4 campgrounds with availability this weekend
Several glamping options cluster around the Steelville area within 20-30 minutes of St. James, Missouri. Indian Springs Resort and Campground offers safari tents and premium glamping options with easy access to the Meramec River for floating activities. These accommodations provide comfortable sleeping arrangements, electricity, and proximity to resort amenities. A recent visitor mentioned, "We found a large sandy beach with natural swimming holes, plus a seasonal pool. There's even so-so wifi at the store." Garrison Canoe Rental and Campground features glamping sites with river views, while Huzzah Valley Resort provides upscale canvas accommodations with electric hookups and climate control features. These sites typically include furnished interiors, proper beds, and access to modern bathroom facilities with hot showers.
The glamping experience in this Ozark region centers around river recreation and natural surroundings. Meramec Caverns Natural Campground maintains glamping sites near its famous cave system, combining outdoor comfort with underground exploration opportunities. Bass' River Resort offers yurt accommodations with sturdy walls, comfortable bedding, and electricity that bridge the gap between camping and cabin stays. According to one camper, "This has actually become one of our favorite established sites in the Ozarks with tons of games like volleyball and horseshoes, plus onsite programs including scavenger hunts and movie nights." Most glamping facilities in the area provide rental services for canoes, rafts, and tubes, allowing guests to enjoy the region's clear Ozark streams without bringing their own equipment. Peak season runs April through October, with most sites requiring advance reservations during summer weekends.
"Full hookups(electric/water/sewer) for rvs, as well as primitive tent sites. Facilities are bit on the older side, but 2 shower houses are available. River access within walking distance."
"This location has been a constant location visited over the last ten years for an annual float trip with my friends."
"family-oriented (probably not for you if you want to party), with tons of games like volleyball and horseshoes, plus onsite programs and activities including scavenger hunts, movie nights, pancake breakfasts"
"Friendly staff. 25 cent showers. Showers clean and hot. Fun place."
"The camp area looks new, cute playground, small fenced dog park type area, showers, laundry, fire pits and picnic tables. Very little trees or grass."
"Good area only a mile off the highway so it made a great night stopping point. Had great access for our starlink. They have a little dog park, kids park, and it was all clean and well maintained."
from $25 - $55 / night
"A little road noise but otherwise nice. We arrived on Sunday and only a few people camping other than us. Nice clean cool Creek. Was pretty hot when we arrived,so nice to have."
"The campground is in the middle of a forest with a large creek running around it. It was springtime and everything was so green, there were wildflowers popping up all over the place."
"The main office had everything you would ever need even pizza delivery I didnt use it but it's an awesome idea."
"This was a great campsite with water and electric hookups. We tent camped and floated the 6 mile float. Bathrooms we're clean and we'll maintained. Showers needed quarters to operate."
from $11 - $16 / night
"They originally booked us for a tiny camping lot, and were awesome to find a larger spot for our group upon arrival. We rented one of the pavilions as well."
"One we used, and many other we saw, had small trees outlining the edges of the sites.
We had a group of people next to use who were very loud on Friday evening until past midnight ."
"Because we wanted air conditioning, we opted for the lower sites near the river. We camped at site# 28 and it was just right. We were not on the river but close enough to hear it."
"Shaded, grassy, and very private except for the occasional visitors who drive up the road to see the overlook near these two campsites."
Campground full this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $15 - $50 / night
"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."
"Montauk State Park is one of the Missouri Conservations four trout parks, and is located at the headwaters of the beautiful Current River."
Available this weekend
from $14 - $46 / night
"They had hot showers and bathroom which is always a plus. There was a little trash at the site but nothing bad. We had a ton of room between us and others. We could choose our site."
"The staff was very friendly and helpful. Check-in was very easy and we were met at the gate. They drove us over to our spot and brought us over a firepit."
from $23 - $38 / night
"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. It’s close to the caverns and other awesome sites."
"It's up by the cabins/cottages and you definitely need to drive there. Get there early in the morning to set up your chairs in the river to get a good spot."
TravelerIt’s fun to see the animals. I was happy they have an outdoor shower because I needed it when I got here. I’d say the only down side is the animals roam so there is a lot of poop. Wouldn’t want to wander at night.
GuideSuper clean campground. The host is really welcoming and answers any questions you have. Some amazing views of you pick the right spot.
TravelerThe 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
LegendA little road noise but otherwise nice. We arrived on Sunday and only a few people camping other than us. Nice clean cool Creek. Was pretty hot when we arrived,so nice to have.
RangerThis is a decent campground to stay for free. There is a pit toilet. There was only one picnic table and not many defined spots but I think you can pull up in the grass wherever you like. It's right at a trailhead. I started to walk the trail but couldn't find it when it crossed the road. The roads are good getting here. The campground road has a few pot holes, but nothing too bad. I would come back here and look for nearby hiking.
ScoutWe were there on a Friday of 4th of July weekend. We used the day-use area but drove though the campground loops to check it out first. Campground was not full, even on a holiday weekend, sites are spread out, and we will definitely come back for camping. Very peaceful.
Day use area was well maintained, easy path to spring, and river access just past the spring. Plenty of tables and grills. Lovely in the evening with the fog creeping up the river!
TravelerNice spot on our way to the east coast. Right off the highway with full hookups and a great staff
TravelerAs 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!
ScoutRoger 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.
The Ozark region near St. James, Missouri offers extensive camping opportunities in an area characterized by limestone formations, spring-fed waterways, and elevations ranging from 700 to 1,500 feet. Temperature swings between seasons are significant, with summer highs regularly reaching 90°F while maintaining cooler 60-70°F morning temperatures. Campgrounds in this region frequently experience capacity booking from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
River floating excursions: 4-6 mile routes available at Garrison Canoe Rental and Campground for $20 per person. This outfitter provides various floating options ranging from 4-hour to all-day trips. "Showed up late for a float trip. They were very accommodating for our group. We rented the new tubes they carry. They were very comfortable with back support and pillow when you're leaning back. 20 bucks for a 4 hour float, ya can't beat it!" reports Richard C.
Cave exploration: Underground tours available daily at Meramec Caverns Natural Campground with admission fees ranging from $15-25 per person. The guided tours last approximately 80 minutes and cover about 1.25 miles through the cave system. While providing a break from summer heat, these tours require moderate walking ability. "Cave makes for a nice cool break from the heat," notes Linda S., making it an ideal afternoon activity during summer camping trips.
Horseback trail rides: Available at select outfitters with average rates of $45 per hour. Several campgrounds can arrange trail rides through local providers, with most requiring 24-hour advance booking. The rides typically follow moderate forest trails with creek crossings. "We have children in tow, and love all of the amenities... sometimes enjoy petting a horse or goat. Last year we zip lined," shares Leslie G. about her family's experience at Blue Springs Ranch.
Private river access: Red Bluff Campground offers direct access to Huzzah Creek with swimming areas. Campers appreciate the natural swimming holes located steps from select campsites. "This site was completely shaded, primitive, a mix of rocky and grassy and mostly level... There are two vault toilets, one in the center of the loop and the other down the path in the picture," explains Gwenn W. about site 21, noting its proximity to water access.
Themed weekend events: Several glamping locations near St. James host holiday-themed camping weekends. These special events often include organized activities, decorating contests, and community meals. "4th of July and Halloween are our favorites. There is no cell service but basic WiFi is free 1 hour at a time and this year we have noticed a major upgrade to their system!" mentions Erin G. about Blue Springs Ranch's popular themed weekends.
Diverse accommodation options: Bass' River Resort provides yurt rentals alongside traditional camping. The yurts offer structural advantages over tent camping while maintaining an outdoor experience. "This place has something for everyone, whether you're a tent, rv or cabin camper. They even have designated quiet and loud areas right on the water," shares ML W., highlighting the range of camping experiences available at a single location.
Limited connectivity: Cell service ranges from spotty to nonexistent at most locations. Some campgrounds offer paid WiFi access, but coverage and reliability vary significantly. "There is no cell service but basic WiFi is free 1 hour at a time and this year we have noticed a major upgrade to their system!" notes Erin G. about connectivity limitations at one location.
Flash flood potential: River-adjacent sites may require evacuation during heavy rains. Most campgrounds post flood level indicators and maintain evacuation protocols. "It rained on us all weekend and I tried not to freak out because this area is known for flash floods (that's why it's so rocky)," explains Gwenn W. about conditions at Red Bluff Campground.
Shower facilities: Pay showers common at $0.50 for 5-minute intervals. Most established campgrounds maintain shower facilities, though quality and cleanliness vary. "Showers needed quarters to operate. Nice restaurant for breakfast and a great store," reports Donna H. about facilities at Bass' River Resort.
River safety precautions: Water depths change suddenly in local streams. Parents should supervise children closely around water areas due to unpredictable depth changes. "You have to be careful because there are sudden drop-offs, it can be two feet deep and then you take a few steps and it's seven feet deep," warns Gwenn W. about Huzzah Creek's variable depths.
Kid-friendly programming: Lane Spring Recreation Area offers natural exploration opportunities for children. This less-developed area provides space for nature discovery with minimal crowds. "I stayed the night here in late April, and it was absolutely gorgeous. The campground is in the middle of a forest with a large creek running around it... there were wildflowers popping up all over the place," describes Erin about the family-friendly setting.
Designated quiet and party areas: Request specific camping sections based on family needs. Many glamping facilities near St. James separate party-oriented camping from family-quiet zones. "They have a family side and a party side (the zoo). Don't expect to get much rest in the zoo," advises Joseph A. about the distinct camping sections at Huzzah Valley Resort.
Pull-through accessibility: Doolittle Acres RV Park and Campground offers easy access sites for larger rigs. Located approximately 15 miles from St. James, this facility provides convenient highway proximity. "Very small park but easily navigable. We had a great spot, for our 42' motorhome and truck. It was a pull through and easy to get into," shares Roxanna L. about the RV-friendly layout.
Highway noise considerations: Sites closer to main roads experience consistent traffic sound. RVers sensitive to noise should request sites furthest from highways. "Since it's close the highway it was a little loud with traffic. 57$ a night for premium spots, 42$ a night for non premium," notes Kelsey S. about the noise trade-off at sites with easier access.
Weekend reservation requirements: Book sites 3-4 months in advance for summer weekends. Prime RV sites with full hookups fill quickly, especially at Montauk State Park Campground during fishing season. "The campgrounds and cabins can be a bit difficult to book, if visiting on a Friday or Saturday, but the park is worth it," advises Jesse C. regarding reservation planning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular glamping campsite near St. James, MO?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular glamping campground near St. James, MO is Garrison Canoe Rental and Campground with a 4.3-star rating from 12 reviews.
What is the best site to find glamping camping near St. James, MO?
TheDyrt.com has all 25 glamping camping locations near St. James, MO, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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