Camping sites near Rolla, Missouri offer a variety of experiences within the Ozark highlands, with elevations ranging from 900-1,200 feet throughout the region. Summer temperatures typically reach 95°F during July and August, while spring brings frequent thunderstorms to the area. Most campgrounds remain accessible from April through October, with primitive sites available in Mark Twain National Forest during off-season months.
What to do
Trout fishing access: Lane Spring Recreation Area provides direct access to Little Piney Creek, a designated wild trout stream. "The campground is situated along the little Piney River which offers good fishing for wild rainbow trout. There is also a good swimming hole for the warmer months," according to Marty C., who visited this Mark Twain National Forest site.
Cave exploration: Onondaga Cave State Park offers guided underground tours approximately 90 minutes in length. "The Onondaga Cave is a bit pricey to see but it's well worth it, one of the larger caves you can do a walking tour with well maintained and careful paths, lighting etc.," notes Julia M. who camped at Onondaga Cave State Park Campground with children. "We toured with a 4month old in a baby harness, two 6 year olds and a 9 year old."
River floating: Several outfitters provide equipment and shuttle services for float trips on the Meramec, Gasconade, and Big Piney rivers. "We got out of our boat and walked up the bank to our camp site," explains Cathy S. after floating at Boiling Springs Campground. "Bus picked us up there and dropped us at a location on the gasconade. Float ended right back at camp!"
What campers like
Direct water access: Campsites with river frontage allow for fishing and swimming without driving. "Our camp site was right on the river with a beautiful view of the spring," reports Aundrea from Boiling Springs Campground. "The staff is extremely welcoming and makes you feel right at home. We did a 5 mile float which was the perfect length and very scenic."
Historic attractions: Local campgrounds provide convenient access to regional historic sites. "The park contains the fifth largest spring in the state. An average of 100 million gallons of water flows from the Spring daily," writes Joel R. about Maramec Spring Park. "The park has a country store, and a museum with the remains of an old iron furnace."
Affordable base camps: Budget-conscious travelers appreciate Haven Hollow RV Park for its reasonable rates and central location. "Late in the day booking, hosts were very responsive by text & e-mail. $30 overnight w/ full hookups," reports Annaliese M. The campground includes "great trails around pond, meadow/field & creek" despite its small size and limited amenities.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies significantly across the region, especially in valleys and forested areas. "WiFi wasn't very good and cell was spotty even with the booster," notes Deborah C. about Haven Hollow RV Park. "No showers or toilets on site so you need to be self-contained."
Highway noise proximity: Campgrounds near Interstate 44 and major highways experience traffic noise. "The campground sits next to a state numbered highway, so access is easy. Don't expect a remote setting. The highway traffic can be distracting if you're used to camping in the woods," explains Mike G. about Ozark Farms Family Campground.
Flood potential: Low-lying campgrounds along rivers can experience rapid water level changes. "The campground is subject to flash flooding," warns Joel R. at Maramec Spring Park. "There are places where the creek runs over the road a little, so that might cause issues if there's heavy rain in the forecast," cautions Erin about Lane Spring Recreation Area.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Natural swimming holes provide kid-friendly water access at many campgrounds. "Crystal clear water that's fun for kids and adults. Really interesting things to do and see in the park," reports Joel H. from Maramec Spring Park. "Not too hot in the summer. We went 2 summers ago and my kids still talk about it."
Hiking trails: Most campgrounds offer easy walking paths suitable for children. "There was tons of shade and trails for hiking, biking, and exploring," explains Amanda R. about Maramec Spring Park. "The river was fun to play in and we floated one day while we were there too. Lots of places to stop and play on the river."
Campground activities: Some locations organize structured recreational opportunities. "It's VERY family-oriented with tons of games like volleyball and horseshoes, plus onsite programs and activities including scavenger hunts, movie nights, pancake breakfasts," writes Taryn S. about Indian Springs Resort near Steelville.
Tips from RVers
Site size considerations: Many campgrounds have limited space for larger rigs. "The sites support about a 40' rig with some able to support up to 42' max," explains MickandKarla W. about Haven Hollow RV Park. "When you make your reservation they will confirm the length of your rig and put you in the appropriate site as there's a small berm behind the sites that allow you to back further in on some sites than others."
Road access evaluation: Secondary roads to some campgrounds require careful navigation. "The last 1.5 miles is gravel and it was a little dusty coming in," cautions MickandKarla W. "Once we got to this small CG with 8 back-in sites, we were delighted on how nice Haven Hollow was set up."
Utility details: Water pressure and electrical service vary between locations. "Sites are back-in with a coarse gravel pad," notes Mike G. about Ozark Farms Family Campground. "The water pressure is low, about 40 psi," adds Bill B. who also stayed at Ozark Farms.
