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.
What to do
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.
What campers like
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.
What you should know
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.
Tips for camping with families
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.
Tips from RVers
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.
