Perryville, Missouri sits at an elevation of around 500 feet in Missouri's eastern region where limestone bluffs and rolling hills characterize the terrain. The area experiences typical Midwestern seasonal fluctuations with hot, humid summers when temperatures regularly exceed 90°F and mild winters that occasionally dip below freezing. Camping locations near Perryville offer varied terrain options from riverside spots along the St. Francois River to densely wooded sites in the Mark Twain National Forest.
What to do
River activities: Explore the St. Francois River at Sam A. Baker State Park, located about 30 miles southwest of Perryville. The park provides easy access to water recreation. As one visitor noted, "Great place for kids. You can sit in the cool clear water and relax. Great place for kids. Park is well maintained" (Kevin B.).
Hiking: Tackle the trail system around Hawn State Park Campground, where trails range from easy walking paths to more rugged terrain. "The hiking in this state park is fantastic. The campground is small but well maintained. The eco-system is something to marvel," shared one hiker (Chad K.).
Fishing opportunities: Cast a line at Crab Orchard Lake. The lake supports multiple fish species and offers shoreline access. According to a reviewer, "Fishing was good (especially catfish and crappie)" (Tracie E.).
Swimming: Cool off in natural water features at Marble Creek Rec Area. One camper shared, "You can spend the day floating in the river or swimming near the little shut-ins watering hole" (Shannon B.).
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Hawn State Park Campground, campers appreciate the layout. "Small park as far as the amount of campsites, but this makes it peaceful and secluded. Great restrooms/showers. Great hikes," one visitor reported (Jenny H.).
Campsite proximity to water: Many Marble Creek Rec Area campsites offer direct water access. A camper explains, "The campground is beautiful and the sites are spaced apart so that you don't feel like you're camping on top of your neighbors. We were able to camp right next to the creek and it was amazing" (Mara F.).
Family-friendly amenities: The Perryville RV Resort By Rjourney offers numerous features for families. "Very well kept and clean campground. Great big trees, very shaded, great store. Decorated for Halloween and very kid friendly. Spots are tight (wouldn't want to be here when the park is full). Nice park for kids, hiking trail and jump pad (trampoline)" (Never Sitting S.).
Shaded sites: Many campgrounds in the area feature mature trees. "Such a clean campground!! There are a ton of big trees and it is really shady. We love our time here," shared one Perryville RV Resort visitor (Megan T.).
What you should know
Seasonal crowds: Summer weekends bring significant crowds to water destinations. At Huzzah Valley, a camper warned, "If you are just looking for a fun float and party atmosphere this is a great place. great for large groups" (Teresa B.).
Highway noise considerations: Some campgrounds near major roads experience traffic noise. One Perryville camper noted, "The draw backs for us were how close it was to the interstate, and the fact that it's just not what we're used to when camping" (Christopher B.).
Limited facilities at primitive sites: Some locations have minimal amenities. At Marble Creek, "Vault toilets are usually clean and not too buggy. It appears to not have any water taps though, so bring your own!" (Shannon B.).
Weather variability: The region experiences rapid weather changes. During summer, temperatures regularly reach 90°F with high humidity, while spring can bring significant rainfall and occasional flooding.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water spots: Sam A. Baker State Park Campground offers safer water areas for children. "Beautiful camp sites and a beautiful river to paddle around on. This park usually isn't very crowded which is really nice. It is very tranquil and perfect for a weekend get away," shared one family (Charlotte B.).
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. As one Perryville visitor mentioned, "It has a pool, playgrounds, a pond, and some tiny home type cabins that look like fun" (Christopher B.).
Premium glamping options: For families seeking upgraded camping close to Perryville, Missouri, consider climate-controlled accommodations. Fredrock Glampground offers unique glamping units, while Huzzah Valley provides yurt options for families wanting comfort with outdoor access.
Pack for temperature shifts: Spring and fall camping requires layered clothing as temperatures can drop significantly overnight, sometimes by 30°F or more.
Tips from RVers
Site size considerations: Giant City State Park Campground accommodates larger vehicles, but site dimensions vary. "There are currently 25 equestrian camp sites in this park in a different area than the normal RV and Tent campground. The campground is being upgraded this year in which I belive they are adding 50 amp full service to many of the electric only sites" (Michael M.).
Electric hookup availability: Not all campgrounds offer full hookups. At St. Francois State Park Campground, "The campground has oddly shaped campsites causing a crowded feel" (Cody S.).
Dump station locations: Plan ahead for waste disposal. Crab Orchard Lake provides sanitary dump stations, but many smaller campgrounds do not offer this service.
Reservation timing: During peak season (May-September), secure RV sites well in advance, especially at popular destinations like Perryville RV Resort, which often fills on weekends.
