Horse campgrounds near Sullivan, Missouri range from primitive sites to fully developed facilities with electric hookups. These equestrian-friendly areas sit within Mark Twain National Forest at elevations averaging 900 feet above sea level. Most horse trails remain usable March through November, with summer temperatures averaging 75-90°F and relatively high humidity.
What to do
Trail riding on Berryman Trail: The 24-mile loop connects both Berryman Trail Campground and Brazil Creek camping areas, offering multi-use paths suitable for horses, hikers, and mountain bikers. "This is a great free campground, no water or anything, just a toilet house. Campground has 8 spots... There was a trail leading down to a pond at the site across from us," reports Tommy S.
Swimming in creek access points: Cool off in various waterways after trail riding. At Ozark Outdoors-Riverfront Resort, you can access both swimming beaches and river spots. "The family beach was really nice but all the dogs kept trying to pee on all our stuff," notes Megan L., highlighting the importance of managing pets around water areas.
Camping near historical CCC sites: Some campgrounds preserve Civilian Conservation Corps history. "The campground was part of the Civilian Conservation Corp camp. It's remote and off the beaten path. A small campground with only 8 spots, some big enough for RVs," writes Patti M. about her experience at Berryman Trail Campground.
What campers like
Natural water features: The clear streams throughout the region provide cooling spots for horses and riders. At Brazil Creek, "a crystal clear steam just deep enough to dangle your tired legs in or sit your saddle sore body in the ice cold water" is available according to Shelly S., who calls the site "Creme De'la Creme" for horse owners.
Separate camping areas: Bass' River Resort and other campgrounds often divide their spaces into designated quiet and active sections. "They even have designated quiet and loud areas right on the water," explains ML W., which helps ensure riders seeking rest after trail days aren't disturbed by more social campers.
Trail variety: The region offers trails suitable for different experience levels. DiveSyke noted at Brazil Creek that "This camp site is along the berryman trail so you can stay here if you're backpacking said trail... They also have several hitching posts for horses here since you can ride horses on berryman trail."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Spring and fall typically offer the best riding weather, with fewer insects and moderate temperatures. Summer visits require preparation for heat and bugs. "The bugs here were a little worse than average, but not so much that I didn't get to enjoy myself," notes Tommy S. about Berryman Trail Campground.
Limited amenities at primitive sites: Several horse camps have minimal facilities. At Brazil Creek Camping Area, "No Verizon signal. Bathroom available. Nice secluded area," reports Alexis M., highlighting the tradeoff between solitude and conveniences.
Cell service limitations: Most primitive camping areas have poor or nonexistent coverage. DiveSyke mentions at Brazil Creek, "I have at&t and i've been getting 1 to 3 bars. But the other person im camping withuisnt grtting anything with their provider."
Tips for camping with families
Look for additional activities: Choose campgrounds with options beyond riding. At Blue Spring Ranch, Leslie G. reports, "We have children in tow, and love all of the amenities. We park close to the creek, we drive to the Meramec River and sometimes enjoy petting a horse or goat. Last year we zip lined."
Consider nearby attractions: State parks and other points of interest can supplement your horse camping experience. "It's close to the caverns and other awesome sites. Clean shower houses and a pool cap off the nice experience," adds Leslie G. about Blue Spring Ranch.
Ask about family-specific areas: Many campgrounds separate quieter family areas from more active zones. At Ozark Outdoors-Riverfront Resort, Jess Z. notes, "Huge campground with a family side and a late night side. Lots of updates in the last 15 years."
Tips from RVers
Reserve large sites in advance: Horse trailer accommodations require extra space. At Huzzah Valley Resort, Mallory C. shares, "They originally booked us for a tiny camping lot, and were awesome to find a larger spot for our group upon arrival."
Check site configuration: Sites designed specifically for horse trailers offer better layouts. Joy F. from Ozark Outdoors-Riverfront Resort explains, "We enjoyed the buddy sites so that our front doors faced our friends and the hookups were on the outside of each campsite. They also had group buddy sites that allowed four rigs to all front doors to face each other all being pull through sites."
Verify leveling requirements: Some sites may require significant leveling efforts. One camper at Ozark Outdoors noted, "The campsite was so unlevel my 1 year old couldnt even stand outside the camper without falling."
