Tent camping near St. James, Missouri offers opportunities along scenic waterways within the Mark Twain National Forest region. Most sites lack amenities and require visitors to bring essential supplies. The terrain features rolling Ozark hills with elevations ranging from 700-1,100 feet, with summer temperatures typically reaching 85-95°F and frequent afternoon thunderstorms possible from June through August.
What to do
Fishing access points: Brazil Creek provides good spots for both fly fishing and cast fishing. According to a camper at Brazil Creek, "The camp is right by the creek which is ice cold and good for sticking sore feet in. There are also a few fish in there."
Hiking opportunities: Brazil Creek serves as an access point to the Berryman Trail, popular with backpackers. One visitor notes, "This camp site is along the berryman trail so you can stay here if youre backpacking said trail."
Swimming and cooling off: Many sites offer creek access for summer relief. At Fredericksburg Ferry Access, a camper describes, "Sign reads 'no swimming' but there's a nice gravel bar just downstream from the ramp. If you enter the water, be mindful that boats may pass as you try to cross."
What campers like
Quiet seclusion: Remote locations provide peace away from urban areas. A camper at Paydown Access reports, "Camped here in early March. Beautiful, very secluded, and we were the only ones there."
Level tent sites: Several locations feature flat ground ideal for tent setup. At Cedar Grove, a visitor appreciated it as a "nice Scenic remote area, good for wading and trout fishing. It is also a beautiful place to float with the family."
Star visibility: Clear night skies allow for astronomical viewing. A camper at Fredericksburg Ferry Access shared, "Lots of trees but still great stargazing at night. We even saw a few meteors!"
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to remote sites can be challenging after rain. A visitor to Courtois Creek Dispersed advises, "I drive a Toyota Highlander and I did the road with no problem. It is not an ATV trail! There was 1 big puddle and 1 sharp rocky turn that I just went slow through."
Water crossings: Some swimming areas require navigating currents. One camper at Fredericksburg Ferry Access cautions, "The swim there requires crossing a moderately sized river that is relatively swift. This is fine for people who swim well but not recommended for young children or weak swimmers especially without flotation devices."
Emergency preparations: Cell service is limited or nonexistent at most sites. A Brazil Creek visitor warns, "Just make sure you look at a map before going there as there is absolutely no reception."
Tips for camping with families
Water safety awareness: Gasconade River crossings require supervision. A Fredericksburg Ferry Access camper advises, "It's a wider and quick river, so we had to help our dog across. Took 5-7 min there and 15 to get back."
Supply planning: Stock up before arrival as stores are distant. One camper at Fredericksburg Ferry Access noted, "45m to nearest Walmart or tractor supply, so plan ahead. Food, fire starter logs, and lighter fuel available at Thriftway (about 30 min)."
Site selection: Choose established sites for easier setup with children. At Water Mountain, a camper appreciated the "Lots of open space to camp and plenty of area to hike or use an ATV. Also it's on the river which is nice!"
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most primitive sites accommodate smaller rigs only. At Brazil Creek, a visitor explains it's "a bare bones campground, located in Mark Twain National Forest, it has a place for you to camp and a fire pit, that's it."
Road clearance concerns: Approach roads may challenge larger vehicles. A Courtois Creek camper noted, "Probably couldn't do it towing a camper though."
Facilities planning: No hookups available at most locations. A Brazil Creek camper advised, "This is what we call a remote or backwoods site in Ky and can be had through contacting the visitors center in the area for explanation of permit."
