 / night
4. Broken Arrow Campground
from $10 - $30 / night
Check Availability5. Big Spring Campground — Ozark National Scenic Riverway
"Big Spring is a great, quiet spot to take in some hiking with access to the Current River."
"For Labor Day we stayed at Big Spring State Park CG, near Van Buren, Missouri which is part of the Ozark National Scenic Riverways. "
from $50 / night
Check Availability6. Montauk State Park Campground
"This place is perfect for easy stream and running water fishing. We stayed in loop 3, site 325. We walked over to the "river" about 75 yards from our campsite."
"Each site had a picnic table and fire ring. Nice facilities with flushing toilets and showers. River access and fishing. Very enjoyable family getaway location! Will go again."
from $15 - $52 / night
Check Availability7. Eminence Canoes, Cottages and Camp
"They do have a bathhouse with a half being showers and the other half restrooms. They were clean during our stay. They could use new shower heads."
8. Harmony Hill
"If you're seeking an off-grid camping experience, this is the place for you! Grab you tent, bring your RV, or rent the cabin, then settle in for a night under the stars."
from $55 - $70 / night
Check Availability9. Apple Jacks 21
from $30 - $200 / night
Check Availability10. Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park Campground
"The state park has a very interesting, well done visitor center to learn about the surrounding areas geological history."
"General: Very large state park with six separate loops/areas: Loop 1: 10 Equestrian sites with water and electric (50 amp)
• Loop 2: 20 FHU sites (50 amp)
• Loop 3: 21 Sites with electric only"
from $15 - $80 / night
Check Availability
Drive Time
- 2 hrs 13 min from Springfield, MO
- 2 hrs 23 min from Cape Girardeau, MO
- 2 hrs 34 min from Jonesboro, AR
- 2 hrs 36 min from Jefferson City, MO
Recent Cabin Photos near Mark Twain National Forest
12 Photos of 39 Mark Twain National Forest Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Cabin Reviews near Mark Twain National Forest
221 Reviews of 39 Mark Twain National Forest Campgrounds
Thomas B.
ScoutBroken Arrow Campground
Rough...but convenient to river...and a touch charming.
We stayed at Broken Arrow Campground in Eminence, MO just after peak season. This location was perfect due to the fact we were kayaking about 7 miles of the Jacks Fork River. We started at Alley Springs and pulled out at Broken Arrow Campground.
The campground could use some TLC, but you can quickly tell by the cheaper rates that it is more of a party campground in the summer months. The bathrooms work (bring your own TP), electric and water worked, and the sites have plenty of shade. There are a few walnut trees so be careful where you set your camp in the early fall months.
Is the place a little rough? sure, but it's priced reasonably...and you're camping. We will stay here again.
- LLiz H.Traveler
Timbuktu Campground — Echo Bluff State Park
Timber Creek Resort,Desoto,Mo
The camp sites are full hook up with good size lots. Lots of room for dogs to run. They have hiking trails, lake for paddle boarding or kayaks( free to use on site), mini golf( have to supply own balls they have putters) 9 hole golf course,and Disc golf. The pool and shower house with game rooms are clean and showers open 24/7. Grounds keepers go a fantastic job
Tammy S.
GuideJohnson's Shut-Ins State Park Campground
Loved it!!
Great site. Loved the bike path to the shut-ins. Hosts were awesome. Camp store had lots!!!
William H.ScoutBig Spring Campground — Ozark National Scenic Riverway
Very nice campground
This campground is very well maintained right off of Current River, with all the basic amenities like restrooms and showers. There are non-electric sites that are cheaper or electrical sites that cost a little more. I really enjoyed my visit!
- DDamien E.Traveler
Timbuktu Campground — Echo Bluff State Park
Another Top Notch State Park
As with every Mo State park we've been to so far, it is perfect. Easy access to the river for fishing and swimming. RV sites have electrical and water hookups. Some have sewage as well. Showers available. Even a restaurant at the lodge as well as a store with the basics, and beer!
jeremy D.ScoutBig Rock Candy Mountain Campground and Big Chill Bar & Grill
Love this place
Roger and his wife and there staff are amazing we stay here a couple times a year. One of my favorite spots and the food is to die for.
Shawn S.
LegendMontauk State Park Campground
Springs are beautiful
We didn't camp here, but hiked and drove through the campground. It was small, but decent. Seems pretty quiet. Good for trout fishing in season.
- Shawn S.Legend
Timbuktu Campground — Echo Bluff State Park
It has it all
The campground is very new and modern. Not too many trees though. Great hiking, biking, and boating. There is a hotel, restaurant, and cabins for rent. Food is good at the restaurant. Watch for the wild horses! This is great for any size rig and beautiful walk in tent sites on platforms.
Guide to Mark Twain National Forest
Cabin accommodations near Mark Twain National Forest range from primitive structures to deluxe units with modern amenities. The forest spans approximately 1.5 million acres across southern Missouri, encompassing portions of the Ozark Highlands with elevations ranging from 600 to 1,400 feet. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing while summer brings humid conditions with temperatures regularly exceeding 85°F.
What to do
Trout fishing access: The Current River headwaters at Montauk State Park Campground offer excellent fishing opportunities in stocked waters. "There is some hiking but everyone was fishing, canoeing, or swimming. Good big state park campground... Nice general store too. We didn't take advantage of it, but there were a lot of activities aimed at kids."
Spring exploration: Several notable springs provide cool relief during summer months. The spring at Big Spring Campground creates a dramatic natural feature worth exploring. "The spring was beautiful and the campsites and amenities were very well kept. Big Spring is a great, quiet spot to take in some hiking with access to the Current River."
River activities: Multiple campgrounds offer river access for swimming, tubing and floating. "A beautiful riverfront campground on the Jack's Fork River. Very accommodating campground. Has a nicely stocked store when you come in for anything you might have forgotten."
What campers like
Cabin comfort levels: Echo Bluff State Park receives consistently high marks for its modern accommodations. "This place literally has everything you can want from walk in tent sites to an entire lodge with all the amenities. Campsites are all well manicured and offer everything from basic sites to full RV hook ups."
Riverside locations: Cabins positioned along the Jack's Fork River provide direct water access. "We stayed in our RV on a spot with river view. Was really nice! They have floating outfitter to rent or they will but your own boat in."
Peaceful settings: The quiet atmosphere of many locations creates a relaxing experience. "Very nice place to stay riverside. Great Price. Tubes canoes and kayaks available for rent. Friendly staff."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Demand for cabins often exceeds supply, especially at popular locations like Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park. "Managed to get the most secluded spot in the campground which is hard to do considering that you usually need to book months in advance."
Amenity variations: Bathroom and shower facilities vary widely between campgrounds. "Bathrooms were a little cramped but clean. Clean showers. If the facilities are great it would be five stars. They were not bad, but a little dated and not well set up for camper showers."
Seasonal considerations: Some campgrounds operate with limited services during off-peak times. "Perfect in the off season. People were wonderful and you are right next to the water. Pickup for float trips is nice too."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Harveys Circle B Campground offers designated swimming areas suitable for children. "Super clean campground. Great swim area. They have floating outfitter to rent or they will but your own boat in."
Educational opportunities: Many campgrounds offer ranger-led programs during summer months. "They also had neat programs going on while we were there including a smores contest and adult scavenger hunt."
Cabin proximity: Consider the location of your cabin relative to activities. "Our family did camp on Mother's Day on site 418, in loop 4. I would not recommend this site because you only have a small space between you and your neighbors."
Tips from RVers
Campsite size considerations: Some RV sites offer more privacy than others. "This campground felt very sterile. You are not sheltered at all by the forest trees. The area the campground is located in is spectacular. Worth staying in the area."
Utility connections: Electrical service varies between campgrounds, so verify what's available before booking. "The campground offers 29 electric sites and many more with level pads, picnic tables, lanterns hooks, and fire pits. Loop 200 offers a restroom with flush toilets. Hot showers are less than 10 minute walk."
Off-grid options: Harmony Hill provides a more rustic experience for those seeking seclusion. "If you're seeking an off-grid camping experience, this is the place for you! Grab you tent, bring your RV, or rent the cabin, then settle in for a night under the stars."
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there cabins for rent in Mark Twain National Forest?
Are there cabins for rent in Mark Twain National Forest?
Yes, cabins are available for rent in and around Mark Twain National Forest. While the Forest Service itself offers limited cabin options, several private campgrounds near forest boundaries provide cabin rentals. Twin Rivers Landing offers camping cabins that are popular with visitors exploring the forest, particularly those floating the Black River. These cabins provide a simpler alternative to tent camping while still allowing you to enjoy the natural surroundings. For those seeking more options, nearby state parks also offer cabin accommodations.
What amenities are available at Mark Twain National Forest cabin sites?
What amenities are available at Mark Twain National Forest cabin sites?
Amenities at Mark Twain National Forest cabin sites vary widely depending on location. Most basic cabins offer beds, picnic tables, fire rings, and lantern hooks. More developed sites near Big Spring Campground provide access to flush toilets, hot showers within walking distance, and drinking water. Some private campgrounds near forest boundaries, like Bearcat Getaway, offer additional amenities such as small stores, running water, decent bathrooms with hot showers, and playgrounds. Most cabin sites provide access to outdoor recreation opportunities like hiking trails, fishing spots, and river access points.
What types of cabin and glamping accommodations are available in Mark Twain National Forest?
What types of cabin and glamping accommodations are available in Mark Twain National Forest?
The Mark Twain National Forest region offers diverse cabin and glamping options. Harmony Hill provides an off-grid cabin experience perfect for those seeking a more rustic stay while still having shelter. For glamping enthusiasts, Echo Bluff State Park offers upscale accommodations near the forest boundaries. The options range from basic camping cabins with minimal amenities to more luxurious cabins with electricity and other comforts. These varied accommodations allow visitors to choose their preferred balance between wilderness immersion and modern conveniences.
How do Mark Twain National Forest cabins compare to Mark Twain State Park cabins?
How do Mark Twain National Forest cabins compare to Mark Twain State Park cabins?
Mark Twain National Forest cabins tend to be more rustic and primitive compared to Mark Twain State Park cabins. National Forest cabins typically offer basic shelter with minimal amenities, focusing on the wilderness experience. In contrast, state park cabins, like those at Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park, generally provide more amenities including electricity, running water, and sometimes full bathrooms. State park cabins are often more family-friendly with better accessibility, while National Forest options appeal to those seeking a more remote, back-to-nature experience. Reservation systems also differ, with state park cabins typically being easier to reserve online.
Keep Exploring