1 campground with availability this weekend
Based on the available campground data near St. James, Missouri, no dedicated equestrian facilities are present among the listed campgrounds. None of the campgrounds in the data set feature horse corrals or explicitly state they accommodate horses. Brazil Creek Camping Area offers dispersed camping options with toilets and accommodates both tent and RV campers. Nearby established campgrounds like Berryman Trail Campgrounds in Mark Twain National Forest provide primitive camping options with picnic tables and toilets, but no specific horse facilities are mentioned in the data.
Trails in the area include the Berryman Trail, which may be suitable for day riding but lacks horse-specific amenities at the campgrounds. Visitors planning to camp with horses near St. James should contact campgrounds directly to inquire about horse policies, as the data shows several campgrounds that permit pets but doesn't specifically address equine accommodations. The primitive nature of Brazil Creek and Berryman Trail campgrounds means equestrians would need to bring water for their horses and plan for appropriate containment methods, as dedicated corrals or high-lines aren't mentioned in the facility listings.
"Positives: quiet time starting at 11:00 pm, we didn’t hear cursing, loud music, or anything else that disturbs little ones once they go to sleep, close to the river, clean restroom and shower house, shaded"
"They have a family section if you prefer to be away from the louder bunch."
"This go around we pulled our popup down and chose a site with out hookups. (545) only negative things to say about the site was that it was very densely populated with trees."
from $11 - $16 / night
"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 .""We took a couples float during the week to get away from our busy lives and relax. The huzzah resort is always top notch."
"It's remote and off the beaten path. A small campground with only 8 spots, some big enough for RVs. No hook ups or water. Pack it in and pack it out. Each site had enough space from each other."
"Pavillion, parking and horse tie out area adjacent trailhead. Excellent place to bring the kids if you want to unplug them from the media world. Trails and bugs and things that go bump in the night."
from $8 - $15 / 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."
"This is really the gem of Missouri state parks. Rv sites are all full 30/50 amp with water and sewer. All spots have plenty of room but are back in. The pads are perfectly level and are concrete."
"Went here hoping to see the wild horses. We didn't see any but still loved this park. Nice hiking trails and clean cool creek to splash in. Will go back again and maybe see the wild horses next time."
Available this weekend
from $12 - $27 / night
"Miles and miles of trails for Mountain Biking, horse riding or just hiking, and you can ride your ATV on the roads but you need an orange triangle."
"Good access to the Berryman Trail. There is a creek running along the camping area with a road along the opposite side. Park for the day or camp overnight to get an early start."
"This camp site is along the berryman trail so you can stay here if youre backpacking said trail."
"Primitive horse sites in your own little haven in the woods. Have an actual map handy and make any calls before you get here because your phone will do you no good."
"Enjoyed my stay and hikes on the equestrian trails. At the time no horses were around, only other tent campers, one of which gave me their extra camp wood."
"This site was probably my favorite one in Missouri so far. Has a few sites that are great for groups. Then a few sites that are more private for solo/family camps."
"Nothing but icadas, crickets and quiet laughter from the camp next to us."
"I was right next to the river, and the sounds of the water made everything tranquil. There is a ton of space for tents and RVs, and the road in is well paved."
from $5 - $100 / night
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
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.
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!
LegendThe campground is very new and modern. Not too many trees though. Great hiking, biking, and boating. There is a hotel, restaurant, and cabins for rent. Food is good at the restaurant. Watch for the wild horses! This is great for any size rig and beautiful walk in tent sites on platforms.
LegendWhat's more to love? It has paved spots, great amenities, cool spring water, cabins, a lodge and gorgeous scenery.
ScoutDecided to visit with family(wife, teenage daughter, and 76 y.o. father) this Saturday afternoon, after completing a peaceful hike at Onandoga S.P., to consider camping later in the week. We politely, respectfully drove into the campground on the MAIN LOOP, around 5-10 mph, and checked the condition of the campsites. We noticed a few other campers present throughout the campground. Our windows were rolled down. Near the primitive campsites, a white vehicle rapidly, aggressively approached us from the left, rear of our car. Horn blaring. RECKLESSLY drove right up onto our rear bumper, then swerved to the left to try to force us over. The man rapidly approached us from his vehicle and accosted us with multiple, rapid fire questions what we were doing and why we were there. WHILE HE WAS AGGRESSIVELY INTERROGATING US, HE WAS CROUCHED FORWARD, POSTURING THAT HE WAS PREPARED TO DRAW ON US. I COULD CLEARLY SEE HIS LEFT HAND ON A FIREARM IN HIS LEFT POCKET- the handle of the firearm was clearly visible. The silhouette of the gun was clearly visible in his left pants pocket. Any reasonably intelligent person would have seen as we drove at a near walking pace on the main loop that we were not there to cause any problems. Any REMOTELY INTELLIGENT person would have instantly realized that we were just a family checking out potential campsites. Any reasonable person would have also considered this RECKLESS ACT OF AGGRESSION as a threat on their family. I was concerned for the safely of my family and myself. An embarrassing act of overreach. The"security guard" identified himself as"Dave." We will NEVER give this place our business again. I will NEVER risk taking my family here again. This place probably does not want your family here either...
ScoutIt's a nice lil place to camp but the camp sites r not that big
RangerIt's a free place to park and stand the night. The campground does not have any water, grey dump, or garbage. So it is primitive camping.
There are lots of insects that will attack you on your walk, too...
ScoutThis "resort" is just a basic campground. There's no place to dump your camper's tank, which you'd expect at the prices they charge. The owner is in some sort of a feud with the residents that live around the campground, so now one of them fires a shotgun off every half hour, and another one blasts revelry early in the morning. Nothing scary, but I didn't like knowing that we were right next to residents...certainly wouldn't want a campground in my back yard.
Otherwise, it's mediocre. Depending on the time of year, the river can be quite low, so be sure to check the forecast before planning a stay. It was only about 6 inches deep when I was there. The Gasconade Hills campground is just down the road and was a much better experience.
Camping options near St. James, Missouri offer varied experiences in the Ozark highlands, with elevations ranging from 800-1,200 feet. The area features diverse terrain including pine forests, natural springs, and clear creeks. Primitive and established campgrounds throughout Mark Twain National Forest provide access to recreation while requiring campers to prepare for limited services.
Trail riding opportunities: While dedicated horse camping facilities are limited, the Mark Twain National Forest provides trail riding options. The Berryman Trail offers access points that day riders appreciate. According to one visitor at Berryman Trail & Campgrounds, "We stayed here with the Boy Scouts for Fall Camporee. The boys all loved it. There's a river nearby with a rocky beach to keep the kids busy."
Float trips: The Meramec River and surrounding creeks offer popular floating experiences. At Bass' River Resort, one camper shared, "We pulled our popup down and chose a site without hookups. This site is right on the gravel bar and about 100 ft from waters edge. Great for relaxing and having a 'beverage' while watching the floaters figure out life."
Cave exploration: Several limestone caves are accessible near camping areas. As one visitor at Ozark Outdoors-Riverfront Resort noted, "Nearby is Onondaga Cave which is a nice experience especially when it is blazing hot outside."
Creek access: Many campers value direct water access for cooling off. A visitor at Huzzah Valley Resort shared, "It was awesome to be camped right on the creek and take a half way break at camp for lunch before finishing the float. Seemed to be a well run and kept place!"
Dispersed camping options: For those seeking solitude, Brazil Creek Camping Area offers free sites with minimal amenities. One camper reported, "Stayed 1 night and it was very enjoyable. Clean bathroom. Pretty creek right behind campsite. Enjoyable walking trails."
Variety of accommodations: Most recreation areas offer flexibility in camping styles. At Bass' River Resort, a reviewer noted, "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."
Limited equestrian facilities: While several trails permit horseback riding, specific horse camping areas with corrals are scarce near St. James. Hazel Creek Campground offers primitive camping that some equestrians use. A visitor mentioned, "Enjoyed my stay and hikes on the equestrian trails. At the time no horses were around, only other tent campers."
Seasonal considerations: Late spring through early fall offers optimal camping conditions. Some sites close facilities during winter months. Water levels in creeks fluctuate seasonally, affecting activities.
Crowding during peak times: Popular campgrounds fill quickly during summer weekends. A camper at Paddy Creek Recreation Area noted, "We were surprised with how many sites were taken up, but there were still quite a few available. Arrive early for a good spot."
Choosing family-friendly sections: Some campgrounds designate specific areas for quieter family camping. A visitor at Huzzah Valley Resort explained, "They have a family side and a party side (the zoo). Don't expect to get much rest in the zoo."
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near St. James, MO?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near St. James, MO is Ozark Outdoors-Riverfront Resort with a 4-star rating from 22 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near St. James, MO?
TheDyrt.com has all 15 equestrian camping locations near St. James, MO, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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